GIS Mapping Internship – Wildlife Conservation – South Africa

Are you a student or recent graduate with exceptional ArcGIS or QGIS skills? Do you want to use your expertise to contribute to wildlife conservation while working in a breathtaking natural environment? The Bushveld Biodiversity Research Centre (BBRC) is offering an exciting 3-month internship where you can make a meaningful impact while refining your research and technical skills.

About Us

The BBRC is located on a 27,000-hectare wildlife reserve—home to 17 antelope species and two of the Big Five—dedicated to biodiversity research and preservation. Our work spans diverse projects, including giraffe population monitoring, bird habitat research, vegetation studies, and documenting wildflowers, butterflies, and other insects. We’re now seeking someone to enhance our mapping efforts and support our research with GIS technology.

Overview

As a GIS intern, you’ll play a vital role in creating and refining detailed reserve maps, as well as updating project-specific maps and layers. This is a unique opportunity to merge technical expertise with conservation efforts.

Your role will include:

• Map Creation and Updates: Use ArcGIS or QGIS to bring more detail to our reserve maps and create layered maps for individual research projects.
• Data Integration: Collaborate with researchers to integrate project-specific data into the GIS framework, such as tracking wildlife movements or habitat preferences.
• Project Support: Join ongoing mini-projects, applying your GIS expertise to enhance research on biodiversity, vegetation zones, or species distribution.
• Knowledge Sharing: Provide input on how GIS tools can improve the efficiency and impact of our conservation efforts.

What Makes This Internship Special

In addition to using and improving your GIS skills, you’ll have the chance to:

• Work in an environment surrounded by untouched natural beauty and incredible wildlife.
• Join fieldwork alongside researchers, integrating GIS tools into practical conservation projects.
• Contribute directly to meaningful biodiversity research in a largely understudied region.

What We’re Looking For

• A student or recent graduate skilled in ArcGIS or QGIS.
• A passion for conservation and an interest in applying GIS to support wildlife research.
• Experience in creating detailed maps and managing spatial data.
• A proactive approach to work, with strong problem-solving skills.

Duration of Stay

Flexible | We recommend a commitment of 3+ months to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Conservation Fees and Logistics

A monthly conservation fee is required, covering:

• Support for ongoing conservation efforts in the reserve
• Shared accommodation within the reserve
• Transport services: Pick-up from and drop-off at the Polokwane airport | Bi-weekly town trips for supplies