Conservation Monitoring Officer – Onguma Game Reserve

Job Description

Onguma Game Reserve is a proudly family-owned luxury safari destination situated on the eastern boundary of Etosha National Park and is looking for a responsible, motivated and conservation-minded individual to join our team in a permanent position as a Conservation Monitoring Officer. This is a hands-on position combining wildlife monitoring, data analysis, reporting and practical reserve support. The successful candidate will work closely with the Reserve Managers and will be expected to work independently, accurately and responsibly.

Key Responsibilities:
– Collect and manage camera footage from cameras positioned at waterholes and other monitoring points across the reserve.
– Download, organise, sort and correctly store camera footage and associated data.
– Thoroughly review and analyse footage. Identify wildlife activity, species presence, behaviour, frequency of visits and other relevant observations.
– Identify possible patterns, trends or changes in wildlife activity over time.
– Maintain accurate and organised monitoring records.
– Prepare detailed, meaningful reports that provide useful information to Reserve Management.
– Highlight unusual observations or changes that may require further investigation or management attention.
– Assist with game counts and other wildlife-monitoring activities.
– Accurately capture and organise game-count information.
– Analyse data collected during game counts. Compare results where historical information is available and identify relevant trends or changes.
– Compile clear and detailed reports that can assist Reserve Management with conservation and wildlife-management decisions.
– Assist the Reserve Managers with stock takes and general stock control.
– Assist with stock ordering for the butchery.
– Maintain accurate records relating to stock and orders.
– Assist the Farm Manager and Reserve Managers with other duties when required.
– Participate in practical outdoor work and field activities as needed.

Requirements:
– Have a relevant conservation, wildlife management, nature conservation or similar qualification, OR currently be studying towards a relevant qualification.
– Hold a valid driver’s licence.
– Provide a police clearance certificate with no adverse findings.
– Be computer literate and comfortable working with digital files, data and reports.
– Have good written communication skills and be able to produce clear, detailed and professional reports.
– Be able to work accurately with information and pay close attention to detail.