Marine Field Ranger (Level 4), De Hoop Nature Reserve

November 21, 2024

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Bursary Description

The position is suited to a dedicated conservationist who will contribute meaningfully to the conservation of biodiversity through protected area management, compliance and enforcement, eco-tourism, access and stakeholder awareness with a special focus on the marine environment. The successful candidate will also assist with terrestrial functions.

The position will report to the Conservation Officer on Reserve.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Enhance biodiversity resilience through targeted ecosystem conservation and restoration initiatives
  • The Protected Area is managed according to a management plan and prioritized action plans.
  • Priority landscapes and seascapes are protected, restored and conserved.
  • Implementation of the ecological matrix and implemented catchment strategy.
  • Priority ecological infrastructure areas are restored and protected. This includes:
    – Estuarine management.
    –  Marine Protected Area management.
    – Invasive alien plant control and
    – Fire management.

Assist with protected area conservation in ways that address biodiversity loss

  • The legal mandate is implemented through compliance and enforcement actions.
  • Implementation of the Landscape Compliance plan through joint operations.
  • Actions to improve the conservation status of priority species and ecosystems are implemented.
  • Functional partnerships addressing biodiversity loss are developed and maintained.
  • Supervisory and Administrative duties. This includes:
     – Supervision of EPWP teams.
     – Daily, weekly, and monthly administration, including reporting.
     – Assist with control and management of assets.
     – Assist with the maintenance of infrastructure and equipment.

Promote the biodiversity economy and enhance biodiversity access

 • Assist with contractor development and work opportunities through environmental programs
   (Integrated Catchment Management).
 • Assist with natural resource projects such as the DFFE Fish Tag and Release project.

 Advocate for behavioral change and promote voluntary compliance.

 • Participate in local community involvement through Protected Area Advisory Forums and Estuary forums.
 • Protected area ecological and human well-being is promoted through a landscape environmental 
    interpretation and awareness plan.
 • Assist with stakeholder engagement
 • Maintain and develop partnerships.
 • Implementation of the Landscape Compliance Plan through joint operations with other partners and law
   enforcement patrols.

Assume overall accountability pertaining to performance, governance and risk management

 • Compliance with relevant Occupational Health and Safety legislation, policies and standards in the
    workplace.
 • Compliance with corporate policies, strategies and standards.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Qualifications and Experience
 • Grade 12
 • At least 3 years’ experience with an emphasis on estuary, coastal and the marine environment.
 • A valid driver’s license with at least three years driving experience.
 • A working knowledge of enforcement operations, the Integrated Coastal Management Act and the Marine
    Living Resources Act.
 • A 15- Nautical mile skippers license with at least 3 years of proven experience.
 • Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, QGIS).
 • Knowledge and experience in ecological monitoring and law enforcement.
 • Knowledge and experience in Fire Fighting with Crew Boss level or higher qualification.
 • Bilingualism in two of the three official languages of the Western Cape.
 • No criminal record.

Competencies
 • Willingness to work irregular hours, after hours, and perform standby duties.
 • Good written, verbal, interpersonal and communication skills.
 • Physical fitness to be able to perform strenuous activities.
 • Analytical and a technical mindset.
 • Administrative skills.
 • Ability to work under pressure and to manage multiple projects and tight deadlines.
 • Good project planning and organizing skills.
 • Ability to function independently and within a team.

Recommendation:
 • A relevant tertiary diploma in Conservation management.
 • Peace officer qualification.
 • Appointed Fisheries Control Officer.
 • Appointed as an Environmental Management Inspector.
 • The successful candidate must be able to swim.

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 academic growth 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 positively impact the environment and promote a sustainable future.

Closing date: 5 December 2024