Reptile Conservation Biologist

Reptile Conservation Biologist Ile aux Aigrettes and offshore islets (ref IRP-Reptile)

Job Brief

Main Responsibilities: Mauritius Reptile Recovery Programme

• Conduct intensive systematic searches for capturing, handling, sampling and assessing reptile health on offshore islets.
• Conduct repeated surveys to estimate the relative abundance of focal reptiles, birds and invertebrates.  
• Rearing tortoise hatchlings for future release into the wild on Ile aux Aigrettes.
• Detect, monitor, control/eradicate invasive alien species, applying strict biosecurity measures.
• Collect, enter, and analyse data to produce monthly reports.
• Lead VIP tours, student workshops, and visitor presentations on conservation efforts.
• Assist in maintaining the station and equipment, cyclone preparation and ensuring proper quarantine of materials being moved between sites.
• When required to assist and support other fauna and flora work within the Islands Restoration Programme, including scientific research

Requirements

• A degree in biological sciences, ecology, environmental science, or a related field.
• Proven keen interest in conservation and herpetology.
• Physically fit and capable of performing repetitive tasks and carrying heavy loads on steep terrain.
• Be ready to adapt to unforeseen circumstances with initiative and due care.
• Comfortable travelling by small boat in rough seas.
• Ability to work in remote and basic conditions for extended periods, including camping.
• Proficient in written and spoken English.
• Sound knowledge of spreadsheet applications and data management.
• Ideally have first aid certification and ability to swim.
• It is an advantage to hold a full clean vehicle driving license.
• Highly self-motivated and conscientious person.
• Previous experience having worked on islands conservation projects will be an advantage.
• Mauritian and Rodriguan Applicants will be selected in preference.

Location

Ile aux Aigrettes and offshore islets

Conditions

The post entails working mostly on Ile aux Aigrettes.  Eight other offshore islets are generally visited annually. When on Ile aux Aigrettes, the Conservation Biologist will be expected to live at the field station on the island from Monday to Saturday morning each week and will occasionally be asked to stay over weekends with time off in lieu.

For work on offshore islets trips may last up to two weeks, living in a tent with basic facilities and requires working during the day and at night. For trips to Round Island, it will entail working from a well-equipped field station. There is solar electricity and internet on Ile aux Aigrettes and Round Island, with portable solar systems to charge phones for connectivity when working on other offshore islets. Food is provided while working on offshore islands, except when on Ile aux Aigrettes. Time off is granted on return to the mainland.

Transport is provided for work purposes.

Rodriguan conditions: 2 return airfares payable to Rodrigues yearly and shared staff accommodation provided.

Other conditions will be further discussed at interview.

Recruitment and selection process

After reviewing applications, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted via email for interview.

How to apply

Please send a motivation letter quoting the job reference (IRP-Reptile) and your CV to given email address and fill in the questionnaire at  https://forms.office.com/r/0vUrzs5FfF

Selection will start as from 31^st October 2024 and continue until the position is filled.

Supplementary information

This position best suits those that are passionate about nature, can work under challenging conditions and in a team, can challenge themselves and are looking to gain new skills and experiences. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and encourage those from underrepresented groups to apply.

Our project

Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) endeavours to protect and safeguard the natural heritage of the Republic Mauritius from extinction through scientific conservation work and community awareness. The MWF is the pioneer and the largest non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Mauritius whose mission is to save endemic Mauritian and Rodriguan Fauna and Flora, undertake research and implement programmes to restore and manage the ecosystem, share the results with the public and protect the native species’ future.

The Mauritius Reptile Recovery Programme is run within the Island Restoration Programme. The project partners are the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF), Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust and the National Parks and Conservation Service.   

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