61 Conservation jobs in South Africa
Conservation Officer
Posted today
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Job Description
Purpose
Lead conservation operations across the reserve.
Preserve ecological integrity.
Protect wildlife health and maintain functioning habitats.
Ensure legal compliance and accurate reporting.
Key responsibilities
Wildlife monitoring & protection
• Use camera traps, satellite tracking, radio collaring, and direct observation.
• Patrol on foot and by vehicle. Log health, sightings, and incidents.
• Analyse data to guide decisions and actions.
• Coordinate veterinary support for interventions and disease control.
Habitat management
• Map and assess grassland, riparian, and sensitive zones.
• Plan and execute restoration and erosion control.
• Monitor grazing pressure and adjust management to sustain vegetation.
• Plan and implement safe controlled burns.
• Manage water points and test water quality.
• Protect wildlife corridors and connectivity.
Invasive species control
• Identify, report, and remove priority invasives.
• Train field staff for early detection and response.
• Track effort vs. outcome and adapt for long-term control.
Operational conservation infrastructure
• Inspect and maintain perimeter and internal fencing.
• Keep water provisioning reliable, track feed and consumables.
• Inspect roads and drainage, coordinate grading and erosion fixes.
Compliance & permits
• Maintain compliance with SA conservation law (e.g. TOPS) and CapeNature requirements.
• Manage permit applications, renewals, and conditions.
• Keep accurate records on wildlife, habitat, and incidents.
Education, research & tourism support
• Support researchers with logistics and field data.
• Occasional guiding when required
Reporting & administration
• Submit monthly and quarterly conservation reports with metrics and photos.
• Maintain logs, maps, and registers (wildlife, habitat, infrastructure, compliance).
• Recommend improvements based on field observations and data.
What you'll bring
• Degree/diploma in Nature Conservation, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 3–5 years in a conservation role; Big Five reserve experience preferred.
• Strong grasp of SA environmental regulations and permits.
• Hands-on field skills: fencing, water systems, basic roadworks, erosion control.
• Proficient with camera traps, data collection, and spreadsheets (Excel/Google Sheets).
• Valid driver's licence; confident 4×4 driving preferred.
• First Aid Level 1 (or willing to obtain).
• Clear communicator. Organised. Calm under pressure. Team-first.
Key competencies
• Ecological knowledge of the Karoo biome.
• Practical leadership and field decision-making.
• Proactive, resilient mindset.
• Systems thinking and strong written reporting.
What we offer
• Impactful conservation work on a private Big Five reserve.
• On-site single accommodation, selective meals(dinner when on evening duty)
• Market-related salary; training and growth opportunities.
• Uniforms and laundry
How to apply
Email your CV, a short cover note, and two contactable references to
with subject "Conservation Officer – Mont Eco.
Conservation & Sustainability Manager
Posted 4 days ago
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Job Description
This post links directly to the Green Job post. Click to see the job post in a new tab.
Integration Resourcing - Cape Town, Western Cape - They are looking for a passionate and highly motivated *Foundation Manager* to work with managers, employees, customers, communities, donors and shareholders to address the organisations approach to environmental responsibility. This is a great opportunity for a business minded, future focused, innovative, hard-working individual with a thirst to contribute towards holistic and regenerative conservation and community initiatives. Supported
#J-18808-LjbffrNature Conservation Officer
Posted 4 days ago
Job Viewed
Job Description
They are looking for a Nature Conservation Officer to assist in the management, promotion and improvement of the environmentally important areas within Century City through conservation, publicity and scientific monitoring.
Job requirements:
• Contribute to planning and policy development for the sustainable management and maintenance of the wetlands and the canal system.
• Monitor biodiversity and assist in the development of maintenance plans.
• Assist in the in re-establishing of rare and endangered plant species within the ephemeral pans.
• Implement the ongoing development and maintenance of the precincts infrastructure as an educational & recreation destination
• Provide support to the other environmental teams
• Conduct ECO site audits in the line with CEMP’s for construction sites.
• Proactively contribute as a member of the management team to achieve companywide strategies and objectives.
