About the Role
The Department of Water and Sanitation is seeking a dedicated Scientist Manager Grade A to join their team at the Pretoria Head Office. This crucial role involves providing scientific leadership and strategic direction in climate change analysis, specifically tailored to South Africa’s unique water resources. Your work will directly impact the way the nation addresses climate risks, ensuring sustainable management of our water systems, which is vital for the health and wellbeing of communities across the country.
In Pretoria, you will be at the heart of governmental initiatives aimed at fostering climate-resilient water management practices. By coordinating climate vulnerability assessments and developing policies that align with both national and international standards, you will play a pivotal role in safeguarding South Africa’s water resources against the challenges posed by climate change. This role is not just a job; it is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the public service sector and the lives of South Africans.
About the Department
The Department of Water and Sanitation is dedicated to ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in South Africa. With a mandate to provide safe and clean water to all citizens, the department plays a critical role in maintaining the health of the nation’s waterways and promoting effective water use. Working here means being part of a team that is committed to innovation, sustainability, and the betterment of the public good.
As a member of this department, you will contribute to initiatives that enhance climate resilience and support national water security. This mission is crucial for not only preserving the environment but also for supporting economic development and enriching the quality of life for every South African citizen.
What You’ll Do
- Provide scientific leadership in climate change analysis related to water resources.
- Coordinate the analysis of historical and projected climate trends.
- Identify and assess emerging climate risks impacting water availability and quality.
- Lead climate vulnerability assessments at various governmental levels.
- Generate and interpret climate information for the water and sanitation sector.
- Ensure alignment of climate change responses with national and international policies.
- Develop strategic research programs addressing climate change and water issues.
- Collaborate with experts and stakeholders to foster innovative water management solutions.
What You’ll Need
- A Master of Science (MSc) degree in Climate Science, Environmental Science, Hydrology, or a related field.
- A PhD in a relevant discipline is advantageous.
- Ten years of experience in climate science or water resources management.
- Registration with SACNASP as a professional scientist is mandatory.
- Strong knowledge of integrated water resource management and climate change policies.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proven leadership and strategic decision-making abilities.
- A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel as required.
How to Apply
Please forward your application, quoting the relevant reference number, to the link quoted in the specific advertisement below.
Requirements
A Master of Science (MSc) degree (NQF Level 9) in Climate Science / Environmental Science / Hydrology / Water Resources Management / Atmospheric Science / Environmental Management / Engineering or relevant Scientific discipline.A PhD (NQF Level 10) in Climate Science/Environmental Science, Atmospheric Science, Hydrology, Water Resources Management, Atmospheric Science, Engineering or another relevant scientific discipline will be an added advantage Ten (10) years' appropriate experience in the relevant scientific field, climate science and/or the application of climate information to water resources management.
Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a professional scientist.
The disclosure of a valid unexpired driver’s licence.
Knowledge on and a clear understanding of integrated water resource management and/or water related sciences will be an added advantage.
Knowledge of international and national climate change policies, water resources, and the water sector as a whole.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written).
Good liaison and organizational skills.
Skills in financial management, decision making, strategic capability and leadership, analytical, creativity, office administration, programme and project management, scientific methodologies and models, technical report writing.
Knowledge and experience of using electronic communication platforms and 129 internet.
Applicants must be able to travel nationally and internationally as required to represent the Department and the sector.
Job Duties
The successful candidate will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following: Provide scientific leadership and strategic direction in climate change analysis within the Department.Coordinate and guide the analysis of historical and projected climate trends and their implications for South Africa's water resources.
Identify emerging climate risks and scientific developments relevant to the Department's mandate.
Coordinate climate vulnerability assessments at national, provincial, catchment, and Water Management Area (WMA) levels.
Assess the implications of climate change for water availability, water quality, droughts, floods, groundwater, water infrastructure, and water services.
Provide scientific evidence to support climate-resilient water resources planning and infrastructure development.
Lead the generation, analysis and interpretation of climate information and climate intelligence relevant to the water and sanitation sector.
Ensure alignment of the Department's climate change response with relevant national and international policy and legislative requirements.
Provide scientific and technical inputs into the development, review and implementation of climate change policies, strategies, frameworks and programmes within the water and sanitation sector.
Coordinate the identification of climate-resilient interventions for different Water Management Areas.
Promote innovative approaches to building climate-resilient water and sanitation systems.
Develop and manage strategic scientific research programmes addressing climate change and water.
Identify opportunities for collaborative research, innovation, knowledge generation and technology development.
Provide scientific advice to the Department's senior management and relevant stakeholders on climate change and water-related matters.
Establish and maintain networks of climate change and water experts.
