Senior Ecologist - Biodiversity Conservation

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

Professional development opportunities

Conference participation

Travel to project sites

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead biodiversity conservation projects. The role involves designing ecological surveys, analyzing biodiversity data, and developing evidence-based conservation strategies.

Travel to field sites, including Queenstown, NZ, will be required, with a strong emphasis on independent project leadership and rigorous scientific research. The ideal candidate holds a PhD with 6+ years postdoctoral experience, excels in statistics and GIS, and can engage

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in ecology or related field with post-doctoral experience in ecological assessment and biodiversity conservation.
• Experience designing and conducting field surveys and ecological monitoring programs.
• Strong analytical skills using statistical software and GIS tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and lead remote and field teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of ecological research projects focused on biodiversity and conservation.
• Conduct field surveys to collect data on flora, fauna, and habitats.
• Analyze complex ecological datasets with statistical software and GIS.
• Develop evidence-based conservation strategies and management plans.
• Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and local communities.
• Prepare scientific reports, peer-reviewed papers, and grant proposals.
• Stay updated on ecological research, conservation science, and legislation.
• Mentor junior ecologists and research assistants; manage budgets and logistics.

Skills

Field surveys & ecological monitoring

Data analysis & statistics

GIS & spatial analysis

Scientific writing & publications

Stakeholder engagement

Project management

Molecular biodiversity techniques (e.g

Education

Ph.D. in Ecology, Zoology, Botany, Environmental Science, or related field

Tools

R

SPSS

ArcGIS

QGIS

eDNA

Metabarcoding

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected environmental research organization, is actively seeking a Senior Ecologist to lead critical projects in biodiversity conservation. This role, while primarily remote, will involve periodic travel to field sites, including those around Queenstown, Eastern Cape. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive ecological surveys, analyzing biodiversity data, and developing evidence-based conservation strategies. This position is ideal for a seasoned ecologist with a passion for fieldwork, robust analytical skills, and a deep commitment to protecting natural ecosystems. You will play a pivotal role in influencing conservation policies and practices through rigorous scientific research. We are looking for an independent researcher who can manage projects from inception to completion.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of ecological research projects focused on biodiversity assessment and conservation.
• Conduct field surveys to collect data on flora, fauna, and habitat characteristics.
• Analyze complex ecological datasets using statistical software and GIS tools.
• Develop and recommend evidence-based conservation strategies and management plans.
• Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and local communities on conservation initiatives.
• Prepare high-quality scientific reports, peer-reviewed publications, and grant proposals.
• Stay current with advancements in ecological research, conservation science, and relevant legislation.
• Mentor junior ecologists and research assistants, providing guidance and technical support.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and logistical aspects of fieldwork.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Ecology, Zoology, Botany, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral research experience in ecological assessment and biodiversity conservation.
• Extensive experience in designing and conducting field surveys and ecological monitoring programs.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SPSS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS).
• Strong understanding of ecological principles, population dynamics, and conservation biology.
• Experience with molecular techniques for biodiversity assessment (e.g., eDNA, metabarcoding) is an advantage.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and lead remote and field teams.
• Willingness to travel to field sites as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package tailored to attract top-tier scientific talent.
• Benefits include flexible working arrangements conducive to a remote role, opportunities for professional development and conference participation, and the chance to work on impactful conservation projects.
• While the role is primarily remote, occasional travel to project sites, including Queenstown, Eastern Cape, will be necessary.
• We provide a stimulating environment for researchers dedicated to making a tangible difference in biodiversity conservation globally.
• Join a team committed to science-led environmental stewardship.