SAPRI Sealer Overwinterer x3
The South African Environmental Observation Network of the National Research Foundation (NRF-SAEON) Egagasini Node, based in Cape Town, Western Cape, requires the services of 3 suitably qualified individuals to be responsible for collecting field data on 3 seal species to be used for conservation and academic purposes as part of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI).
All overwinterer positions involve undertaking fieldwork under very rigorous and extreme conditions (cold, wet and windy 95% of the time). Meticulous observation, note-taking and record-keeping abilities are important; as is being able to manage large electronic datasets, electronics, (e.g. satellite relay data loggers) and a storage facility.
Note: The incumbents will execute duties at a sub-Antarctic research base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements of the managing authority (Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, DFFE). The successful applicants will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential.
Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical (physical, medical and psychological) examination, at no cost to the applicants.
As per job advertisement:
Key Responsibilities for the Overwintering Seal Field Researcher position:
- Counting, handling, sampling, mark-recapture of seals
- Satellite device deployment and removal, weighing, sampling, measuring, observations
- Remote field work without direct supervision. Field work will encompass 65% of the time, with a lot of walking (5000 – 7500km) in gumboots during the contract time frame
- Office and laboratory work for sample management and data analysis
- A large proportion of time is allocated to assisting with dedicated Killer whale observations
- Data capturing, analysis, and reporting
- Rigorous outdoor activity in harsh conditions and unstable vegetation (low temperatures, gusty winds, snow, ice and rain)
- Management of equipment (asset management)
- Teamwork at the base
Key Requirements:
Qualification:
A relevant BSc Degree in Natural and Biological Science or equivalent qualification.
A BSc (Hons) Degree or higher will be advantageous.
Experience:
- A minimum of one-year work experience on marine mammals
- Experience in field surveys, research administration, data collection and management, mammal identification & handling, report
writing and recording and experience with image manipulation software (e.g. Lightroom/ Photoshop or related). - Experience in data management, report writing. Well versed in MS Office (or related) software programmes. Advantageous to have
experience with image manipulation software (e.g. Lightroom/ Photoshop or related). - Relevant field experience (previous work with species of speciality, research, familiarity).
- Evidenced ability to work independently and in difficult field conditions.
- High fitness levels, ability to carry heavy backpacks and walk long distances in gumboots (Average ~10 km each day)
Knowledge:
- Ability to work long hours voluntarily
- Ability to work individually and as part of a team
- Sound organizing and planning skills
- Meticulous and careful recording of data
- Technical ability
- Relevant computer and data skills
- Good communication skills
- Conflict management and resolution
- Evidence of physical ability (current or past sporting, hiking etc.)
About The Employer:
The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities.
The South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) is a research platform funded by the Department of Science Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and managed by the National Research Foundation (NRF) since 2002. SAEON is mandated to observe and research ecosystems on land, in coastal regions and the oceans to understand how those systems function and might change over time and space when influenced by socio-economic driving forces including
Apply before 11 November 2026:
