Field Station Manager at University of the Witwatersrand

The Position

• To lead the transformation of Pullen Nature Reserve into a financially sustainable, nationally and internationally recognized biological field station. The Field Station Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management and operations of Pullen Nature Reserve, including facility operations, veld and wildlife management, staff supervision, academic and research support, and stakeholder relations.
• The position requires ensuring safe and effective facility operations for students, researchers, and visitors, and maintaining the reserve as a critical resource for field-based education and research in organismal biology, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem management.

Brief Description        

Minimum Requirements:

• BSc Honours or higher certificate in Nature Conservation, Wildlife Management, Environmental Science or related field
• At least 3 years' work-related experience
• Valid driving license
• First Aid certificate

Key Competencies:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organisational and time management abilities
• Strong understanding of South African conservation legislation
• Knowledge of savanna ecology, veld and fire management
• Regional knowledge of Mpumalanga lowveld biodiversity will be an added advantage
• Competence in GIS and spatial data collection for habitat monitoring and reserve management
• Ability to lead and manage others
• Practical, hands-on approach to problem solving

Key Performance Areas:

• Oversee day-to-day operations including accommodation, catering, visitor services; supervise infrastructure maintenance; ensure facility readiness; coordinate with university support services; manage booking systems; ensure regulatory compliance.
• Build relationships with neighboring landowners and conservancy members; secure MOUs for access; engage with local communities; represent Pullen at forums and conferences, as appropriate.
• Develop operational budgets; implement revenue generation strategies; market Pullen to institutions; achieve financial sustainability targets.
• Develop veld management plans; control invasive plants; plan-controlled burning; monitor ecosystem health; liaise with neighbours on game management.
• Supervise, train and develop support staff; manage performance and HR matters; promote safe working practices.

Working Conditions

• Live-in position at Pullen Field Station, Mpumalanga (on-site accommodation provided)
• Irregular working hours including weekends and holidays
• Outdoor work in varying weather conditions
• After-hours emergency response capability required
• Occasional travel to Johannesburg for meetings

Closing date: 15 July 2026