Raptor Field Technician

Classification: Part-time, temporay
Location: Western Cape, South Africa
Compensation: R1800 to R2000/day based on experience
Application Deadline: June 19, 2026

Founded in 1986, HawkWatch International is a raptor conservation nonprofit with a mission to conserve the environment through education, long-term monitoring, and scientific research on raptors as indicators of ecosystem health. As we approach 40 years of conservation, we are ready to invest in people who can help our hardworking team of educators, scientists, and administrative staff.

We are seeking a highly motivated raptor field technician to assist with fieldwork on Secretarybirds in the Western Cape and Northern Cape of South Africa. HWI's Secretarybird research includes finding and monitoring nests, installing nest cameras, and GPS tracking Secretarybirds to understand breeding success and inform conservation strategies.

Reporting to the International Programs Director, Dr. Megan Murgatroyd , the candidate will ideally be based in the Overberg (Swellendam or nearby) or Cape Town. The successful candidate should be able to plan, undertake, and report on surveys; keep databases updated; be flexible in terms of travel and hours worked; and keep good relationships with all stakeholders.

• Liaise with landowners and follow up on sightings of potential nest locations
• Install and maintain cameras and batteries to monitor nests
• Keep good records
• Assist in handling birds to fit GPS tags

• Previous experience in raptor research
• Experience working independently and as part of a team, often in remote locations
• Excellent note-taking and report-writing skills
• Full valid driver's license

• Genuine and demonstrable enthusiasm for raptors and the environment
• Flexibility to adjust hours to meet project needs
• Experience handling, ringing, or fitting GPS tags to wild birds

• Applicants must be flexible, adjusting hours and schedules to meet project needs.
• Frequent field trips will be expected.
• Field trips usually last between 5-10 days throughout the field season (August - December).
• The role is expected to require between 10-20 days per month.
• As part of our commitment to providing a safe and secure work environment, we conduct background checks on all prospective employees. These checks are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, and are designed to ensure that our hiring decisions are based on legitimate, non-discriminatory reasons.
• Key Points:
  • Consent: We obtain written consent before conducting any background check.
  • Transparency: Should any information from a background check potentially impact hiring decisions, we will provide you with a copy of the report and an opportunity to respond.
  • Non-discrimination: We apply the same standards to all candidates, regardless of race, national origin, color, sex, religion, disability, genetic information, or age.
  • Relevance: A criminal record will not automatically disqualify you from employment. We will consider the nature and timing of any offenses in relation to the job requirements.
  • Mandatory: Final approval of hiring is contingent upon completion of the background check process.

This part-time, temporary position offers monthly remuneration, based on a rate of R1800 to R2000/day based on experience. Benefits are not provided.

We believe that just as in nature, diversity in the workforce fosters adaptability, resilience, and well-being. We strive to build a team that reflects the stakeholders and communities we serve and the places we work. Our goal is to create an environment where each team member feels valued, respected, and empowered in their work.