SAPRI Birder Overwinterer
National Research Foundation
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 climate change. We deliver our data online and offer tools, services and advice for informed environmental policymaking.
Position: SAPRI Birder Overwinterer
Business Unit: South Africa Environmental Observation Network
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
Position Summary
SAEON Egagasini Node, based in Cape Town, Western Cape, requires the services of 2 suitably qualified individuals to be responsible for collecting field data on Albatrosses and Petrels 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.
Key Responsibilities
Collecting field data on surface-nesting seabirds including albatrosses and giant petrels to be used for conservation and academic purposes
Carrying out physiology work with petrel and albatross nestlings including handling, blood sampling and isotope work
Collecting behaviour observations on nestlings of surface-nesting albatrosses and giant petrels
Monitoring nestling survival in Wandering Albatrosses
Deploying and maintaining camera traps and temperature dataloggers
Assisting with monitoring of long term study populations of petrels and albatrosses when necessary
Remote field work without direct supervision Field work will encompass 75% 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
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
Additional Notes
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 check at no cost to the applicants.
Physical fitness tests
Medical Assessments
Psychometric Assessments
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 seabirds
Experience in field surveys, research administration, data collection and management, report writing and recording
Previous experience in handling birds including ringing and blood sampling will be a distinct advantage
Experience in data management, report writing. Well versed in MS Office (or related) software programmes
Relevant field experience (previous bird work, 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, Skills and Abilities:
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.)
Closing Date: Wednesday, 11 Nov 2026
The NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities. Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant's suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.