Minimum Requirements / Formal Qualifications:
• National Diploma: Nature Conservation or equivalent qualifications.
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in managing a Conservation area.
• Code 8 Drivers license (Code 10 would be an added advantage).
• MS Office literate.
Competencies Required:
• Strong organizational, supervision, problem-solving and self-motivational skills are essential.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with staff.
• The ability to work efficiently and productively, within a team and without supervision at times.
• Ability to conduct research and produce environmental reports, worksheets and interpretive displays.
• General maintenance knowledge would be an added advantage.
Conservation/Farm Manager
Posted 25 days ago
Job Viewed
Job Description
Candidate requirements;
- Some tertiary education preferred but not essential
- Conservation related certification/diploma/degree
- Proven experience in farm management, agriculture, or hospitality estate management.
- Knowledge of sustainable farming practices.
- Strong leadership and staff management skills.
- Excellent problem-solving and organizational abilities.
- Good communication skills.
- Ability to operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment.
- Knowledge of local flora, fauna, and conservation requirements.
- Develop and implement farm management plans aligned with sustainability and conservation principles.
- Oversee alien and invasive plant clearing and soil management.
- Maintain fences, water sources, irrigation systems, and drainage.
- Monitor soil health and implement soil conservation techniques.
- Coordinate with anti-poaching and wildlife management teams to assist with the safety of wildlife and livestock.
- Oversee maintenance of farm equipment, vehicles, and tools.
- Manage infrastructure such as roads, storage facilities, and fencing.
- Coordinate repairs and upgrades to ensure operational efficiency.
- mote eco-friendly farming practices.
- Monitor and manage water usage, waste disposal, and biodiversity conservation.
- Implement initiatives to reduce environmental impact.
- Recruit, train, and supervise farm workers and grounds staff.
- Ensure team adherence to safety protocols and operational standards.
- Conduct regular staff meetings and performance reviews.
- Prepare budgets for farm operations, equipment, and supplies.
- Manage procurement of necessary materials, tools
- Keep accurate records of farm activities, inventories, and expenses.
- Promote awareness of conservation and sustainable farming during guest interactions.
- Proven experience in farm management, agriculture, or hospitality estate management.
- Knowledge of sustainable farming practices.
- Strong leadership and staff management skills.
- Excellent problem-solving and organizational abilities.
- Good communication skills.
- Ability to operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment.
- Knowledge of local flora, fauna, and conservation requirements.
- Passion for conservation and sustainable farming.
- Strong work ethic and integrity.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Flexibility to adapt to the dynamic needs of a safari lodge environment.
Wildlife Conservation Volunteer
Posted today
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Job Description
Wildlife and environmental conservation
Wild Rescue, a non-profit wildlife sanctuary and nature reserve on the Goukou River in the Western Cape (southern coastal rural region) is looking for a dedicated person with some practical experience with maintaining a nature reserve.
The person must be prepared to work hard, be practical, flexible and hands on, and understand wildlife issues and conservation.
The person will work with the sanctuary management team. Self-motivation and a passion about preserving wildlife, and conserving habitats and biodiversity are prerequisites. We do alien clearing quite regularly when we have any spare time.
Shared accommodation and basic vegetarian meals will be provided. We take turns in cooking at nights and washing up.
We all work together to do domestic chores, as we do not have domestic help, and sometimes have accommodation bookings,so prepare the cottage, or double room for guests.
A suitable qualification will be an advantage, and training will be given. Wild Rescue would like the successful candidate to start as soon as possible and be willing to work for at least three months.
Please have a good look at our website.
Interested persons must please send their CV's, with a motivating letter to
Brenda Piek, Environmental Officer, Wild Rescue.
