About the Role
The Department of Water and Sanitation is seeking a dedicated Environmental Officer Production Grade A – C based in Bloemfontein. This role is crucial for maintaining the integrity of our wastewater systems, ensuring compliance with effluent quality standards, and safeguarding our natural resources. By conducting inspections and monitoring compliance, you will play an essential part in protecting the environment and public health in the Free State province.
As an Environmental Officer, you will engage with various stakeholders, from Water Services Institutions to Catchment Management Agencies, to address issues related to wastewater management and pollution incidents. This position not only contributes to regulatory compliance but also fosters community trust in public service initiatives aimed at environmental sustainability. Your work will directly impact the quality of life for residents in Bloemfontein and beyond.
About the Department
The Department of Water and Sanitation is committed to ensuring access to safe and sustainable water resources for all South Africans. With a mission to oversee the management of water quality and resources, the department plays a pivotal role in environmental protection and sustainable development. Working here means being part of a team that values collaboration and public service, making a tangible difference in the lives of communities across the nation.
What You’ll Do
- Conduct inspections of wastewater systems and compile detailed reports with recommendations.
- Monitor compliance with wastewater effluent quality standards and prepare relevant compliance reports.
- Issue letters of non-compliance and oversee remedial actions taken by responsible parties.
- Track the loading of wastewater services data in the Integrated Regulatory Information System (IRIS).
- Prepare presentations for catchment management forums and department management.
- Assess compliance with the Green Drop regulatory programme and coordinate corrective action plans.
- Collaborate with Catchment Management Agencies on investigations of sewer spillages and pollution incidents.
- Evaluate Environmental Impact Assessments and related documentation for infrastructure development projects.
What You’ll Need
- A National Diploma in Environmental Management or Natural Sciences.
- Experience in water services management or regulation is an added advantage.
- A valid, unexpired driver’s license.
- Proficient computer skills, especially in MS Office.
- Strong skills in data analysis, presentation, communication, and technical report writing.
- A thorough understanding of the National Water Act, Water Services Act, and related legislation.
- Familiarity with the National Green Drop Program.
- Willingness to travel and drive long distances as required.
How to Apply
Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.
Requirements
A National Diploma in Environmental Management/Natural Sciences.Experience in water services management or regulation will serve as an added advantage.
The disclosure of a valid unexpired driver’s license.
Computer skills (MS Office).
Data analysis, good presentation and communication skills.
Technical report writing and professional judgement skills.
Understanding of the National Water Act, Water Services Act and related legislation.
An understanding of the National Green Drop Program.
Willingness to travel and drive long distances.
Job Duties
Conducting inspections on wastewater systems infrastructure and compilation of detailed inspection reports with recommendations.Monitoring compliance to wastewater effluent quality standards and compilation of relevant reports with recommendations.
Issuing letters of non-compliance to wastewater effluent quality standards and monitoring remedial actions.
Monitoring the loading of wastewater services data by Water Services Institutions in the Integrated Regulatory Information System (IRIS).
Compilation of presentations for catchment management forums and DWS management.
Preparations, and conducting of assessments relating to regulatory Green Drop regulatory programme.
Coordinating submission and monitoring implementation of submitted corrective action plans for the Green Drop programme.
Coordinating with Catchment Management Agencies on the investigations and reporting on sewer spillages and pollution incidents.
Monitoring compliance of onsite sanitation to relevant guidelines and regulations.
Evaluate and provide comments on Environmental Impact Assessment, Basic Assessment Reports, and Environmental Management Plans relating to infrastructure developments projects (e.
g.
housing developments, shopping centres, etc.
).
