About the Role
The Department of Water and Sanitation is seeking a dedicated Environmental Officer Production Grade A – C to join its team in Bellville, South Africa. This role is pivotal in implementing and enforcing key legislation related to water management and sanitation, ensuring the health and safety of our communities. As an Environmental Officer, you will be at the forefront of monitoring wastewater treatment systems, conducting inspections, and compiling detailed reports that affect the quality of life for residents.
Working closely with various Water Services Institutions, you will provide guidance and support to ensure compliance with national water acts and regulations. Your contributions will directly impact the sustainable management of water resources, making a substantial difference in the public service sector and enhancing the overall well-being of the community.
About the Department
The Department of Water and Sanitation is committed to managing South Africa’s water resources effectively and sustainably. Its mission is to provide access to clean water and sanitation for all citizens, which is essential for public health and environmental sustainability. Working at this department means being part of a dedicated team that strives to uphold the standards of water quality and safety, ensuring that every South African has access to these vital resources.
What You’ll Do
- Implement and enforce the National Water Act and Water Services Act to ensure compliance in wastewater management.
- Conduct inspections of both public and private wastewater treatment facilities to assess performance and compliance.
- Compile detailed inspection reports, feedback letters, and non-compliance notifications to facilitate necessary improvements.
- Monitor wastewater data submitted by Water Services Institutions and verify its accuracy against departmental standards.
- Provide support by reviewing and guiding the implementation of Wastewater Risk Abatement Plans (W2RAPs).
- Investigate and respond to wastewater-related complaints and pollution incidents effectively.
- Conduct audits and laboratory sampling of wastewater, analyze results, and report on water quality status.
- Participate in the implementation and monitoring of the National Green Drop Programme to enhance wastewater services.
- Represent the department in intergovernmental committees and stakeholder forums to discuss wastewater management issues.
What You’ll Need
- A National Diploma in Environmental Management or Natural Sciences.
- At least one year of relevant experience in Water Resources Management, including internships or practical learning.
- A valid driver’s license is required for fieldwork.
- Strong skills in technical report writing, policy development, and data analysis.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to engage effectively with stakeholders.
- Problem-solving and analytical skills to navigate complex environmental challenges.
- Proficiency in computer literacy and project management.
How to Apply
Please forward your application, quoting the relevant reference number, to the link quoted in the specific advertisement below.
Requirements
A National Diploma in Environmental Management or Natural Sciences.One (1) year experience in the relevant field of Water Resources Management including internship or experiential learning will serve as an added advantage.
The disclosure of valid unexpired driver’s license.
Research and development.
Knowledge and experience in project and programme management.
Understanding social and economic development issues.
Technical report writing.
Professional judgement.
Data analysis.
Policy development and analysis.
Presentation skills, creativity, mentoring, team leadership and 144 analytical skills.
Decision making.
Understanding of conflict, people and financial management.
Good communication skills both (verbal and written).
Problem solving and analysis.
Computer literacy.
Planning and organizing.
Job Duties
Implementation and enforcement of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act No.36 of 1998), Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No.
108 of 1997), relevant policies, compulsory national water and sanitation norms and standards, protocols, standard operating procedures, strategies, and Regulation 3630 in relation to wastewater management and treatment.
Perform inspections of wastewater collection and treatment systems, including public and private wastewater treatment facilities.
Compilation of detailed wastewater treatment works inspection reports, feedback letters, and non-compliance letters.
Implementation of the Water Services Regulation Operational Plan in relation to wastewater services.
Monitor and verify wastewater monitoring data submitted by Water Services Institutions on the Departmental Integrated Regulatory Information System (IRIS).
Provide guidance and support to Water Services Institutions, including reviewing Wastewater Risk Abatement Plans (W2RAPs) and monitoring the implementation thereof.
Respond to wastewater-related complaints, pollution incidents, and reported failures of wastewater treatment systems.
Conduct investigative and audit wastewater sampling for laboratory analysis, interpretation of analytical reports and compilation of wastewater quality status reports.
Participate in the implementation of the National Green Drop Programme within Water Services Institutions.
Monitor compliance and progress of corrective action plans for the National Green Drop Programme.
Monitor the operational and process performance of wastewater treatment works, including effluent quality, flow monitoring, process control, sludge management, and maintenance.
Represent the Department in various standing intergovernmental committees and stakeholder forums.
