Conservation Field Officer

The Cape Leopard Trust (CLT) is a not-for-profit conservation organisation based in the Western Cape, South Africa (capeleopard.org.za). The CLT facilitates and promotes coexistence of leopards and humans, through research, conservation and education, to support biodiversity and critical ecosystems. The CLT is seeking to appoint a confident, self-driven individual to coordinate and execute fieldwork and conservation activities across the Western Cape.

Reporting to the Research & Conservation Director, the Conservation Field Officer will participate in various field data collection, data curation and analysis activities, as well as conservation implementation and outreach activities in line with the CLT Research & Conservation strategy. This full time position requires frequent travel within the Western Cape. The candidate should ideally be available to start work in April 2023.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Assist with the setting up and maintenance of camera trap surveys, data capturing, and analysis;

• Assist with fieldwork for postgraduate research projects;

• Implementation of Snare Awareness workshops and snare patrols with farmers and workers;

• Coordinate volunteers or field assistants;

• Assist with procurement, collection, and maintenance of fieldwork equipment and consumables;

• Liaise with private property owners/managers and reserve managers for fieldwork access and to share project feedback;

• Assist with compiling reports and keeping accurate records;

• Maintain project equipment and vehicles;

• Assist with the hosting and guiding of project visitors from time to time;

• Respond promptly and efficiently to project related email enquiries;

• Assist with and occasionally conduct group presentations;

• Be a responsible and presentable ambassador for the Trust.

Essential requirements: 

• A suitable minimum qualification (PGDip or BSc Hons) in nature conservation, ecology, biodiversity, or related field;

• Previous fieldwork experience is desirable;

• 1 – 3 years’ work experience is advantageous;

• Ability to work independently or as part of a team;

• Self-driven, organized, and able to take initiative;

• Resourceful, with good problem-solving and critical thinking skills;

• Diligent, with attention to detail and meticulous record keeping skills;

• Excellent spoken communication skills;

• Fluency in English with at least conversational Afrikaans speaking abilities, Oral proficiency in isiXhosa is beneficial;

• Knowledge of mammal biology and identification;

• Valid and clean driver’s license (manual transmission) essential, 4×4 driving experience is an advantage;

• High level of physical fitness;

• Private medical insurance compulsory.

Remuneration and benefits: 

• R17 000 – R 19 000 gross per month dependent on experience;

• Limited supply of CLT branded clothing;

• Use of a CLT vehicle for work purposes when needed;

• Business cell phone.

Two-year fixed-term contract

Application process: 

Individuals who meet the above criteria should apply by submitting a CV, a letter of motivation outlining your suitability for the role, relevant experience and timing of your availability, as well as the contact details for three references to Dr Kathryn Williams: rcdirector@capeleopard.org.za by the 17 February 2023 deadline. Please specify ‘Conservation Field Officer’ in the subject line of the email.

Please note only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview, within 4 working days following the closing date. No accommodation is included with this position.

The Cape Leopard Trust is an equal opportunities employer and the organisation complies with all employment and labour laws and regulations which ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment in which all team members are valued.

The Cape Leopard Trust reserves the right not to make an appointment to the position as advertised.