About the Role
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning is seeking a dedicated Environmental Officer for Environmental Empowerment based in the vibrant city of Durban, which serves as a key hub in the Ethekwini District. This role is crucial in fostering environmental awareness and education within the community, ensuring that sustainable practices are not just talked about but actively implemented. Working within this department, you will be at the forefront of promoting environmental stewardship, helping to build a more sustainable future for all South Africans.
In this impactful position, your primary responsibility will be to lead and implement various environmental awareness and education programs. These initiatives are essential for integrating environmental education into formal education structures like schools and higher education institutions. You’ll also have the opportunity to work closely with the community, facilitating natural resource management projects that promote sustainability and community involvement. Your efforts will directly benefit the public, enhancing their understanding and engagement with environmental issues that affect their lives.
About the Department
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning plays a pivotal role in the conservation and sustainable management of South Africa’s natural resources. Its mission is to ensure that development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. By joining this department, you will contribute to a mission that not only protects the environment but also enhances the quality of life for all citizens, making your role a significant one in public service.
What You’ll Do
- Promote and implement programs aimed at raising environmental awareness within the community.
- Develop educational initiatives to integrate environmental education into formal schooling and training systems.
- Identify and facilitate capacity-building programs for the public and stakeholders through workshops and online platforms.
- Manage community-based projects focused on natural resource management and environmental sustainability.
- Provide administrative support and foster internal cooperation to enhance departmental efficiency.
What You’ll Need
- An appropriate Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Natural Science, or Geography at NQF7, as recognized by SAQA.
- A minimum of one year of relevant experience or a strong passion for environmental education and capacity building.
- A valid driver’s license.
- Knowledge of Environmental Legislation, particularly the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA).
- Skills in project management, workshop facilitation, and effective information management.
- Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, alongside a proactive problem-solving attitude.
How to Apply
Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.
Requirements
The ideal candidate must have: An appropriate Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Natural Science, or Geography at NQF7 as recognized by SAQA.A minimum of one (1) year of relevant experience as an Environmental Management intern, or a demonstration of affinity or passion for environmental education, awareness, and capacity building, will serve as an added advantage.
A valid driver’s license.
Skills, Training, And Competencies: The successful candidate must have practical knowledge of Environmental Legislation (NEMA), including an understanding of the objectives and provisions of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998, and associated legislation.
Knowledge of Project Management, Facilitation of workshops, and Information Management protocols.
Knowledge and understanding of the Republic of South Africa Constitution, National Environmental Management Act, Public Service Act, Public Service Regulations, Public Finance Management Act, Labour Relations Act, Community Development, Public Participation, Community Outreach, Project Management principles, Millennium Development Goals, National Youth Development Agency Act, Youth Development Policy, Promotion of Access to Information Act, Service Delivery Framework, National Development Plan, Provincial Growth and Development Plan, National Environmental Education policy.
Skills: Organizational planning skills; analytical thinking; project management; computer literacy; report writing; research skills; presentation skills; decision-making; people management; strategic planning skills; Conflict management; interpersonal relations; problem-solving; communication skills (verbal and written).
Job Duties
The incumbent will be required to: Promote and implement environmental awareness programs implement environmental education programs to assist with the implementation of environmental education into formal education structures (such as schools, SETAs, AET, Higher Education, etc).Identify and implement environmental capacity building programs for the general public and stakeholders through physical interaction and/or web conferencing Develop and implement community-based natural resource management and environmental action projects for sustainable development Perform administrative support and internal cooperation.
