Job Description

This position is suited to a dedicated conservationist who would like to contribute meaningfully to the conservation of biodiversity through protected area management, protected area expansion, compliance and law enforcement, support for eco-tourism and access, environmental learning and stakeholder relations within the Ceder-Berg Landscape Unit, specifically responsible for Groot Winterhoek Nature Reserve Complex. The successful candidate will report to the Landscape Unit Manager, Ceder-Berg Landscape Unit (West Landscape).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Enhance biodiversity resilience through targeted ecosystem conservation and restoration initiatives

Targeted conservation and restoration initiatives and interventions informed by knowledge and management best practice are implemented.
Protected Area is managed according to a management plan and prioritized action plans.
Priority landscapes are protected, restored and conserved.
Conservation operations are optimized through planned METT actions and interventions.
Priority ecological infrastructure areas are restored and protected.

Lead landscape conservation and stewardship in ways that address biodiversity loss.

Biodiversity legal mandate is implemented through compliance and enforcement actions.
Protected area expansion planning priorities and associated conservation intelligence are implemented.
Actions to improve the conservation status of priority species and ecosystems are implemented.
Functional partnerships addressing biodiversity loss are developed and maintained.
Landscape ecological and human well-being is promoted through a landscape environmental interpretation and awareness plan.

Promote the biodiversity economy, and enhance biodiversity access and sustainable use

Job opportunities are created through implementation of Natural Resource Management programmes.
Contractor development and work opportunities are enhanced through environmental programmes implemented (Integrated Catchment Management, Expanded Public Works).
Sustainable harvesting of natural products is facilitated.
Biodiversity economy activities are implemented in identified nodes.
Livelihood support is established for local communities.

Advocate for behavioural change and promote voluntary compliance

Local community involvement in Protected Area management is established.
Stakeholder engagement is enhanced through targeted interventions.
Public Private Partnerships are maintained.
Compliance plans for On Reserve components are in place.

Assume overall accountability for ensuring performance, governance and risk management

An enabling environment is created for formal partnerships to mitigate risks to biodiversity.
Management structures are in place and infrastructure is fit for purpose.
All relevant Occupational Health and Safety legislation, policies and standards are in place and adhered to.
Governance is enhanced by adherence to corporate policies and standards.
Performance is enhanced through effective and efficient staff performance.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

National Diploma in Nature Conservation / equivalent qualification at NQF 6 in a Nature Conservation field
Five years’ management experience in the Conservation Sector
Incident Command Training (ICS 100, ICS 200)
Thorough working knowledge of MS Office and GIS.
A valid EB (08) driver’s license, willingness to travel regularly and ability to drive on 4x4 terrain
Bilingualism in at least 2 of the official languages of the Western Cape
No criminal record.
Physical fitness to perform duties in rugged mountainous terrain

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Post-graduate Degree in Nature Conservation, Natural Sciences and/or Sustainable Development will be advantageous.
IC Type 5 Single Resource / Fire Boss Level 1 or Position Specific ICS Training
Experience in Fynbos Fire Management & Alien Vegetation Management
Proven track record of managing a protected area and sound interpersonal, communication and people management skills
Strong leadership and conflict resolution skills
Exceptional ability to work effectively within teams (as a leader and as team member)
Proven written and communication skills
Exceptional financial management skills
Project Management experience in landscape conservation, world heritage site management, disaster management and/or landscape partnerships will be advantageous.
World heritage site management, disaster management and/or landscape partnerships will be advantageous.

Competencies

Effective people management skills
Strong analytical and strategic skills
Financial management
Strong leadership skills
Exceptional ability to work effectively within teams (as a leader and as team member)
Managerial and Project Management experience
High levels of personal responsibility and accountability
Sound interpersonal, communication and people management skills
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment managing multiple projects and tight deadlines
Good project planning and organizing skills
Ability to function independently and within a team
High competency in computer literacy and report writing skills
Physical fitness to perform duties and inspections
Ability to work under pressure
Competency in conflict resolution
Understanding of Environmental Legislation

Please send your resume/CV