Living Lands is recruiting a GIS and Data Management Intern for 2026. This paid remote internship offers hands-on experience in spatial data, GIS systems, and environmental data management. Applications close 23 January 2026.
Living Lands Announces GIS and Data Management Internship for 2026
As environmental organisations increasingly rely on accurate data to drive conservation impact, skilled GIS and data professionals are becoming essential to sustainable development work. Recognising this growing need, Living Lands, a respected environmental non-profit organisation in South Africa, has opened applications for a GIS and Data Management Intern position starting in February 2026.
This internship presents a valuable opportunity for aspiring GIS specialists, environmental scientists, and data practitioners to gain practical experience while contributing to meaningful environmental and community-focused projects. With flexible remote work arrangements and potential in-person engagement for Cape Town-based candidates, the role is designed to accommodate emerging professionals seeking real-world experience in spatial data management and digital mapping systems.
About Living Lands
Living Lands is a South African environmental non-profit organisation committed to restoring ecosystems, strengthening water security, and promoting sustainable land management practices. The organisation works across communities, government bodies, and private stakeholders to implement evidence-based environmental solutions that support both ecological health and local livelihoods.
Data plays a central role in Living Lands’ operations. From mapping landscapes and monitoring restoration projects to maintaining environmental databases, the organisation relies on accurate spatial and non-spatial data to inform strategy and measure impact. The GIS and Data Management Internship forms part of this mission by supporting the organisation’s data-driven conservation efforts.
Internship Overview
The GIS and Data Management Intern role is structured as a short-term contract with flexible engagement options:
- Contract Type: 3 months full-time or 6 months part-time
- Location: Fully remote, with potential in-person engagement if based in Cape Town
- Start Date: February 2026 (ASAP)
- Salary: R12,000 per month (Full-Time Equivalent)
This internship is ideal for candidates who wish to build professional GIS experience while contributing to environmental sustainability projects across South Africa.
Key Responsibilities
The selected intern will play an important role in strengthening Living Lands’ data systems. Core responsibilities include:
- Cleaning, organising, and digitising spatial and non-spatial datasets
- Populating and maintaining environmental databases
- Supporting data quality control and verification processes
- Assisting with documentation and metadata management
- Contributing to general data-related tasks that support project implementation
Through these activities, the intern will gain hands-on exposure to real conservation datasets, professional data management standards, and applied GIS workflows.
Skills and Minimum Requirements
Living Lands is seeking a detail-oriented and self-motivated candidate with a strong interest in spatial data and environmental information systems.
Minimum Requirements:
- Proficiency in GIS software such as QGIS or ArcGIS
- Strong attention to detail and data accuracy
- Access to a personal computer or laptop with reliable internet connectivity
These essentials ensure that the intern can effectively engage in remote data management tasks from day one.
Preferred Attributes
While not mandatory, the following qualities will strengthen an application:
- A tertiary qualification (completed or in progress) in GIS, environmental science, geography, data science, or a related field
- Experience working with spatial and non-spatial datasets
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
- Residence in or near Cape Town, allowing occasional in-person collaboration if required
These attributes reflect Living Lands’ desire to support emerging professionals who are ready to apply their academic knowledge in a professional environmental setting.
Why This Internship Matters
For many early-career professionals, gaining practical GIS experience is a crucial step toward long-term employment in environmental management, conservation planning, urban development, or data analysis. This internship provides:
- Real-world exposure to conservation data systems
- Practical GIS and database management experience
- Opportunity to contribute to environmental restoration projects
- Flexible remote work arrangements
- A paid placement supporting skills development
By joining Living Lands, interns not only build technical competence but also participate in meaningful work that contributes to South Africa’s environmental resilience.
Application Process
Interested candidates are required to submit:
- A one-page CV
- A short cover letter outlining GIS and data experience by responding to two specified questions
Applications must be submitted via email to the organisation.
Email your CV and Cover Letter to [email protected]. Application deadline: 23 January at 17.00.
Application Deadline:
23 January 2026 at 17:00
Early applications are encouraged, as selection may begin before the closing date.
A Step Toward a Career in Environmental Data
The Living Lands GIS and Data Management Internship is more than a short-term role. It is an entry point into a fast-growing field where environmental science meets digital innovation. As conservation projects increasingly rely on accurate data to drive decisions, skilled GIS professionals are becoming vital contributors to sustainable development across Africa.
For candidates passionate about technology, environmental stewardship, and data accuracy, this opportunity offers a meaningful way to gain experience, build professional confidence, and contribute to real environmental change.
Final Thoughts
Living Lands continues to demonstrate its commitment to youth development and environmental innovation by offering opportunities that combine skills training with purpose-driven work. This GIS and Data Management Internship stands out as an ideal pathway for emerging professionals seeking to apply their technical abilities to conservation and sustainability efforts.
Aspiring GIS specialists and data enthusiasts are encouraged to prepare their applications and take the next step toward a career in environmental data management.
Email your CV and Cover Letter to [email protected]. Application deadline: 23 January at 17.00.
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