Round Island Conservation Biologist

Round Island Conservation Biologists

As Round Island Wardens

Open to Mauritian and Overseas Applicants (ref RICB)

Qualification: University Degree or 3 years island conservation experience

Age: +21yrs old

We are seeking passionate and dedicated Round Island Conservation Biologists to join our Islands Restoration Programme. As a key member of our team, you will work alongside two other Conservation Biologists, contributing to the conservation efforts on Round Island. This role is integral to our four-decade-long restoration work and offers the opportunity to engage in international research and collaborate with a diverse team of experts.

Job Brief

Supporting all aspects of our Island Restoration Programme on Round Island.

Gain a unique experience in the conservation of invertebrates, reptiles, seabirds and plants, and the control and removal of invasive species.

Collaborating within a dynamic field team from various backgrounds operating at multiple sites.

Interesting package based on experience and qualification.

Main Responsibilities

• Support the multidisciplinary work with the main conservation theme of habitat restoration, while maintaining biosecurity and monitoring the response of flora and fauna.
  • Flora work primarily focuses on planning, supervising and carrying out plant propagation and nursery management, planting and aftercare, monitoring of rare species and planting sites and the detection/control/removal of invasive plants on the island.
  • Fauna work mostly targets ongoing monitoring and handling of the threatened endemic reptiles and native seabirds such as pit tagging snakes and ringing of seabirds.
  • Daytime and nighttime surveys as required for projects on the island.
• Accurate data collection/entry, maintaining datasets and reporting are a necessity.
• Ensure the continued operation of all island functions by maintaining infrastructure, equipment and tools, organising changeovers, and ensuring biosecurity measures are maintained.
• Coordinating and participating in the day to day work on the island and the execution of work plans while adhering to protocols
• The preparation and submission of monthly and yearly reports on all activities carried out
• Supporting the work of other conservation biologists specialised in giant tortoise and reptile work, visiting researchers, facilitating research projects of students and interns.
• Assisting in the induction, training, supervision and safety of all individuals on the island.
• Maintaining a good working relationship with all stakeholders (government, national and international partners)

Work on the mainland includes:

1. Planning subsequent trips to Round Island
2. Organising the logistics, acquisition and purchases of all materials and supplies required for the project
3. Attending relevant meetings
4. Supporting other island restoration work upon request
5. Data management, analyses, reporting and the preparation of other related documents

Requirements

• Not less than 21 years old.
• Only candidates with a degree in biological sciences or related fields will be considered unless they can demonstrate at least 3 years conservation experience in a similar field.
• Experience in horticulture, flora conservation and restoration preferred, and additional fauna conservation, restoration and research will be an advantage.
• Be physically fit for working in tough remote conditions and be able to travel by boat.
• Ability to self-motivate and stay focused on repetitive work in the day and at night.
• Be ready to adapt to unforeseen circumstances with initiative and due care.
• Have good written and spoken English.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Have a sound knowledge of spreadsheet applications and data management.
• Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively.
• Experience of working in remote conditions for long periods of time is desirable.
• Preferably have a clean driving license for car and/or motorbike.
• Be a good swimmer
• Possess first aid certification or preferably wilderness first aid.
• Be flexible with working outside of normal operating hours when required.

Location

Primarily on Round Island on a work rotation of one month on the island (subject to weather delays), and two weeks on the mainland, with one week off and one week working.

Conditions

This is a paid position with a duration of 12 months.  The contract can be renewed for a further 12 months on mutual agreement.  Other conditions will be discussed during the interview. 

The post entails living in the field station or a tent while on Round Island. There is solar electricity and internet at the field station. Food is provided while on Round island and transport is provided for work purposes.  Accommodation is provided when on the mainland.

Recruitment and selection process

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

Apply now

Please send a motivation letter quoting the job reference (RICB) and your CV to [email protected] and fill in the questionnaire at https://forms.office.com/r/bfqzSC4fY5 .    Selection will start as from November 3^rd, 2026, is ongoing and will continue until the position is filled. 

Supplementary information

This position best suits those that are passionate about nature and conservation, can work under challenging conditions 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 of Mauritius from extinction through scientific conservation work and community awareness. The MWF is the pioneer and largest non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Mauritius whose mission is the conservation and preservation of the nation's endangered plant and animal species.

Round Island project is managed within the Island Restoration Programme.  The project partners are the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, the National Parks and Conservation Service and the Forestry Service. 

Round Island is one of the few places in the Indian Ocean to have remained free from non-native and invasive predatory mammals and reptiles. For this reason, Round Island became the last location in the Mascarenes to support endemic and native invertebrates, reptiles, seabirds, and plants that have declined or become extinct elsewhere. However, introduced herbivores almost denuded the island’s vegetation, threatening the existence of its unique biodiversity. Herbivores were removed by the 1980s, which led to the recovery of the palm-rich habitat. Since 2002, there has been a permanent presence of conservation staff who monitor the fauna and flora, and work to restore the island’s lost plant species. These actions have been important for rebuilding the unique ecosystem on Round Island.

TAKE ON THIS EXCITING OPPORTUNITY AND MAKE THIS MISSION YOUR OWN

APPLY HERE