Application Guide

How to Apply for Consultant

at PANTHERA

🏢 About PANTHERA

PANTHERA is a global wild cat conservation organization uniquely focused exclusively on protecting all 40 species of wild cats and their ecosystems. Unlike broader conservation groups, they combine cutting-edge science with on-the-ground action against poaching and illegal wildlife trade. Working here offers the chance to contribute directly to saving critically endangered species like the Andean cat through specialized, evidence-based conservation strategies.

About This Role

This consultant role involves leading a feasibility study to identify landscape-scale conservation sites for the Andean cat in Chile, requiring synthesis of ecological, social, and land use data into integrated maps. You'll engage directly with local communities, indigenous groups, and government agencies to build partnerships and gather insights. The impact lies in producing a comprehensive report that will guide PANTHERA's future conservation investments and potentially secure critical habitat for this endangered species.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing GIS data to model Andean cat habitat connectivity in the morning, followed by virtual meetings with Chilean government agencies or local NGOs to discuss potential collaboration sites. Afternoons could include synthesizing social data from community consultations and drafting sections of the feasibility report, with occasional field visits to candidate sites when travel is possible.

🎯 Who PANTHERA Is Looking For

  • Holds an M.Sc. in ecology, conservation biology, or landscape planning with demonstrated experience analyzing camera trap data and ecological/social datasets
  • Possesses strong GIS and spatial analysis skills, specifically in landscape connectivity modeling relevant to carnivore conservation
  • Fluent in both Spanish and English with proven ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders including indigenous communities and government agencies
  • Has direct experience collaborating with local communities and indigenous groups in conservation contexts, particularly in Latin America

📝 Tips for Applying to PANTHERA

1

Highlight specific experience with Andean cat or high-altitude carnivore conservation in your resume, as this is a specialized role

2

Include concrete examples of GIS projects where you analyzed landscape connectivity for wildlife, preferably with maps or visualizations you can share

3

Demonstrate your Spanish proficiency explicitly - consider submitting a Spanish version of your cover letter or including Spanish-language references

4

Reference PANTHERA's specific conservation approach in your materials, showing you understand their science-based, partnership-driven model

5

Quantify your community engagement experience - how many communities have you worked with, what specific participatory methods have you used?

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific experience with camera trap data analysis and spatial modeling for carnivore conservation', 'Demonstrated success in building partnerships with indigenous groups and local communities in conservation contexts', "Understanding of the Andean cat's conservation challenges and how landscape-scale approaches can address them", 'Examples of synthesizing complex ecological and social data into actionable conservation recommendations']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • PANTHERA's existing Andean cat program and their previous work in Chile and neighboring countries
  • The current conservation status of the Andean cat, its range, and major threats specific to Chile
  • Key stakeholders in Chilean conservation including government agencies (CONAF), local NGOs, and indigenous groups in the Andes
  • PANTHERA's specific conservation criteria and methodologies from their published reports or website

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience analyzing camera trap data for elusive carnivores and how you would apply this to Andean cat conservation
2 How would you approach engaging indigenous communities in the Andes who may have traditional knowledge about the Andean cat?
3 Walk us through your process for evaluating landscape connectivity for a wide-ranging species like the Andean cat
4 What specific criteria would you prioritize when evaluating potential conservation collaboration sites in this context?
5 How would you handle conflicting land use priorities between conservation goals and local community needs?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with only generic conservation experience without demonstrating specific carnivore or Andean ecosystem expertise
  • Failing to show Spanish language proficiency or experience working in Latin American conservation contexts
  • Presenting yourself as primarily a desk-based researcher without evidence of field work or community engagement experience

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to PANTHERA!