Are you ready to make a tangible impact on landscapes and contribute to climate change mitigation? NatCarbon Africa, an African leader in nature-based carbon projects, invites recent graduates to join our Young Professional Program. This innovative 12-month paid internship has been specially designed to support exceptional recent graduates in fields such as Ecology, Botany, Geography, Herbivore management and related fields with the chance to learn and discover potential opportunities in the nature-based carbon sector.
Successful candidates will join our Operations and Land Negotiation Team for the Spekboom Restoration Project in South Africa’s Eastern and Western Cape provinces. In collaboration with Imperative Global, we aim to restore up to 100,000 hectares of degraded subtropical thicket through strategic spekboom (Portulacaria afra) planting, improving ecosystem functions, biodiversity, and agricultural productivity.
POSITION OVERVIEW:
As an Operations Intern you will support with planning, conducting and reporting on the projects’ in-field monitoring activities. These monitoring activities include vegetation surveys, fence mapping and assessments, herbivore management, quality control, biodiversity assessments and social surveys and reporting. The successful candidate will be based in Jansenville at our project field office. The position will regular travel to sites in the Eastern and Western Cape.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Our project offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about how nature-based carbon projects work alongside leading experts in the field. We are seeking exceptionally motivated candidates who are ready to engage deeply with topics such as:
Vegetation Assessments: Support the Restoration Ecologist in conduction vegetation assessments, collecting infield data, identification of fauna and flora and capturing collected information in the correct format and databases.
Fence mapping and Assessments: Assist in conducting fence mapping and assessments, analyse data in GIS program and convert, store and submit data in correct format.
Data Management and Analysis: Store, manage, and conduct preliminary analyses of ecological, social and other scientific data, ensuring data accuracy, organisation, and accessibility for team use.
Herbivore Management: Assist with data collection to support the implementation of the integrated herbivory management plan.
Quality Control: Assist with quality management of harvesting and planting operations.
Reporting: Provide regular reports on data collected, including initial analyses to inform project adjustments and further planning.
Draft Farm Management Plans: Drafting management plans and maintain data for updates.
REQUIREMENTS:
Educational Background: Recently completed a diploma in Conservation, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Ecology, Botany, Biology, Geography, or a related field.
Fieldwork Experience: Previous experience in fieldwork or outdoor data collection is preferred but not required. Willingness to work in remote locations and under variable environmental conditions is essential.
Technical Skills: Basic understanding of ecological, biodiversity and/or social survey techniques. Proficiency in using data entry tools and software, with experience in Excel or other data management tools. Knowledge of GIS is an advantage.
Data Collection and Management: Strong organisational skills for managing data accurately and maintaining clear records. Ability to handle scientific data systematically and contribute to its analysis.
Communication Skills: Good verbal and written communication skills.
Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Flexibility and resourcefulness in adapting to changing field conditions, with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
Team Collaboration: A collaborative attitude and willingness to support a multidisciplinary team in achieving project goals.
Passion for Conservation: Strong interest in environmental restoration, conservation, and social impact projects.
Driver’s license: Code B or C driver’s license is required, 4x4 driving experience will be advantageous.
Note: This internship requires physical fitness, as it may involve working outdoors for extended periods and in variable weather conditions
Why Join us?
- Hands-on experience in environmental and social fieldwork, providing exposure to data collection methods and analysis within an impactful restoration project.
- Be part of a team that values diversity, innovation, and excellence. NatCarbon Africa offers competitive compensation, including healthcare, retirement contributions, professional development and recognition for outstanding performance.
- Contribute to impactful work that combines technology with environmental restoration, making a lasting difference in Africa’s landscapes and communities.
- If you are driven by a passion for environmental sustainability and have the skills or academic background to contribute significantly, we invite you to apply to be a part of our Young Professional Program.
How to Apply:
To apply, please send us the following:
• Cover letter (not to exceed one page).
• Resume/CV (not to exceed three pages).
• For further information about the job and NatCarbon - contact rika.duplessis@natcarbonafrica.com
• Please add app.bamboohr.com to your contact list to ensure you receive emails from us*