Panthera Corporation

Panthera is the only organization in the world that is devoted exclusively to the conservation of the world’s 40 wild cat species and their ecosystems. Utilizing the expertise of the world’s premier cat biologists, Panthera develops and implements global strategies for the most imperiled species. Representing the most comprehensive effort of its kind, Panthera partners with local and international NGOs, scientific institutions, local communities, governments around the globe, and citizens who want to help ensure a future for wild cats. Panthera Corporation consists of Panthera Corporation- USA and several foreign legal entities and foreign branch offices.  For more on Panthera, visit www.panthera.org. 

The Position

Title: South Africa Leopard Monitoring Field Technician

 Location: South Africa

 Start Date: 01 September 2025

 Duration: 1 year fixed-term contract

We are seeking a candidate to manage and run ongoing camera trap surveys at reserves in Limpopo, North West, and Mpumalanga provinces in 2025. This is a field-based position, and the candidate will thus be expected to work independently with minimal supervision for prolonged periods. The candidate will be expected to set up and maintain camera trap surveys at various reserves during the year, thus liaising with partners and maintaining relationships, as well as assisting with Panthera surveys at other reserves when required. The work can be strenuous and will involve lengthy days in the field in hot conditions, and a reasonable degree of physical fitness is required. Accommodation whilst in the field (majority of the role) will be provided. This position offers opportunities for professional growth in applied ecology and conservation.

Primary Responsibilities and Duties

• Set up, maintain and take down camera trap surveys at sites designated by Panthera to facilitate leopard population monitoring, as well as providing necessary assistance to camera trap surveys run by partner organizations.
• Ensure that all metadata and raw data specified by Panthera are correctly collected and curated for all surveys for which you have full or partial responsibility.
• Maintain good relationships with reserve managers, staff and partner organizations
• Ensure that all project equipment, including vehicle and camera traps, is regularly maintained and kept in good working condition.
• Manage fieldwork budget and expenditure reporting.
• Effective survey schedule management and planning.

Qualifications and Experience

• B.Sc. in Conservation Biology or a related field
• Proficiency in MS Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), as well as experience in using GIS software
• Prior experience in conducting camera trap surveys
• Valid driving license (with 4x4 driving experience)

Skills and Attributes

• Fluency in English
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Physically fit
• Strong data management, logistics & communication skills
• Strong ability to operate in remote and Big 5 areas alone
• Minimum of 1 year of camera trapping experience

 How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit their most recent CV including two professional referees and their contact details to the Panthera Careers Page. If submitting a cover letter, please ensure it is submitted with your CV as one document. The application deadline is 8 August 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Although this position is open to candidates of any nationality, suitably qualified South African nationals will be given preference.