Job Types: Part-time, Temporary
Contract length: 3 months
- Expected Start Date: ASAP
Job Type: Part-time
Expected hours: 35 – 40 per week
Work Location: In person
Electronic Engineer - Wildlife Conservation
Posted 3 days ago
Job Viewed
Job Description
My client is a dynamic and innovative company committed to conservation efforts through cutting-edge technology. Their survey system is a pioneering platform designed to process and analyze aerial survey data. It utilizes state-of-the-art deep learning classifiers to identify animals in aerial images, enabling the generation of accurate statistical population estimates based on sightings. As they expand the capabilities of the platform to handle diverse aerial survey data, they are seeking a passionate and skilled Engineer to join their team.
Duties & ResponsibilitiesEducation:
- Bachelor's degree in Electronic Engineering, or a related field.
- Proficiency in coding with React, JavaScript, and C++.
- Experience with AWS services and distributed databases.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
- A passion for conservation and the application of technology to address environmental challenges.
Job Experience & Skills Required:
- Previous experience with machine learning, embedded software development, or VHDL.
- Familiarity with geospatial data processing.
- The primary focus will be on expanding the scope of the surveying software to accommodate various types of aerial survey data.
- The successful candidate will be responsible for coding in React, JavaScript, and C++, while also working with AWS and distributed databases.
Apply now!
If you have not had any response in two weeks, please consider the vacancy application unsuccessful. Your profile will be kept on our database for any other suitable roles/positions.
For more information contact:
Marzaan van der Bank
Foundation Manager - community and conservation
Posted 3 days ago
Job Viewed
Job Description
Overview
Integration Resourcing - Cape Town, Western Cape - tourism industry-leader, the successful incumbent will have an innate passion for sustainable business as well as an understanding of the interface between such work and the commercial aspects of the business.
Responsibilities- Identifies ways in which the company can balance business obligations with the goal of respecting, supporting and improving community and conservation within the local territories in which we operate
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conservation and research program director
Posted today
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Job Description
POSITION: CONSERVATION AND RESEARCH PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Organisation: Sabine Plattner African Charities (SPAC) Conservation Research
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
About Sabine Plattner African Charities (SPAC) Conservation Research
Sabine Plattner African Charities NPC (SPAC) is a South African non-profit organization dedicated to influencing and supporting the conservation of rainforests, wilderness, and protected areas in Africa. SPAC achieves this by supporting the livelihood strategies of local communities through education and science, promoting school curricula with enriched afro-centric conservation-related content. SPAC operates in multiple African countries, including Congo, Senegal, Morocco, Namibia, Rwanda, Gabon, and South Africa. Founded in 2008 by Sabine Plattner and funded by the German Hasso Plattner Foundation, SPAC is committed to creating empowered communities that co-exist with nature.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Research and Conservation Program Director to lead the growth of the SPAC Research Division, transforming it into an internationally recognised research institute. Guided by SPAC's vision of "Africans bringing knowledge about Africa to the world" , the Director will champion sustainable, community-driven, and policy-informed strategies to ensure the long-term protection and enrichment of the Congo Basin rainforest.
This is a full-time position based in Cape Town with significant travel requirements. The role will involve frequent visits to the northern Republic of Congo, particularly Odzala-Kokoua National Park, as well as international travel for conferences and strategic networking. Candidates should anticipate up to 180 days of travel annually.
The Program Director will play a pivotal role in shaping SPAC's research agenda, driving innovation, and establishing new standards of research excellence in one of Africa's most vital ecosystems.
Reports to SPAC Chief Executive Officer & Board of Directors.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
· Proactively collaborate, maintain and newly establish partnerships with distinguished Research Professionals and Professors from ranging institutions and organisations.
· Comfortably interact at a Governmental level, engaging with Ministers and other government representatives in the Republic of Congo, South Africa and neighbouring countries.
· Equally comfortably interact with personnel at all education levels and diverse cultural backgrounds.
· Develop, implement and measure long-term impact.
· Unlock opportunities for groundbreaking research opportunities.
Operational Management
· Oversee the management of day-to-day operations of the entire SPAC Research programme, including human resources, IT, facilities, public relations and administrative functions.
· Implement the management structure at the Congo-based SPAC Research Station so that it may function seamlessly without your continued presence on-site.
· Ensure that no communication shortfalls exist between the Cape Town and Congo-based offices.
