CPP - Landscape Conservation Manager (Hogsback)

The Cape Parrot Project (CPP), a conservation organisation under the Wild Bird Trust, is seeking a field-based Landscape Conservation Manager to support the implementation of its Landscape Conservation Programme across the Cape Parrot’s range. This is a full-time position based in Hogsback, Eastern Cape.

About us

The Cape Parrot Project (CPP) is a conservation non-profit working across the Cape Parrot’s range, with its main base in Hogsback, Eastern Cape. As part of the Wild Bird Trust (WBT), CPP uses the endangered, endemic Cape Parrot as a flagship for safeguarding South Africa’s Mistbelt forest biome.

The Wild Bird Trust implements conservation programmes across South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Angola through its affiliated entities. In South Africa, CPP focuses on research, education, outreach, and landscape-scale conservation action, with an emphasis on forest restoration, ecological monitoring, and community engagement.

CPP’s Landscape Conservation Programme integrates species research with habitat restoration, monitoring, and protection to support the long-term survival of the Cape Parrot and the resilience of Mistbelt Forest ecosystems.

Reporting Lines

The Landscape Conservation Manager will report to the Project Manager and work closely with CPP research and field teams. The role provides scientific and operational leadership to a small field team supporting implementation across the landscape.

Job Overview

We are seeking a scientist who can apply ecological expertise in a practical, applied conservation context. This role combines field ecology, restoration science, spatial analysis, and team leadership.

The successful candidate will lead ecological monitoring and restoration activities, including vegetation surveys, habitat assessments, and spatial analysis using GIS tools. A key focus is supporting implementation of the Cape Parrot & Mistbelt Forest Action Plan.

This is a field-intensive role requiring regular travel to remote forest sites, work in rural environments, and the ability to operate in challenging field conditions. The position requires a balance of scientific rigour, practical field experience, and leadership capacity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support ecological monitoring and restoration across CPP project sites
• Conduct vegetation surveys and habitat assessments
• Apply GIS and spatial tools to assess forest condition and landscape change
• Support implementation of the Cape Parrot & Mistbelt Forest Action Plan
• Contribute to long-term ecological monitoring frameworks and data systems
• Supervise and support a small field team, ensuring quality control in data collection
• Support field logistics, planning, and execution of surveys and restoration activities
• Contribute to scientific reporting, data analysis, and interpretation of results
• Ensure accurate management of ecological and spatial datasets
• Support adaptive management through evidence-based ecological insights
• Engage with stakeholders across communities, government, and partner organisations

Education / Experience

• PhD in Ecology or related field (required)
• Minimum 2 years’ practical experience in ecological restoration and/or vegetation monitoring
• At least 1 peer-reviewed publication
• Valid driver’s licence with 2+ years’ driving experience (4x4 experience advantageous)
• Eligibility to work in South Africa (no work permits available)

Technical skills

• Strong field ecology and vegetation survey experience
• Proficiency in GIS software (ArcGIS and/or QGIS)
• Experience with ecological and spatial datasets
• Proficiency in R and Microsoft Office / Google Workspace
• Strong analytical, reporting, and scientific writing skills
• GPS navigation and field-based data collection experience

Competencies

• Proven ability to lead or supervise small teams
• Strong problem-solving skills in field environments
• Ability to work independently in remote conditions
• High attention to detail and scientific rigor
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills

Additional attributes

• Willingness to live and work in a remote rural community
• Physical fitness and resilience for fieldwork in rugged conditions
• Adaptability and initiative in dynamic field settings
• Strong commitment to conservation and applied ecological impact
• IsiXhosa and English communication skills advantageous

Place of Work / Working Conditions:

Based in Hogsback, Eastern Cape. The role requires regular travel to remote forest sites across the Cape Parrot’s distribution range. Fieldwork may involve physically demanding conditions, variable weather, and extended time in rural settings. Candidates should carefully consider the lifestyle implications of remote field-based work.

Application Process:

For a more detailed job description, or to apply, please send the following to: susan@wildbirdtrust.com and use “Landscape Conservation Manager” as the subject line:

• Cover letter outlining motivation
• Curriculum Vitae including at least three contactable references

Please note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.