Climate & Rangeland Science Manager

Climate and Rangeland Science Manager Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together. Conservation South Africa (CSA), as a local affiliate of Conservation International (CI), is committed to helping societies adopt a more sustainable approach to development—one that considers and values nature at every turn and improves human well-being through the conservation of healthy ecosystems and the goods and services they provide. CSA seeks to influence policy, develop markets, engage the private sector, and support communities to develop and implement conservation- based economic growth models and long-term human well-being. POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Matatiele, Eastern Cape. It is a fixed-term contract, renewable based on donor funding and performance. The contract will commence on or before 01 February 2027 and end 31 December 2028 Conservation South Africa is seeking an experienced and passionate Climate and Rangeland Science Manager to provide scientific and programme leadership across the Umzimvubu Landscape. This role offers an exciting opportunity to apply science, innovation and evidence-based decision-making to support large-scale landscape restoration, sustainable livestock production, climate resilience and community wellbeing. Working at the intersection of science, implementation and policy, you will lead a technical team and work closely with communities, grazing associations, researchers, government stakeholders and implementation partners to ensure that restoration investments deliver measurable environmental and social impact. RESPONSIBILITIES Provide scientific leadership on climate-resilient rangeland management and restoration initiatives. Lead ecological monitoring, climate adaptation and evidence-based decision-making processes Support sustainable grazing management, ecosystem restoration and landscape resilience interventions. Translate scientific and climate information into practical solutions for communities and programme teams. Build and manage relationships with research institutions, government partners, donors and other stakeholders. Lead, coach and develop a multidisciplinary technical team. Contribute to programme planning, budgeting, reporting and adaptive management processes. WORKING CONDITIONS Typical office environment in a rural landscape. Travel to programme delivery sites across the landscape is required. Ability to work extended hours or travel as needed. QUALIFICATIONS Required Bachelor of Science degree in environmental science, Ecology, Rangeland Ecology, Natural Resource Management, Agricultural Science, Climate Science, or a related field. Minimum 5-6 years of relevant professional experience in management of conservation, restoration, climate adaptation, rangeland management, or related fields. At least 2 years’ experience leading projects, teams, consultants or multidisciplinary initiatives. Experience in ecological monitoring, data analysis, landscape restoration, or applies environmental science. Strong stakeholder engagement, partnership development and communication skills. Valid South African driver’s license. Preferred Master's degree in a relevant discipline. Experience working within donor-funded conservation, climate resilience, or landscape restoration programmes. GIS, climate adaptation, or ecosystem restoration expertise. To apply for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter. Application Deadline: November 27, 2026 (11:49 PM EST) See all Conservation International Career Opportunities HERE Conservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone. Employment Equity & Legal Compliance Disclaimer We are committed to fair employment practices and abide by the Employment Equity Act (Act No. 55 of 1998, as amended) all related regulations and the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. We promote equity by eliminating unfair discrimination and affirmatively implementing measures to hire designated groups, including Black people, women, and people with disabilities. As a designated employer, we have implemented an Employment Equity Plan aligned with sectoral and national benchmarks, and we monitor and report progress annually in compliance with the Employment Equity Regulations (2025). When entering into offers or contracts with any organ of state, we comply with Section 53 of the Act by attaching either a valid Employment Equity compliance certificate or a declaration of compliance with Chapters II and III of the Act, as required. Application Outcome & Future Opportunities Should you not hear back from us within two weeks of the closing date for this advertisement, please consider your application not successful. We encourage you to apply for any future roles that align with your skill set.