Seabird Rehabilitator

Sanccob; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading seabird conservation organization based in Cape Town is seeking a Seabird Rehabilitator to join their team. The role involves daily care and treatment of seabirds, training interns, and administrative duties. Ideal candidates will have a passion for conservation, experience in wildlife rehabilitation, and a relevant tertiary qualification. This is a full-time position with flexible working hours.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Opportunities for professional growth

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience in wildlife rehabilitation.
• Experience working according to standard operating procedures.
• Valid driver's license and passport.

Responsibilities

• Daily care and treatment of seabirds.
• Training and mentoring interns and volunteers.
• Administrative tasks and report writing.

Skills

Wildlife rehabilitation experience

Seabird handling skills

Decision-making skills

Planning and organizing skills

Education

Tertiary qualification in Biological Science

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Institution The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) Location Cape Town, Western Cape Job Title Seabird Rehabilitator Closing Date 1 November

Starting Date: ASAP Full-time / Part-time Full-time permanent position Work Hours: Given the nature of the work required, work hours are flexible from Monday to Sunday. Travel: Be willing and able to travel (domestic and international). SANCCOB is a leading seabird conservation non‑profit organisation which seeks to employ a hard‑working, compassionate Seabird Rehabilitator to join their energetic and dedicated team based in Cape Town on a full‑time basis.

The Seabird Rehabilitator will report directly to the Seabird Rehabilitation Manager and will be responsible for all aspects relating to seabird rescue, rehabilitation, and release.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual who thrives in a dynamic and purpose‑driven environment and is committed to advancing SANCCOB's mission of seabird conservation.

Key Responsibilities

• Daily care and treatment of various species of seabirds, including rostered after‑hours on‑call duties and emergency response.
• Ensure all protocols and standards are maintained at the highest level and are in accordance with SANCCOB's standard operating procedures.
• Cleaning of seabird enclosures, pools, and hospital areas.
• Maintenance of the facility, rehabilitation pens and pools.
• Training and mentoring interns, local and international volunteers working in the rehabilitation department.
• Training first responders and drivers to rescue, handle, stabilise and transport seabirds.
• Administrative tasks (report writing, detailed record keeping, stock control and orders).
• Assisting Clinical Veterinarians with the medical treatment of seabirds and ensuring optimum care.
• Seabird rescues and releases and the coordination thereof.
• Maintaining a state of preparedness and response for all seabird disasters.

Required Skills and Experience

• At least 2 years' experience working in wildlife rehabilitation; seabird experience would be advantageous.
• A tertiary qualification in Biological Science, wildlife or conservation preferred.
• Experience working according to standard operating procedures.
• Experience working with and overseeing small teams.
• A valid driver's licence and passport.
• Computer literate (Microsoft Office package).

Only open to South African residents.

Personal Attributes

• A deep passion for conservation.
• A hard‑working, compassionate individual with a clear understanding of SANCCOB's mission to conserve seabirds.
• Physically fit, willing to learn and dedicated.
• Ability to manage time efficiently.
• A team player, good at resolving issues and establishing rapport with staff, interns and volunteers.
• Ability to work under pressure, ensuring consistent performance even in challenging situations.
• Able to lead a team of interns and volunteers to give the best possible care to the seabirds undergoing rehabilitation.
• Able to contribute to emergency response situations such as oil spills, disease outbreaks or mass rescue and abandonment incidents.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to make a lasting impact on the conservation of seabirds.
• A dynamic, creative, and supportive work environment that encourages innovation and excellence.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the organisation.

Behavioural Competencies Required

• Seabird handling skills.
• Decision‑making skills.
• Planning and organising skills.
• Confidence.
• Ability to initiate action and take ownership.
• Stress tolerance.
• Tenacity.
• Teamwork abilities.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a one‑page cover letter, detailing your relevant experience. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

SANCCOB is an equal‑opportunity employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds.

We invite you to join us in our mission to protect seabirds and make a difference for the future of our planet's ecosystems. SANCCOB reserves the right not to make an appointment should a suitable candidate not be found.