Seabird Rehabilitator

SANCCOB (Southern African Foundation For The Conservation Of Coastal Birds)

Seabird Rehabilitator

Deadline: 23 April 2025

Region: Gqeberha, Eastern Cape

Salary: Subject to negotiation

Type of employment: Full time

Job Type: Full-time, permanent position

Location: Gqeberha, Eastern Cape

Starting Date: As soon as possible, however, negotiable.

Work Hours: Given the nature of the work required, work hours will need to be flexible but generally equate to 40 hours per week.

Travel: Be willing and able to travel (domestic and international).

Remuneration: Subject to negotiation. Remuneration package commensurate with qualifications, experience, and SANCCOB’s remuneration model.

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 Gqeberha on a full-time basis. The Seabird Rehabilitator will report directly to the Seabird Rehabilitation Supervisor 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.

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.

Roles and Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Daily care and treatment of various species of seabirds, of all ages, including after hours on-call duties and emergency response.
• Ensure all protocols and standards are maintained at the highest level and are according to 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 of first responders and drivers to catch, handle and transport seabirds.
• Administrative tasks (report writing, daily detailed record keeping of seabirds in care, stock control and orders).
• Assisting clinical veterinarians with the treatment of seabirds and attending to all caring requirements of seabirds at the centre.
• Seabird rescues and the coordination thereof.
• Maintaining a state of preparedness and response for all seabird disasters.

Qualifications And Requirements

Required Skills and Experience

• At least 2 years’ working in wildlife rehabilitation, especially 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.
• Computer literate (Microsoft Office package).
• Only open to South African residents.

Personal Attributes

The Successful Candidate Will Require The Following

• A deep passion for conservation.
• A hard working, compassionate individual with a clear understanding of SANCCOB’s mission to conserve seabirds is essential.
• Be physically fit, willing to learn, dedicated, and able to manage time efficiently.
• A team player, good at resolving personnel issues, and establishing good rapport with staff, interns and volunteers.
• Ability to cope under pressure and manage personal stress effectively, ensuring consistent performance even in challenging situations.
• Be able to lead a team of interns and volunteers to give the best possible care to the seabirds undergoing rehabilitation.
• Be able to contribute to emergency responses to crisis situations such as oil spills, disease outbreaks or mass rescue and abandonment incidents.

Behavioural Competencies Required

• Seabird handling skills
• Decision making skills
• Planning and organising skills
• Confident
• Able to initiate action and take ownership
• Stress tolerance
• Tenacity

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.

How to apply

Please submit your CV and cover letter, detailing your relevant experience, to carl@sanccob.co.za. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

SANCCOB reserves the right not to make an appointment should a suitable candidate not be found.

Date posted: 11 April 2025