Job Summary
? Conservation Manager | Hazyview, Mpumalanga ? Kendrick Recruitment is seeking an experienced and passionate Conservation Manager to join a leading conservation organisation based in Hazyview, Mpumalanga. This is a rare opportunity for a dedicated conservation professional to lead ecological management, biodiversity monitoring, research coordination, and stakeholder engagement within a world-class conservation environment. ? Package & Benefits ? Salary: Market Related (Depending on Qualifications & Experience) ? Location: Hazyview, Mpumalanga ? Accommodation Provided On-Site ? Permanent Position ? Key Responsibilities • Lead, manage, and develop the Conservation Team through training, mentorship, and performance management • Oversee biodiversity monitoring programmes, wildlife counts, habitat assessments, disease surveillance, and ecological research initiatives • Analyse ecological data and provide science-based recommendations to support conservation management decisions • Manage research applications and coordinate approved scientific projects within the reserve • Develop and implement conservation management plans aligned with reserve objectives • Oversee habitat restoration projects, invasive species control, wildlife management, and species reintroduction programmes • Implement and manage the reserve's fire management strategy, acting as Fire Control Officer • Build strong relationships with landowners, researchers, conservation organisations, and key stakeholders • Represent the organisation at scientific forums, conferences, and conservation meetings • Identify and manage conservation funding and grant opportunities • Ensure compliance with environmental legislation, protected area regulations, and conservation policies ✅ Minimum Requirements • Master's Degree (completed or near completion) in Conservation, Ecology, Wildlife Management, Conservation Biology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Botany, or a related field, with ideally 8+ years of relevant experience OR • BTech, BSc Honours, or equivalent qualification with at least 15 years of relevant conservation management experience • Extensive knowledge of ecology, wildlife management, biodiversity conservation, monitoring, and data analysis • Experience in veld management, ecological restoration, and wildlife management within a Big 5 environment • Proven leadership and people management experience • Experience engaging with landowners, boards, and non-scientific stakeholders • Strong understanding of South African environmental legislation and protected area management requirements • Proficiency in MS Office, GIS (ArcGIS or QGIS), statistical software, and conservation monitoring systems • Experience with drones and camera trap technologies advantageous • Valid driver's licence, 4x4 competency, and SAPS Firearm Competency (bolt action) essential • Code 10 licence advantageous ✨ Ideal Candidate A highly respected conservation professional with strong scientific expertise and outstanding stakeholder engagement skills. The ideal candidate will be able to translate complex ecological data into practical conservation strategies, build consensus among diverse stakeholders, and provide visionary leadership while protecting and enhancing biodiversity within a premier conservation landscape.