About the Role
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is seeking a dedicated Environmental Officer for the crucial role based on Marion Island. This position is not just a job; it’s a chance to contribute significantly to the conservation efforts of one of South Africa’s unique ecological treasures. The Environmental Officer will play a vital role in implementing biosecurity measures and promoting environmental awareness, ensuring that the delicate ecosystems of the Prince Edward Islands are protected for future generations. By working in such a remote and beautiful location, you’ll be at the forefront of environmental management, making a tangible impact on biodiversity and sustainability.
This role matters profoundly to our community and the public service as it aligns with South Africa’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. The successful candidate will be part of a team dedicated to tackling invasive species and ensuring compliance with environmental legislation, contributing to the preservation of our natural heritage. Your efforts will help maintain the integrity of the ecosystems on Marion Island, supporting both local wildlife and contributing to global environmental efforts.
About the Department
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is responsible for safeguarding South Africa’s natural resources and promoting sustainable practices. With a mandate to manage and protect the environment, the department plays a pivotal role in policy-making, enforcement, and public engagement. Working here means contributing to vital initiatives that aim to balance ecological integrity with human activity, ensuring a sustainable future for all South Africans.
What You’ll Do
- Implement biosecurity measures to protect the island’s ecosystems.
- Promote general environmental awareness and educate visitors and stakeholders.
- Execute the Alien Eradication Plan, focusing on controlling invasive plants, invertebrates, and rodents.
- Monitor compliance with Environmental Authorisations as per the EIA Regulations.
- Ensure adherence to the SANAP Waste Management Handbook and oversee country clean-up activities.
- Conduct environmental compliance audits and compile monthly and annual ECO reports.
- Manage threats to environmental integrity and contribute to ecosystem conservation efforts.
What You’ll Need
- A National Diploma in Environmental Sciences, Management, Conservation, or a comparable qualification (NQF6).
- A minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience in environmental management.
- Knowledge of Public Service procedures and Environmental Legislation.
- Experience in invasion ecology and plant identification.
- Strong skills in computer use, report writing, and interpersonal communication.
- Ability to work effectively in a team while also being capable of independent work.
- Competency in handling fieldwork under extreme weather conditions and managing diverse stakeholder relationships.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted by hand delivery during office hours to 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002 or by email [email protected].
Requirements
National Diploma in Environmental Sciences/Management/Conservation or relevant comparable qualification in Natural Sciences (NQF6) as recognised by SAQA.Minimum2 years’ experience required.
Knowledge of Public Service and Departmental procedures and prescripts and Environmental Legislation and experience in invasion ecology and plant identification.
Must have the following skills: Adequate skills in computer use, report/professional writing, computer literacy, good interpersonal relations and diplomatic skills, relationship management, stakeholder engagement, presentation, research verbal and written communication skills.
The incumbent must have the following competencies: teamwork, honesty and integrity, reliability, ability to gather and analyse information, ability to work individually and in a team, ability to walk in the field under extreme weather conditions and work under minimal supervision good interpersonal relations skills and ability to work under extreme pressure.
Ability to work with difficult persons and to resolve conflict.
Job Duties
Implement biosecurity measures and promote general environmental awareness.Implement the Alien Eradication Plan (plants, invertebrates and rodents) and the Prince Edwards Islands Management Plan and associated legislation.
Monitor compliance to Environmental Authorisations issued under the EIA Regulations for activities at the Prince Edward Islands (PEIs).
Ensure implementation of the SANAP Waste Management Handbook and undertake country clean-up activities.
Ensure environmental compliance and auditing and compile monthly and annual ECO reports.
Manage and conserve threats to environmental integrity and ecosystems.
