Applications are now open for two “sealer” and one “whaler” position on the remote Marion Island. The Island is South Africa’s sub-antarctic Indian Ocean territory in the Prince Edward Island group which is 1769km southeast of Port Elizabeth.
The islands are uninhabited except for the South African team of twenty-something researchers and support staff living on the base for a year at a time.
Per the job description, you will be required to monitor and collect data on killer whales, including behavioural observation, photographic mark-recapture, satellite device deployment, biopsy sampling and measurement.
The whaler is required to spend 65% of their time in the field, with a balance of office and laboratory work for sample management and data analysis.
The sealers will then be required to study three of the seal species that occur on the island. Most of their time will be encompassed by fieldwork, 75% to be exact with a lot of time spent walking in gumboots: about 4000 to 6000km in the contract timeframe.
The weather is always cold, rainy and windy, and the drawback is once you set foot on the island you’re not allowed to leave until the completion of your contract.
Sounds like something you’d be willing to do?
To qualify, you must have a BSc (Hons) or higher degree in a biological or environmental field, and be computer literate with experience in data management and report writing. Furthermore the ability to use standard software with a firm understanding of population ecology and statistics is a plus. Fitness is essential and you’ll also have to be mentally tough to withstand the complications that come with the job.
The duration of the contract begins on April 2023 to May 2024.
All shortlisted candidates will be rigorously screened and vetted.
For the killer whale position, you will have to produce evidence of your photography experience and firearm competency.
The annual remuneration package for each position is about R247 000 including benefits for the contract timeframe. Room and board are on the house.
Applications close on 7 November and you can apply here.
Pictures: Getaway Gallery
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