Environmental Project Officer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative team environment

Contribute to conservation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Environmental Project Officer in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role supports planning, execution and monitoring of conservation projects to protect biodiversity and natural resources in Zululand, with a hybrid work arrangement.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science or related field, 3–5 years of experience in project management, and strong skills in planning, data interpretation, GIS, and stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Ecology, Geography, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in environmental project management or conservation fieldwork.
• Demonstrated experience in project planning, implementation, and monitoring.
• Strong knowledge of ecological principles, biodiversity conservation, and environmental management.
• Excellent research, analytical, and data interpretation skills.
• Proficiency in GIS software and other relevant environmental monitoring tools is a plus.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working with local communities and understanding of socio-environmental issues in South Africa.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to conduct fieldwork in various conditions.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and manage environmental conservation projects from inception to completion in the Richards Bay region.
• Conduct field research, site assessments, and data collection related to biodiversity, habitat health, and environmental impact.
• Develop and implement project plans, budgets, and timelines, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Engage with local communities, landowners, and stakeholders to promote conservation initiatives and ensure project buy-in.
• Prepare project reports, technical documents, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental regulations and conservation best practices.
• Collaborate with scientific teams, government agencies, and other NGOs on conservation efforts.
• Organize and facilitate community workshops and educational events on environmental issues.
• Assist in the development of grant proposals and fundraising efforts for conservation projects.

Skills

Project management

Data interpretation

Stakeholder engagement

GIS software

Research skills

Communication

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science / related field

Tools

ArcGIS

GPS field tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent environmental conservation charity operating in the Richards Bay area, is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Environmental Project Officer. This role is essential for the planning, execution, and monitoring of various conservation projects focused on protecting the unique biodiversity and natural resources of the Zululand region. The successful candidate will work closely with local communities, government bodies, and other stakeholders to implement sustainable environmental practices and promote conservation awareness. This is a fantastic opportunity for an environmentally conscious professional to contribute meaningfully to ecological preservation efforts in a beautiful coastal setting. The position is based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , and involves a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for both field-based work and office-based responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and manage environmental conservation projects from inception to completion in the Richards Bay region.
• Conduct field research, site assessments, and data collection related to biodiversity, habitat health, and environmental impact.
• Develop and implement project plans, budgets, and timelines, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Engage with local communities, landowners, and stakeholders to promote conservation initiatives and ensure project buy-in.
• Prepare project reports, technical documents, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental regulations and conservation best practices.
• Collaborate with scientific teams, government agencies, and other NGOs on conservation efforts.
• Organize and facilitate community workshops and educational events on environmental issues.
• Assist in the development of grant proposals and fundraising efforts for conservation projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Ecology, Geography, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in environmental project management or conservation fieldwork.
• Demonstrated experience in project planning, implementation, and monitoring.
• Strong knowledge of ecological principles, biodiversity conservation, and environmental management.
• Excellent research, analytical, and data interpretation skills.
• Proficiency in GIS software and other relevant environmental monitoring tools is a plus.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working with local communities and understanding of socio-environmental issues in South Africa.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to conduct fieldwork in various conditions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Passion for environmental conservation and a commitment to sustainable development.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with qualifications and experience, and the chance to work on impactful conservation projects in the ecologically rich area of Richards Bay.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility.
• Employees will benefit from professional development opportunities, a collaborative and passionate team environment, and the intrinsic reward of contributing to the preservation of natural heritage.
• Join our client and play a key role in safeguarding the environment.