Senior Conservation Manager Ecosystem Restoration & Research

Skillnet Recruitment; Skukuza Rest Camp; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Skillnet Recruitment invites applications for a Conservation Manager to lead conservation programmes across a protected landscape in South Africa. The role focuses on planning, monitoring, research oversight, and stakeholder engagement to advance biodiversity objectives.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree (PhD advantageous), 8+ years in conservation in a Big 5 environment, and strong data analysis, GIS, and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field (PhD advantageous).
• 8+ years’ experience in conservation management in a Big 5 environment.
• Knowledge of South African ecosystems, wildlife and environmental legislation.
• Proficiency in MS Office, GIS and conservation software.
• Experience in ecological research, monitoring, and data analysis.
• Excellent communication skills in English; Afrikaans and Shangaan advantageous.
• Valid firearm competency and driver’s license (Code 10 preferred).
• Physically fit and able to work in remote environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement conservation programmes across a complex protected landscape.
• Develop and execute conservation management plans and objectives.
• Implement monitoring systems for ecosystem and species health.
• Approve and oversee ecological research projects.
• Manage habitat restoration and species reintroduction programmes.
• Develop and implement fire management plans and act as Fire Control Officer.
• Maintain biodiversity data systems and analyze ecological data.
• Prepare detailed conservation reports and present findings to stakeholders.
• Liaise with landowners and communities to promote conservation objectives.
• Identify funding opportunities, manage grants, and represent the reserve in conservation forums.
• Ensure compliance with conservation legislation, develop policies, and advocate for conservation-aligned policies.

Skills

Leadership & Team Management

Ecological & Conservation Expertise

Analytical & Data Interpretation

Stakeholder & Community Engagement

Project & Financial Management

Resilience & Adaptability

Education

Masters: Ecology

Masters: Environment Science

Masters: Conservation Biology

Tools

MS Office

GIS

Conservation software

Job description

Skillnet Recruitment invites applications for a Conservation Manager to lead conservation programmes across a protected landscape in South Africa. The role focuses on planning, monitoring, research oversight, and stakeholder engagement to advance biodiversity objectives.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree (PhD advantageous), 8+ years in conservation in a Big 5 environment, and strong data analysis, GIS, and communication skills.