Senior Forest Ecologist and Management Specialist

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Forest Ecologist and Management Specialist to drive ecological research, develop forest management plans, and advance biodiversity conservation in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

You will conduct ecological surveys, advise on invasive species, and collaborate with agencies and communities to support sustainable forestry and climate resilience in South Africa's ecologically rich landscapes.

Qualifications

• PhD in Forest Ecology, Ecology, Conservation Biology, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years post-doctoral experience in forest ecological research and management.
• Extensive knowledge of South African forest types, flora, fauna, and ecosystem processes.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing forest management plans.

Responsibilities

• Conduct ecological surveys and assessments to monitor forest health and biodiversity.
• Develop and implement comprehensive forest management plans prioritising ecological sustainability.
• Research and advise on invasive species management and restoration of degraded forests.
• Analyse data on forest growth, composition and health to inform decisions.
• Contribute to strategies for carbon sequestration and climate adaptation.
• Collaborate with government agencies, researchers, and communities on conservation initiatives.
• Prepare scientific reports, policy recommendations, and outreach materials.
• Supervise field research assistants and interns, ensuring protocols and safety.
• Advise on best practices for sustainable harvesting where applicable.
• Stay current with scientific literature and trends in forest ecology.

Skills

Ecological modeling

GIS

Statistical analysis

Project management

Science communication

Education

PhD in Forest Ecology or related field

Tools

GIS software

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent conservation organization with extensive landholdings, is seeking a Senior Forest Ecologist and Management Specialist to contribute to the sustainable management and ecological health of its forests in and around Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role involves conducting ecological research, developing scientifically-sound forest management plans, and ensuring the conservation of biodiversity within these vital ecosystems. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of forest ecology, conservation principles, and sustainable forestry practices. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated professional to make a significant impact on environmental stewardship and biodiversity conservation in one of South Africa's ecologically rich provinces. You will be working with a passionate team committed to preserving and enhancing natural resources for future generations. The role requires a blend of field research, analytical skills, and strategic planning to address the complex challenges of forest conservation.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct ecological surveys and assessments to monitor forest health, biodiversity, and ecosystem dynamics.
• Develop and implement comprehensive forest management plans that prioritize ecological sustainability and conservation objectives.
• Research and advise on the management of invasive species and the restoration of degraded forest areas.
• Analyze data on forest growth, composition, and health to inform management decisions.
• Contribute to the development of strategies for carbon sequestration and climate change adaptation in forest ecosystems.
• Collaborate with government agencies, research institutions, and local communities on forest conservation initiatives.
• Prepare scientific reports, policy recommendations, and public outreach materials related to forest ecology.
• Supervise field research assistants and interns, ensuring adherence to research protocols and safety standards.
• Advise on best practices for sustainable harvesting and resource utilization where applicable.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging trends in forest ecology and conservation.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Forest Ecology, Ecology, Conservation Biology, or a related environmental science field.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral experience in forest ecological research and management.
• Extensive knowledge of South African forest types, flora, fauna, and ecosystem processes.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing forest management plans.
• Proficiency in ecological modeling, statistical analysis, and GIS applications.
• Strong understanding of conservation biology principles and biodiversity assessment techniques.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex scientific information effectively to diverse audiences.
• Experience in project management and working with interdisciplinary teams.
• Willingness to conduct fieldwork in various forest conditions in the KwaZulu-Natal region.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package and comprehensive benefits, including medical aid, pension fund, and opportunities for professional development and further research.
• Employees benefit from a flexible work environment, access to significant research resources, and the opportunity to work on high-impact conservation projects.
• This role offers the unique chance to significantly influence forest conservation strategies within the rich biodiversity of Durban and its surrounding areas.