Marine Biologist & Dive Safety Officer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 1,150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Research equipment access

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Marine Biologist & Dive Safety Officer to lead field research and scientific diving operations near Mossel Bay. You will oversee dive safety, train divers, and ensure rigorous data collection and record-keeping for ongoing conservation projects.

The role requires a Ph.D. or MSc in Marine Biology or related field, Advanced Diver certification, and 5+ years of scientific diving experience, with strong knowledge of conservation law and research methods.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Marine Biology, Oceanography, or a closely related field.
• Advanced Diver certification and at least 5 years of experience in scientific diving.
• Proven experience as a Dive Safety Officer or in a similar dive management role.
• Strong background in research methodologies, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Excellent understanding of marine conservation principles and relevant legislation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field research, data collection, and analysis related to marine ecosystems and species.
• Develop and implement dive safety protocols, procedures, and training programs for scientific diving.
• Serve as the primary Dive Safety Officer (DSO), overseeing all aspects of dive operations to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Train and supervise scientific divers, conducting buddy checks and ensuring proper equipment use.
• Maintain detailed records of research findings, dive logs, and safety incidents.
• Collaborate with other scientists and stakeholders on research projects and conservation initiatives.

Skills

Scientific diving

Dive safety management

Data analysis

Education

MSc/PhD in Marine Biology or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly qualified Marine Biologist & Dive Safety Officer to join their research and conservation team based near Mossel Bay. This multifaceted role involves conducting vital marine research, leading scientific dive operations, and ensuring the highest standards of dive safety for all personnel. The ideal candidate will possess advanced scientific knowledge of marine ecosystems, extensive diving experience, and a proven track record in dive safety management. You will play a critical role in furthering our understanding of local marine biodiversity and contributing to conservation efforts in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field research, data collection, and analysis related to marine ecosystems and species.
• Develop and implement dive safety protocols, procedures, and training programs for scientific diving.
• Serve as the primary Dive Safety Officer (DSO), overseeing all aspects of dive operations to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Train and supervise scientific divers, conducting buddy checks and ensuring proper equipment use.
• Maintain detailed records of research findings, dive logs, and safety incidents.
• Collaborate with other scientists and stakeholders on research projects and conservation initiatives.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Marine Biology, Oceanography, or a closely related scientific field.
• Advanced Diver certification and at least 5 years of experience in scientific diving.
• Proven experience as a Dive Safety Officer or in a similar dive management role.
• Strong background in research methodologies, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Excellent understanding of marine conservation principles and relevant legislation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and research grant opportunities.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Access to state-of-the-art research equipment and facilities.
• Opportunities for professional development and conference attendance.
• A chance to make a significant contribution to marine science and conservation in the Western Cape.