Principal Hydrologist | Water Resources Management

Zutari; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

Zutari seeks an experienced Principal Hydrologist to join their water resources management team in Cape Town. The role involves leading hydrological studies, mentoring staff, and collaborating on multidisciplinary projects. Candidates should have a BSc or MSc in Hydrology with at least 5 years postgraduate experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in hydrological assessment.
• Familiarity with IWRM principles.
• Ability to mentor and manage teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead hydrological studies and develop models.
• Analyze climate data for water resource planning.
• Mentor junior hydrologists.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Time Management

Education

BSc in Hydrology

MSc in Hydrology

Professional Scientist Registration (Pr. Sci. Nat)

Job description

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About Zutari: Co-creating an engineered impact. Zutari is a well-established, management-owned engineering firm with almost 90 years of experience.

As human-centred engineering consultants and advisors, we are trusted by our clients, business partners, communities, and other stakeholders across Africa and the Middle East. We co-create engineering solutions that have a positive impact and improve people's lives.

Zutari values inclusion and recognises the importance of a diverse, talented workforce, believing that people need others to succeed. We seek high-performing talent with the right attitude, a positive mindset, and a drive to do the right thing, get things done, and share a sense of urgency. We look for people who can make an impact in our teams and the broader community, think differently, connect with others, and leave a meaningful legacy.

About the role: We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Hydrologist to join our water resources management team in Cape Town or Tshwane.

If you are motivated, can inspire others, demonstrate strong leadership, and are driven to make an impact for our clients, communities, and the environment, this role may be for you.

Role Responsibilities: Based on your experience and technical knowledge, your responsibilities will include:

1. Leading hydrological studies such as watershed modelling, floodplain mapping, and water balance assessments.
2. Developing and applying hydrologic and hydraulic models (e.g., WEAP, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, SWAT, MIKE HYDRO Basin).
3. Analyzing precipitation, streamflow, groundwater, and climate data to support water resource planning.
4. Providing expert input on flood risk, stormwater management, and drought mitigation strategies.
5. Collaborating with engineers, ecologists, planners, and government agencies on multidisciplinary projects.
6. Mentoring junior hydrologists and reviewing technical work for accuracy and quality.
7. Supporting stakeholder engagement and public consultation processes.
8. Staying current with emerging trends in hydrology, climate science, and water policy.

Minimum Requirements:

• BSc, preferably MSc degree in Hydrology.
• Registration as a Professional Scientist (Pr. Sci. Nat) or equivalent.
• At least 5 years postgraduate experience in hydrological assessment.
• Familiarity with integrated water resource management (IWRM) principles.
• Effective planning and time management skills.
• Ability to lead, mentor, and manage people, with strong interpersonal and networking skills.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).

We believe that a diverse workforce is key to our success. We seek the best people based on skills, qualifications, and experience, and embrace equal opportunity employment, supporting diversity and eliminating discrimination. Preference will be given to individuals from designated groups within South Africa.

Additional Information: Seniority level: Mid-Senior level. Employment type: Full-time. Job function: Other. Industry: Design Services.