· Submit high quality reports and proposals, always meeting submission deadlines.
Financial & Compliance Oversight
· Plan the SPAC Research program budget and oversee resource allocation.
· Guarantee compliance with all relevant governmental regulations, university agreements, and permits across all jurisdictions, specifically in Germany, South Africa, and the Republic of Congo.
Talent Management
· Lead talent management initiatives, including recruitment, retention, and staff development.
· Expand upon and coordinate with SPAC's Science Committee. Formulate a panel of experts that covers the multi-disciplinary range of research expertise.
· Foster a performance-driven work culture.
Fluency in English is required, yet fluency in both French and English is strongly preferred.
Qualifications & Experience
· A PhD in Science. Specialisations in One Health, Anthropology, Primatology, Conservation, Rainforests and/or Genomics is preferred.
· 10+ years of experience in a senior leadership role, in a research- focused institution, or non-profit organisation, and preferably with operations in tropical forest and in the rural Africa.
· Proven experience in managing strategic initiatives within a diverse organisation that is spatially separated, and across a range of multi-disciplinary research topics.
· A distinguished track record of research publications and conference participation.
Key Skills & Competencies
· Leadership: Strong visionary leader with a track record of driving strategy and operations in a complex and remote environment.
· Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make informed decisions. Be able to easily grasp and engage in-depth in a wide range of research topics.
· Innovation: A creative and forward-thinking mindset to develop and implement new initiatives that drive SPAC's mission.
· Collaboration: Excellent ability to work cross-functionally with staff, students and interns. Skilled at engaging with academic professionals, government officials and industry partners for impactful research outcomes.
· Financial Acumen: Expertise in managing large-scale budgets and ensuring resource optimisation.
· Adaptability: Ability to navigate and lead change in a dynamic environment.
To Apply:
This is a full-time position with competitive compensation and benefits. If you have a deep passion for the rainforest, conservation and a strong background in a scientific discipline that relates to the SPAC vision, we encourage you to apply.
Interested candidates can submit their CV including references and certificates compiled as one pdf and a short cover letter to Please include "SPAC CR Director Application – (Your Name)" in the subject line
Job Type: Full-time
Language:
- French and English bilingual (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Program Director for Conservation and Research
Posted today
Job Viewed
Job Description
POSITION: CONSERVATION AND RESEARCH PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Organisation:
Sabine Plattner African Charities (SPAC) Conservation Research
Location:
Cape Town, South Africa
About Sabine Plattner African Charities (SPAC) Conservation Research
Sabine Plattner African Charities NPC (SPAC) is a South African non-profit organization dedicated to influencing and supporting the conservation of rainforests, wilderness, and protected areas in Africa. SPAC achieves this by supporting the livelihood strategies of local communities through education and science, promoting school curricula with enriched afro-centric conservation-related content. SPAC operates in multiple African countries, including Congo, Senegal, Morocco, Namibia, Rwanda, Gabon, and South Africa. Founded in 2008 by Sabine Plattner and funded by the German Hasso Plattner Foundation, SPAC is committed to creating empowered communities that co-exist with nature.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Research and Conservation Program Director to lead the growth of the SPAC Research Division, transforming it into an internationally recognised research institute. Guided by SPAC's vision of
"Africans bringing knowledge about Africa to the world"
, the Director will champion sustainable, community-driven, and policy-informed strategies to ensure the long-term protection and enrichment of the Congo Basin rainforest.
This is a full-time position based in Cape Town with significant travel requirements. The role will involve frequent visits to the northern Republic of Congo, particularly Odzala-Kokoua National Park, as well as international travel for conferences and strategic networking. Candidates should anticipate up to 180 days of travel annually.
The Program Director will play a pivotal role in shaping SPAC's research agenda, driving innovation, and establishing new standards of research excellence in one of Africa's most vital ecosystems.
Reports to SPAC Chief Executive Officer & Board of Directors.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Proactively collaborate, maintain and newly establish partnerships with distinguished Research Professionals and Professors from ranging institutions and organisations.
