Environmental Program Officer

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development opportunities

Training and conference attendance

Coastal conservation projects

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Environmental Program Officer for Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on developing and managing biodiversity conservation projects, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable resource use in the region.

You will collaborate with communities, government agencies, and NGOs, conduct field research and data analysis, prepare proposals and reports, and help shape environmental policies to safeguard coastal and marine ecosystems.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Conservation Biology, Ecology, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in environmental program management, conservation project implementation, or research.
• Demonstrated experience in fieldwork, ecological assessment, and data analysis.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, budgeting, and reporting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in proposal writing and report preparation.
• Proven ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including community groups and government agencies.
• Familiarity with the environmental challenges and conservation opportunities in KwaZulu-Natal coastal areas.
• Proficiency in GIS and statistical software is an asset.
• A passion for environmental conservation and willingness to undertake fieldwork.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and manage environmental conservation projects in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Conduct field research, data collection, and analysis related to marine and coastal ecosystems.
• Collaborate with local communities, government bodies, and NGOs to implement conservation initiatives.
• Prepare project proposals, reports, and grant applications to secure funding.
• Monitor project progress, budgets, and outcomes; ensure timely delivery.
• Develop and deliver educational workshops and outreach materials on regional environmental issues.
• Represent the organization at meetings, conferences, and public forums.
• Advise on environmental policy and contribute to advocacy efforts for coastal and marine protection.
• Maintain effective communication and build partnerships with stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and best practices.

Skills

GIS proficiency

Statistical analysis

Fieldwork

Budgeting

Proposal writing

Stakeholder engagement

Report writing

Communication

Education

Master’s degree in Environmental Science or related field

Tools

GIS software

Statistical analysis packages

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic environmental conservation organization focused on protecting the unique marine and coastal ecosystems of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Environmental Program Officer. This role is central to developing, implementing, and managing projects aimed at biodiversity conservation, pollution reduction, and sustainable resource management in the region. The successful candidate will work closely with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote environmental stewardship and implement practical conservation solutions. You will be instrumental in driving impactful environmental initiatives, conducting research, and advocating for policies that protect our natural heritage. This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate environmentalist to make a significant contribution to the ecological health of the Richards Bay area and its surrounding coastal zones. Your expertise will be vital in safeguarding these precious natural resources for future generations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and manage environmental conservation projects in alignment with organizational goals for Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .
• Conduct field research, data collection, and analysis related to marine and coastal ecosystems, biodiversity, and environmental threats.
• Collaborate with local communities, government bodies, and NGOs to implement conservation initiatives and promote environmental awareness.
• Prepare project proposals, reports, and grant applications to secure funding for environmental programs.
• Monitor project progress, budgets, and outcomes, ensuring timely and effective delivery.
• Develop and deliver educational workshops and outreach materials on environmental issues relevant to the region.
• Represent the organization at meetings, conferences, and public forums related to environmental conservation.
• Advise on environmental policy and contribute to advocacy efforts aimed at protecting coastal and marine environments.
• Maintain effective communication and build strong partnerships with all stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and best practices.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Conservation Biology, Ecology, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in environmental program management, conservation project implementation, or research.
• Demonstrated experience in fieldwork, ecological assessment, and data analysis.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, budgeting, and reporting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in proposal writing and report preparation.
• Proven ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including community groups and government agencies.
• Familiarity with the environmental challenges and conservation opportunities in KwaZulu-Natal coastal areas.
• Proficiency in relevant software (GIS, statistical analysis packages) is an asset.
• A passion for environmental conservation and a commitment to the mission of our client.
• Willingness to undertake fieldwork, which may involve travel to remote locations and varied weather conditions.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This role provides a unique opportunity to work on impactful environmental projects in a critically important region, with a hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.
• Professional development opportunities, including specialized training and conference attendance, are available.
• You will join a dedicated team of environmental professionals passionate about conservation in the beautiful coastal setting of Richards Bay.
• The position offers the profound satisfaction of contributing directly to the protection and preservation of vital ecosystems, alongside the chance to influence environmental policy and practice in KwaZulu-Natal.