Conservation Manager on Reserve – Kogelberg (Level 10)

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 Kogelberg Landscape Unit, specifically responsible for Kogelberg Nature Reserve.

The successful candidate will report to the Landscape Manager, in the Central 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 the implementation of Natural Resource Management programmes.
• Contractor development and work opportunities are enhanced through environmental programmes implemented (Integrated Catchment Management and Expanded Public Works Program).
• Sustainable harvesting of natural products is facilitated.
• Biodiversity economy activities are implemented in identified nodes.
• Livelihood support is established for local communities.

Advocate for behavioral 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.
• Provide support to ensure that Compliance plans for all On and Off-Reserve components are in place.
• Provide support to ensure that Biodiversity permits are issued within legislated time frames.

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/Conservation Science 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 4×4 terrain.
• A good track record of managing a protected area and sound interpersonal, communication and people management skills.
• Experience in finance management.
• 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/Conservation Science, Natural Sciences and/or Sustainable Development will be advantageous.
• Project Management experience in landscape conservation, world heritage site management, disaster management and/or landscape partnerships 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
• Strong leadership and conflict resolution skills\
• Good ability to work effectively within teams (as a leader and as team member)
• Proven written and communication skills
• Project Management experience in landscape conservation, 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

AS A PERMANENT EMPLOYEE OF CAPENATURE, YOU WILL ENJOY:

• 24 days of annual leave per annual leave cycle;
• Comprehensive benefits for death, critical illness or injury linked to the Pension Fund for CapeNature employees;
• Staff discounts of up to 50% on CapeNature accommodation at reserves across the Western Cape;
• Opportunities for career progression and development through internal and external training interventions, and support for academic studies through the internal CapeNature Bursary Programme subject to Bursary Policy guidelines;
• Free access to CapeNature’s Wellness Partner for you and your immediate household which includes professional counselling, financial, legal and health related advice; and
• The opportunity to be part of a team that positively impacts the environment and promotes a sustainable future.

GENERAL:
The successful candidate will be required to stay in official accommodation at the Kogelberg Nature Reserve and pay subsidized rent.

Kindly note that it is compulsory to become a member of the CapeNature Pension Fund. If you are an existing member of a Medical Aid you are required to provide a copy of such membership before the commencement of your employment with CapeNature.
Note that a valid driver’s license is essential as this post offers an excellent opportunity to travel and view the biodiversity that we need to conserve for a sustainable future.

“*Remuneration negotiable within the range provided, depending on current remuneration package.”

Apply online: https://capenature.simply.hr/

Closing date: 3 January 2025