About the Role
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning is seeking an Environmental Officer Specialised Production Land-Based to join their dedicated team in Cape Town. This vital role focuses on regulating the discharge of effluent into estuaries and coastal waters, ensuring the protection of South Africa’s beautiful natural resources. By contributing to coastal pollution initiatives and engaging in essential environmental impact assessments, you will play a significant part in safeguarding the health of our ecosystems for future generations.
Working in the heart of Cape Town, you will be at the forefront of addressing marine pollution and supporting the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability. This position not only demands technical expertise but also offers the opportunity to engage with various stakeholders, making a tangible impact on your community and the broader public service landscape.
About the Department
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning is committed to promoting sustainable development through the effective management of environmental resources. Its mission encompasses the protection of South Africa’s unique biodiversity and ecosystems while ensuring compliance with national and international environmental regulations. Working within this department means being part of a team dedicated to fostering a healthier environment, contributing to the overall well-being of all South Africans.
What You’ll Do
- Regulate the discharge of effluent into estuaries and coastal waters.
- Support departmental initiatives aimed at reducing coastal pollution.
- Represent the Directorate in environmental impact assessment processes and relevant forums.
- Provide technical support for compliance and enforcement related to land-based sources of marine pollution.
- Engage in data and information management to monitor marine water quality.
- Draft reports and communicate findings to stakeholders effectively.
What You’ll Need
- An Honours Degree in Natural or Environmental Management/Sciences or a relevant qualification recognized by SAQA.
- A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a related field.
- Extensive knowledge of South African coastal and marine pollution management.
- Strong understanding of integrated coastal management principles and relevant legislation.
- Proficient in data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Project management skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team.
How to Apply
Please refer to the application instructions below.
Requirements
Honours Degree in Natural or Environmental Management/Sciences (NQF Level 6) or relevant qualification as recognised by SAQA.3 years’ experience in a related field.
Extensive knowledge of the South African coast, marine and coastal pollution management, integrated coastal management, coastal processes, coastal management principles and national and international coastal policies and legislation.
Knowledge of marine water quality and environmental monitoring techniques and management.
Knowledge and understanding of data and information management.
The ability to interpret and apply coastal and related legislation and policies, including the NEM: ICMA, NEMA, NEM: WA and NEM: BA Regulations, National Water Act, Minerals Act, international treaties and conventions, national and provincial laws, and departmental protocols.
Functioning of coastal ecosystems and the impacts of human activity on those systems.
Integrated Environmental Management and Environmental Impact Assessment.
UNEP commitments, GPA programme, Regional Seas Conventions and related projects.
Government administration and financial procedures.
Project management.
Public Service Regulation and Departmental procedures and prescripts.
Background in Physical Sciences, Natural Sciences or Environmental Sciences.
Sound organising and planning skills.
Project management.
Effective communicator.
Analytical thinking.
Scientific writing & reporting.
Computer literacy.
Driving.
Multitasking.
Networking and stakeholder engagement.
Ability to work under pressure.
Ability to meet tight deadlines, while maintaining good work quality.
Good communication skills (written, oral and graphic).
Willingness and ability to travel 73 (at times on short notice).
Ability to draft, interpret and apply policy and legislation.
Ability to formulate solutions through analytical and innovative thinking.
Ability to deal tactfully and efficiently with telephonic enquiries from members of the public.
Ability to work within a team and individually.
Ability to collect and analyse data and information.
Good interpersonal skills.
Proactive & honest.
Conflict resolution.
Job Duties
The incumbent will be responsible to regulate the discharge of effluent into estuaries and coastal waters.Provide support to Departmental coastal pollution initiatives and other related projects.
Represent the Directorate’s interests in EIA processes, relevant consultative forums, and other relevant structures to ensure good governance.
Provide technical support to compliance and enforcement processes with specific focus on land-based sources of marine pollution.
