Environmental Project Officer

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Health insurance

Annual leave

Retirement savings plan

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance may be offered

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Environmental Project Officer in Cape Town to lead conservation projects, engage communities, and collaborate with government and partners. This role emphasizes field assessments, data analysis, and reporting to advance biodiversity and Western Cape ecosystems.

The ideal candidate will have a strong scientific background, proven project management skills, and a passion for conservation. A driver’s license and willingness to conduct fieldwork are required.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Environmental Science, Ecology, Conservation Biology, or related field.
• 5+ years of progressive environmental project management experience.
• In-depth knowledge of conservation principles, especially Western Cape ecosystems.
• Experience in fieldwork, data analysis, and scientific report writing.
• Strong understanding of environmental policy and legislation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and lead project teams.
• Proficiency in GIS and environmental modeling tools.
• Experience with diverse stakeholders including community members and government officials.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, implementation, and reporting of conservation projects in and around Cape Town.
• Conduct field assessments, data collection, and ecological surveys to inform design and monitoring.
• Develop project proposals, budgets, and timelines aligned with organizational goals.
• Manage project execution, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and quality standards.
• Foster relationships with community groups, governmental bodies, and corporate partners.
• Coordinate and supervise field staff and contractors involved in project activities.
• Monitor progress and impact, applying adaptive management strategies as needed.
• Prepare comprehensive project reports, scientific publications, and presentations.
• Ensure compliance with South African environmental legislation and regulations.
• Contribute to developing new project ideas and funding opportunities.

Skills

Project management

Fieldwork

Data analysis

Report writing

Stakeholder engagement

Budget management

Leadership

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Environmental Science / Ecology / Conservation Biology

Tools

GIS software

Environmental modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading environmental conservation non-profit based in the scenic region of Cape Town , is seeking an experienced and dedicated Environmental Project Officer. This critical role involves planning, executing, and monitoring diverse environmental projects aimed at preserving the unique biodiversity and natural landscapes of the Western Cape. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background, a passion for conservation, and proven project management capabilities. You will be at the forefront of implementing innovative solutions to pressing environmental challenges, working closely with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability in one of South Africa's most beautiful provinces. You will join a dynamic team of professionals committed to making a tangible impact on the environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, implementation, and reporting of various environmental conservation projects in and around Cape Town .
• Conduct field assessments, data collection, and ecological surveys to inform project design and monitoring.
• Develop project proposals, budgets, and timelines in line with organizational goals.
• Manage project execution, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and quality standards.
• Foster collaborative relationships with community groups, governmental bodies, and corporate partners.
• Coordinate and supervise field staff and contractors involved in project activities.
• Monitor project progress and impact, implementing adaptive management strategies as needed.
• Prepare comprehensive project reports, scientific publications, and presentations for diverse audiences.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental legislation and regulations in South Africa .
• Contribute to the development of new project ideas and funding opportunities.

Requirements

• A Master's or PhD degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Conservation Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in environmental project management.
• In-depth knowledge of conservation principles and practices, particularly relevant to the Western Cape ecosystem.
• Demonstrated experience in fieldwork, data analysis, and scientific report writing.
• Strong understanding of environmental policy and legislation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and lead project teams effectively.
• Proficiency in GIS software and other relevant environmental modeling tools.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including community members and government officials.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to undertake fieldwork in challenging terrains around Cape Town .

Benefits

• Our client is pleased to offer a highly competitive remuneration package, reflecting the importance of this role and the candidate's expertise.
• Beyond the salary, employees enjoy comprehensive health insurance, a generous annual leave allowance, and a retirement savings plan.
• Professional development opportunities, including workshops and conferences, are actively encouraged and supported.
• This position in Cape Town provides a unique platform to contribute to significant environmental initiatives and advance your career in conservation.
• A supportive and collaborative work culture awaits you, alongside the satisfaction of contributing to a vital cause.
• Opportunities for research collaboration and publication are also available.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.