- Comfortably interact at a Governmental level, engaging with Ministers and other government representatives in the Republic of Congo, South Africa and neighbouring countries.
- Equally comfortably interact with personnel at all education levels and diverse cultural backgrounds.
- Develop, implement and measure long-term impact.
- Unlock opportunities for groundbreaking research opportunities.
Operational Management
- Oversee the management of day-to-day operations of the entire SPAC Research programme, including human resources, IT, facilities, public relations and administrative functions.
- Implement the management structure at the Congo-based SPAC Research Station so that it may function seamlessly without your continued presence on-site.
- Ensure that no communication shortfalls exist between the Cape Town and Congo-based offices.
- Submit high quality reports and proposals, always meeting submission deadlines.
Financial & Compliance Oversight
- Plan the SPAC Research program budget and oversee resource allocation.
- Guarantee compliance with all relevant governmental regulations, university agreements, and permits across all jurisdictions, specifically in Germany, South Africa, and the Republic of Congo.
Talent Management
- Lead talent management initiatives, including recruitment, retention, and staff development.
- Expand upon and coordinate with SPAC's Science Committee. Formulate a panel of experts that covers the multi-disciplinary range of research expertise.
- Foster a performance-driven work culture.
Fluency in English is required, yet fluency in both French and English is strongly preferred.
Qualifications & Experience
- A PhD in Science. Specialisations in One Health, Anthropology, Primatology, Conservation, Rainforests and/or Genomics is preferred.
- 10+ years of experience in a senior leadership role, in a research- focused institution, or non-profit organisation, and preferably with operations in tropical forest and in the rural Africa.
- Proven experience in managing strategic initiatives within a diverse organisation that is spatially separated, and across a range of multi-disciplinary research topics.
- A distinguished track record of research publications and conference participation.
Key Skills & Competencies
Leadership:
Strong visionary leader with a track record of driving strategy and operations in a complex and remote environment.
Analytical Thinking:
Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make informed decisions. Be able to easily grasp and engage in-depth in a wide range of research topics.
Innovation:
A creative and forward-thinking mindset to develop and implement new initiatives that drive SPAC's mission.
Collaboration:
Excellent ability to work cross-functionally with staff, students and interns. Skilled at engaging with academic professionals, government officials and industry partners for impactful research outcomes.
Financial Acumen:
Expertise in managing large-scale budgets and ensuring resource optimisation.
Adaptability:
Ability to navigate and lead change in a dynamic environment.
To Apply:
This is a
full-time
position with
competitive compensation
and benefits. If you have a deep passion for the rainforest, conservation and a strong background in a scientific discipline that relates to the SPAC vision, we encourage you to apply.
Interested candidates can submit their CV including references and certificates compiled as one pdf and a short cover letter to
Please include "SPAC CR Director Application – (Your Name)" in the subject line
Office Manager / PA to the CEO - Conservation - Zw
Posted 3 days ago
Job Viewed
Job Description
Reference: PTA -MB-2
Salary: R25 000 - R35 000 CTC per month (Depending on experience and strength of the Candidate)
- Grade 12 Senior Certificate
- Any other Diploma / Certificate or equivalent in Project Administration / Office management / Personal Assistant / Business Management
- 3 Days per week IN Zwavelpoort to manage conservation staff, admin, and projects
- 2 Days per week in Boschkop for Office Management
- Love of nature and excited about conservation
- Fit and healthy (requires walks in the veld)
- Highly organized
- Professional
- Must have a valid driver's license and own reliable vehicle
- Fully computer literate
- Strong organizing and management skills
- Strong administration / invoicing & quotation skills
- Must have an eye for detail
- Liaise with external consultants (environmental consultants, town planners, attorneys)
- Take minutes and schedule tasks
- Maintain various records and documentation
- Draft, review and send communications on behalf of executive
- Review documentation
- Assist with research and compiling of reports and presentations
- Monitor progress and drive projects forward
Consultant: Marelize Bester - Dante Personnel Pretoria Silver Lakes
Apply via our website
If you do not hear from us within 5 days, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
#J-18808-Ljbffr