Senior Specialist: Land Use, Land Use Change And Forestry – Pretoria – Department Of Forestry, Fisheries And The Environment

About the Role

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is looking for a Senior Specialist in Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry based in Pretoria. This pivotal role is essential for advancing South Africa’s efforts in environmental management, particularly when it comes to understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change. By compiling and maintaining data on land use and forestry, you will be directly contributing to the safeguarding of our natural resources and the promotion of sustainable development practices that benefit both communities and ecosystems.

In this role, you will be responsible for leading the compilation and annual review of South Africa’s National Greenhouse Gas Inventory, focusing specifically on land use and forestry. Your work will not only enhance the government’s capability to track and report emissions, but also ensure compliance with international standards, thereby playing a crucial part in the broader fight against climate change. Your efforts will resonate within the community, fostering a healthier environment for future generations.

About the Department

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is dedicated to the sustainable management of South Africa’s natural resources. Its mission is to develop and implement policies that promote environmental conservation and sustainable practices across various sectors. Working within this department means being part of a team that values ecological integrity and the well-being of our society, making a tangible difference in the lives of South Africans.

What You’ll Do

• Compile and review the Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry Inventory to ensure accurate emissions data.
• Lead the annual compilation of the LULUCF component of South Africa’s National Greenhouse Gas Inventory.
• Identify data requirements for emissions estimation within the LULUCF sector.
• Collect, collate, and validate data for the Forest and Other Land Use sector.
• Conduct quality assurance and control processes to maintain data integrity.
• Compile reports on LULUCF emissions and implement greenhouse gas improvement programs.
• Review carbon sequestration submissions from GHG reporting entities for compliance with Carbon Tax regulations.
• Oversee independent verification schemes for carbon sequestration.
• Collaborate with industries to enhance transparency in reporting by timber growers.
• Develop and maintain land-use change datasets and matrices.
• Analyse mitigation actions using geospatial and land-use data.
• Provide support for the implementation of the Climate Change Act and facilitate national and international reporting.

What You’ll Need

• A Master’s Degree (NQF 9) in Forestry, Natural Resource Sciences, Environmental Management, or a related field.
• At least five years of relevant experience in environmental management or a related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of global and local environmental and development issues.
• Proficiency in emissions and sequestration processes, land-use and land-cover platforms.
• Familiarity with South Africa’s greenhouse gas emissions profile and climate change mitigation strategies.
• Excellent analytical, organisational, and report writing skills.
• Ability to conduct research and provide data analysis.
• Strong communication skills, both written and spoken.

How to Apply

All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/