Ecologist / Farm Manager

Kendrick Recruitment; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Live-in accommodation

Job summary

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an Ecologist / Farm Manager for a private concession in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve. The role fuses ecological stewardship with hands-on farm management to protect biodiversity and sustain land use.

You will lead conservation projects, supervise field staff, manage infrastructure and ensure safety and conservation compliance while balancing operational needs. This is a remote‑friendly, on‑site position with live‑in accommodation for the right candidate.

Qualifications

• Experience in ecology, conservation or farm management.
• Qualifications in Ecology or Environmental Science are advantageous.
• Knowledge of South African ecosystems and habitats.
• Experience in land, infrastructure or farm management.
• Strong organisational and reporting skills.
• Ability to manage staff and coordinate contractors.
• Good problem‑solving and independent work in a remote environment.
• Passion for wildlife conservation and sustainable land management.
• Good communication and teamwork.
• Valid driver’s license; off-road driving experience beneficial.
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather.

Responsibilities

• Oversee ecological management and conservation initiatives across the concession.
• Monitor wildlife populations, habitat conditions, biodiversity and ecosystem health.
• Assist with conservation management plans development and implementation.
• Conduct ecological assessments, field surveys and regular environmental monitoring.
• Maintain records and prepare reports on wildlife, vegetation, land management and conservation.
• Oversee maintenance of infrastructure, roads, fencing, water systems and grounds.
• Manage invasive species control, erosion prevention and habitat rehabilitation.
• Coordinate maintenance teams, contractors and field staff.

Skills

Ecology knowledge

Conservation management

Wildlife management

Farm management

Field surveys

Reporting

Staff management

Budget management

Safety compliance

Communication

Education

Ecology degree

Environmental Science degree

Conservation Management qualification

Job description

Ecologist / Farm Manager | Sabi Sand Nature Reserve | Private Concession

Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a knowledgeable and experienced Ecologist / Farm Manager for a private concession within the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual with a strong background in ecology, conservation and land management, combined with practical farm management experience and a passion for protecting and maintaining natural ecosystems.

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing ecological management, conservation initiatives and the day-to-day running of the property’s land and infrastructure. The role requires a hands‑on, organised and proactive individual who can balance environmental sustainability with operational efficiency while ensuring that the reserve is maintained to the highest standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee ecological management and conservation initiatives across the concession.
• Monitor wildlife populations, habitat conditions, biodiversity and general ecosystem health.
• Assist with the development and implementation of conservation management plans.
• Conduct ecological assessments, field surveys and regular environmental monitoring.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare reports relating to wildlife, vegetation, land management and conservation activities.
• Oversee the management and maintenance of the property’s infrastructure, roads, fencing, water systems and general grounds.
• Manage invasive plant control, erosion prevention, fire management and habitat rehabilitation initiatives.
• Coordinate maintenance teams, contractors and field staff to ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently.
• Assist with wildlife management activities and liaise with relevant conservation authorities and specialists where required.
• Ensure that environmental practices comply with applicable legislation, conservation guidelines and internal procedures.
• Manage equipment, supplies, resources and operational budgets effectively.
• Identify areas for improvement in ecological management, infrastructure maintenance and overall property operations.
• Maintain clear communication with management and provide regular updates on operational and conservation matters.
• Support sustainable land-use practices while preserving the natural environment and biodiversity of the reserve.
• Ensure that all work is conducted in accordance with health and safety requirements.

Requirements:

• Previous experience in ecology, conservation management, wildlife management, farm management or a similar role.
• A relevant qualification in Ecology, Environmental Science, Conservation Management, Nature Conservation, Agriculture or a related field would be advantageous.
• Practical knowledge of South African ecosystems, wildlife habitats, vegetation management and conservation practices.
• Experience in land, infrastructure or farm management, including maintenance planning and operational oversight.
• Strong organisational, administrative and reporting skills.
• The ability to manage staff, coordinate contractors and oversee day‑to‑day operational requirements.
• Good problem‑solving skills and the ability to work independently in a remote environment.
• Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• A genuine passion for wildlife conservation, environmental sustainability and responsible land management.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with management and field teams.
• A valid driver's licence is essential, and practical off-road driving experience would be advantageous.
• Flexibility to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and respond to operational requirements when necessary.

Salary: Negotiable, depending on experience.

Benefits: Live-in accommodation provided.

This is an excellent opportunity for a conservation-minded professional with practical management experience to contribute to the ecological sustainability and efficient operation of a prestigious private concession within the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve.