Biodiversity Monitor

Biodiversity Monitor Supervisor, South Africa

Department: Operations and Maintenance

Period: Full Time Local Employment Agreement

Company: Biotherm Operations and Maintenance (an ENGIE SA company)

Location: ENGIE Southern Africa, Golden Valley Windfarm Facility, Eastern Cape South Africa.

CLOSING DATE: 23 May 2025

2. BACKGROUND

ENGIE Southern Africa is seeking Biodiversity Monitors for the Golden Valley Wind Farm near Bedford in the Eastern Cape Province. The primary responsibility of this position is to conduct operational bird and bat monitoring at the wind facility. The program includes bird and bat monitoring, fatality searches, searcher efficiency trials, and carcass persistence trials, adhering to standardized protocols as trained, being part of a small field crew, and keeping detailed datasheets. If required, this position may necessitate the implementation of the Shut Down on Demand (SDOD) protocol. Preference will be given to candidates residing in Somerset East, Adelaide, Cookhouse, and Bedford in the Eastern Cape.

3. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with environmental monitoring scope of work at Golden Valley Wind Farm.
• Conduct bird and bat monitoring.
• Conduct surveys on foot (up to 15 km per day) in potentially adverse weather conditions and record data.
• Conduct visual surveys of bird flight activity and advise/alert a control room when specific bird species approach too close to wind turbines in accordance with a specific protocol.
• Search for dead or injured birds and bats on foot in vegetation under wind turbines.
• Conduct bird observations for extended periods of time (up to 40 hours per week) to record behaviour and flight patterns.
• Operate a camera and Global Positioning System (GPS) and record details of carcasses found and observations made.
• Follow instructions from the Supervisor and collect precise and thorough data.
• Be prepared to work in shifts that may include weekends when required.

5. EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• Diploma in natural conservation is an advantage.
• Matric Certificate/Grade 12.
• Computer literate (especially MS Word and Excel), ability to work with electronic data collection protocols and data submission timing requirements.
• A valid driver’s license with at least 2 years of driving experience.
• Candidates with previous field experience in bird and/or bat monitoring will be preferred.
• Ability to identify local bird and/or bat species.
• First-Aid Certificate.
• Experience in the use of a camera, binoculars, topographic maps, GPS units, and other field equipment.

Additional information:

• All applications must be accompanied by the following supporting documents, or candidates will be automatically disqualified:
• Certified copy of ID.
• Certified copy of a driver’s licence.
• Certified copies of all qualifications (if applicable).
• Proof of residence.

Language

• Fluent in English (verbal and written skills).
• Other languages would be beneficial.
• Excellent writing, spelling, editing, and proofreading skills.
• Must be able to work independently and with others, and interact positively with project management and landowners.
• Must be able to follow instructions from Supervisor and collect data precisely and thoroughly.
• Candidates must be able to walk for extended periods and handle exposure to weather extremes.
• Must be a good communicator, have the ability to maintain a positive attitude, and accept guidance and constructive criticism.
• Have a passion for the environment.
• Energetic, fit, and self-motivated.

6. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Adhere to the Company Policies and Procedures and Ethics.
• Behave in a responsible way.
• Live the values of the Company.

ENGIE Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd is committed to equality, employment equity, and diversity. In accordance with the employment equity plan of ENGIE Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd and its employment equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited, to candidates from under-represented designated groups.