About the Role
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is seeking a dedicated Biodiversity Officer Specialised Production: Enforcement to join their team at the Head Office in Johannesburg. This pivotal role focuses on enforcing biodiversity laws and regulations, ensuring the protection of South Africa’s rich natural heritage. The successful candidate will play an essential part in safeguarding our unique ecosystems, contributing to a sustainable future for generations to come.
As a Biodiversity Officer, you will investigate complaints related to biodiversity crimes, collaborate with various law enforcement agencies, and maintain strict confidentiality in your work. This position is crucial in upholding the integrity of biodiversity legislation, including the Nature Conservation Ordinance and the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act. By ensuring compliance and promoting awareness, you will help secure the livelihoods of communities that depend on these natural resources, making a tangible difference in the lives of South Africans.
About the Department
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is committed to conserving South Africa’s biodiversity and natural resources. Its mission involves the sustainable management of the country’s forests, fisheries, and wildlife, ensuring a balanced approach between conservation and development. Working within this department not only offers you a chance to engage in meaningful public service but also allows you to contribute to the preservation of our ecosystems for future generations.
What You’ll Do
- Investigate and resolve complaints regarding biodiversity infractions.
- Prepare detailed investigation reports and maintain records with strict confidentiality.
- Coordinate search and seizure warrants for biodiversity-related cases.
- Attend court sessions to support prosecutions in biodiversity crime cases.
- Collect, analyse, and preserve evidence for legal proceedings.
- Collaborate with various law enforcement agencies in combating biodiversity crimes.
- Conduct site inspections to verify compliance with biodiversity regulations.
- Assist other officers in identifying endangered and rare species.
What You’ll Need
- Grade 12 plus an Honours Degree (NQF Level 8) in Nature Conservation, recognized by SAQA.
- A minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in nature conservation.
- Proven experience in conducting investigations, both covert and overt.
- A valid driver’s license.
- Strong computer literacy and excellent communication skills.
- Ability to interpret and implement relevant policies and legislation.
- Conflict management skills and a strong personality.
- Completion of Environmental Management Inspector training is an advantage.
How to Apply
Please forward your application, quoting the relevant reference number, to the link quoted in the specific advertisement below.
Requirements
Grade 12 plus Honours Degree (NQF Level 8) in Nature Conservation as recognised by SAQA.Minimum of 6 years relevant experience in Nature conservation.
Experience in implementation of investigations (covert and overt) and detective work.
Valid drivers’ license.
Competencies: Computer Literacy; Good communication, writing and networking skills with stakeholders both in government and outside of government spheres; Ability and competency in interpreting and implementing policy, legislation and guidelines.
Must have a strong personality and conflict management skills.
Successfully completed Environmental Management Inspector training is an added advantage.
Job Duties
Investigate complaints received and complete investigations thereof.In-depth knowledge of Nature Conservation Ordinance, National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004 and TOPS regulations, CITES and Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977.
Write detailed investigation reports, file and maintain all records while maintaining strict confidentiality.
Coordinate search and seizure warrants for biodiversity related investigations.
Attend court cases during trail days to ensure that the NPA can prove the guiltiness of the transgressor beyond reasonable doubt and to ensure that the sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime.
Collect, analyse and preserve evidence for court.
Work with other law enforcement agencies to solve biodiversity crimes.
Good organizational and time-management skills.
Excellent interviewing and interrogation skills.
Undertake site inspections to ascertain compliance and submit reports thereof to Biodiversity Control.
Assist other Biodiversity Officers and SAPS on various endangered and rare species of wild fauna and flora species identification.
Assist Biodiversity Control in ensuring that the unit project are undertaken timeously and appropriately.
Ensure that reports are written according to the Departmental standards.
