Wild Impact Youth Opportunity 2026: Biodiversity and Conservation Data Internship for South African Graduates
Wild Impact is recruiting youth aged 18–27 for a biodiversity conservation role involving camera trap data analysis, GIS, and ecological research. Apply by 23 April 2026 through SAYouth or email.
The Wild Impact has announced a youth-focused opportunity aimed at supporting biodiversity conservation and ecological research in South Africa. This initiative targets young graduates passionate about environmental science, wildlife conservation, and data-driven ecological analysis. The role combines field-related research insights with advanced analytical tools, offering hands-on exposure to conservation science and sustainability initiatives.
The opportunity aligns with youth employment objectives and provides structured experience in biodiversity monitoring, conservation planning, and environmental data analysis. Successful applicants will work with cutting-edge technologies, including AI-supported species identification tools, while contributing to real-world conservation outcomes.
Role Overview
The selected candidate will be responsible for managing and analysing large volumes of camera trap data. This involves sorting, cleaning, verifying, and interpreting wildlife images captured in conservation landscapes. The role also includes the use of machine learning-supported tools such as TrapTagger to assist with species identification and biodiversity assessments.
In addition to data analysis, the intern will support the development of statistical methods used to assess species abundance, habitat selection, and co-occurrence patterns. These analytical insights contribute to conservation planning and decision-making processes that aim to protect ecosystems and wildlife populations.
Spatial analysis is another key component of the role. The successful candidate will conduct GIS-based investigations to evaluate biodiversity patterns and understand the impact of land-use practices on wildlife. This work is critical in identifying conservation priorities and informing landscape-level strategies. 📊
Key Responsibilities
The position includes a range of technical and research-based responsibilities, such as:
- Managing and analysing large camera trap datasets
- Using AI-supported tools for wildlife species identification
- Supporting statistical modelling for biodiversity analysis
- Conducting GIS-based spatial analysis of conservation data
- Researching ecological topics to generate insights for reporting
- Contributing to environmental education content for schools
- Supporting landscape conservation initiatives
- Assisting with carbon-related work, including greenhouse gas calculations
These tasks provide exposure to both research and applied conservation work, making the role ideal for candidates interested in science-based environmental solutions.
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must meet specific academic and professional criteria to be considered. These include:
- An Honours or Master’s degree in Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Conservation/Wildlife Management, or a related discipline
- Strong wildlife identification skills, including distinguishing between similar species
- Demonstrated interest in biodiversity conservation and ecological research
- Proficiency in GIS analysis for ecological or biological research
- Experience managing large datasets
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- High attention to detail
- Ability to work independently and within a team
- Excellent communication skills in English
A passion for working with communities and the natural environment is also considered essential for success in this role.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following general requirements:
- Must be South African-born African, Coloured, or Indian youth as defined in the BBBEE Act
- Must be between 18 and 27 years old before 1 May 2026
- Must have Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent qualification
- Must be unemployed at the time of placement
- Must not have previously participated in the YES Programme
- Must have or be willing to obtain a tax number
- Must provide certified copies of ID and supporting documents
- Must have or be willing to obtain a police clearance certificate
- Must demonstrate proficiency in English (spoken, written, and reading)
Preference may be given to candidates based in Gauteng, although applicants from across South Africa are encouraged to apply.
Advantageous Experience
While not mandatory, the following experience will strengthen applications:
- Exposure to carbon accounting or carbon capture initiatives
- Experience developing environmental education content
- Previous involvement in conservation projects or biodiversity research
These additional skills align with the organization’s broader conservation and sustainability objectives.
Remuneration and Duration
Remuneration will be aligned with the South African National Minimum Wage. The programme offers valuable experience in conservation science and provides participants with practical exposure to environmental data analysis and ecological research methodologies.
Application Process
Applications can be submitted through the SAYouth link or via email to [email protected]. Applicants must clearly indicate the position they are applying for in the subject line.
Required documents include:
- Detailed CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Academic qualifications
- Supporting documentation
The closing date for applications is 23 April 2026. Candidates who do not receive feedback within 14 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Why This Opportunity Matters
This role offers young graduates an opportunity to contribute to biodiversity conservation while building technical skills in ecological research, GIS, and data analytics. Participants will gain experience working with AI-driven conservation tools and supporting initiatives that influence environmental decision-making.
The programme is particularly valuable for candidates interested in wildlife conservation, sustainability, and environmental research careers. By working on real-world conservation challenges, successful applicants will develop practical expertise that enhances future employment opportunities within the environmental sector.
Graduates passionate about biodiversity conservation and ecological data analysis are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline to take advantage of this unique youth-focused opportunity.
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