About the Role
The Western Cape Government is seeking a dedicated Environmental Officer (Specialised Production): Response to join its team. This vital role is based in Cape Town, where the successful candidate will contribute to critical climate change initiatives that directly impact the community and environment. By supporting research projects such as Climate Change Adaptation and Gender Mainstreaming, you will play an important part in shaping a sustainable future for the region and its inhabitants.
In this role, you will lead various projects and collaborations aimed at raising awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of climate change issues. Your efforts will not only provide essential support to local municipalities but also help integrate climate change strategies into broader government policies. This position is crucial for enhancing public service in South Africa, as it aligns with the national commitment to environmental sustainability and community resilience.
About the Department
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning is dedicated to the sustainable management of natural resources and the environment. Its mission is to promote policies and practices that enhance environmental integrity and support climate resilience across communities in the Western Cape. Working here means being part of a passionate team that aims to make a meaningful difference in how South Africa addresses environmental challenges.
What You’ll Do
- Provide support and lead research projects focused on climate change and gender issues.
- Contribute technical expertise in developing concept notes and project proposals.
- Assist with communication efforts, including website updates and awareness materials.
- Maintain and update the climate change response projects database.
- Develop and deliver presentations on climate change responses to various stakeholders.
- Organise meetings, seminars, and awareness events related to climate change.
- Participate in strategic planning and programming at different organisational levels.
- Support municipal engagement and reporting on climate change initiatives.
- Compile the Western Cape Climate Change Response Biennial Monitoring and Evaluation Report.
- Conduct pilot climate budget tagging for municipalities to gather data on climate-related finance.
- Facilitate the integration of climate change into sector strategies and stakeholder group programmes.
- Assist in the development and review of climate adaptation projects and related policies.
- Engage in research and knowledge management to enhance climate change initiatives.
- Seek additional funding and explore financing opportunities for climate projects.
- Manage projects effectively to ensure successful implementation.
What You’ll Need
- An appropriate 4-Year Honours Degree in Natural, Physical, or Environmental Sciences or relevant Engineering qualification.
- A valid Code B (or higher) driving licence.
- Working knowledge of climate change research and implementation activities.
- Strategic thinking skills and a passion for environmental issues.
- Experience in developing and implementing policies, strategies, and action plans.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and research skills.
- Strong project management abilities and experience in report writing.
- Ability to work independently while also being a collaborative team member.
How to Apply
All applications must be hand delivered at: 389 Sophie De Bruyn Street, Pretoria. To submit an application online, click the link under the post you wish to apply for. Attach only a copy of CV and completed Z83.
Requirements
An appropriate 4 Year Honours Degree in Natural, Physical or Environmental Sciences or relevant Engineering qualification or equivalent; A valid Code B (or higher) driving license.Note: People with disabilities that restrict driving abilities 180 but have reasonable access to transport may also apply.
Competencies: Working knowledge of the following: Climate Change research and implementation activities; Strategic thinking and passionate about environmental issues; Development and or the implementation of policies, legislation, strategies, action plans, guidelines and environmental norms and standards; Mainstreaming and capacity building climate change programmes; Development and rollout of budgeting, financing and funding models.
Skills in the following: Excellent communications (written, verbal and presentation) skills; Computer literacy in MS Office Packages (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); Internet use skills including research and appropriate ethical use of Artificial Intelligence; Project Management; Research and Report Writing; Strategic Planning; Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Job Duties
Provide support to / lead on research projects (e.g.
Climate Change Adaptation and Gender Mainstreaming); Making technical contributions to the development of concept notes and project proposals; Assist with communication and awareness-raising for the unit (i.
e.
website updates, awareness materials, case studies, presentations); Maintain and keep up to date climate change response projects database; Develop presentations on climate change responses & deliver them to government, civil society and business; Organise meetings, climate change awareness events, seminars and conferences; Participate in Strategic planning and programmes at the Chief Directorate and Directorate level; Supporting the Climate Change Municipal Support Programme, Municipal IDP reviews, the departmental municipal support programme reporting requirements, SIME, TIME and ad-hoc engagements; Respond to ad-hoc climate change matters arising within the Departmental (i.
e.
Attend, provide input and report back of relevant forums and events, inputs into minister’s monthly report, sub directorate meetings); Compile the Westen Cape Climate Change Response Biennial M&E Report (Data acquisition); Undertake Pilot Climate Budget Tagging for the municipalities for the purpose of project data collection and climate related finance determination for the financial year; Support the integration of climate change into sector and stakeholder group strategies and programmes; Provide support on the development, implementation and review of the Western Cape Climate Change Adaptation Pathway project; Assist in commenting on the policy, legislation and ministerial queries relating to adaptation and climate resilience; Support with research and knowledge management; Contribute to sourcing additional funding for climate change projects and explore financing mechanisms and opportunities with other stakeholders in the climate change space; Project Management.
