ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER PRODUCTION REF NO: 301026/27 Branch: Water And Sanitation Services Management: EC Cd: Provincial Operations: Eastern Cape Div: Water Services Regulation

This position is for an Environmental Officer Production within the Department of Water and Sanitation, based at Kugompo in the Eastern Cape. The role sits within the Water Services Regulation division, under Provincial Operations, and is graded according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) structure. The core purpose of the post is to support the regulation and monitoring of water use efficiency across the municipal and water services sector, with a strong emphasis on water conservation and water demand management. The successful candidate will work within a team that oversees compliance with national water legislation and contributes to the department’s regulatory programmes, including the No Drop programme and the Integrated Regulatory Information System.

Applicants must hold a National Diploma in Natural Sciences or an equivalent qualification. While not strictly mandatory, practical experience in the water sector, particularly in Water Services Management, Regulation, or Water Use Efficiency, will be a strong advantage. A valid, unexpired driver’s licence is required, and a willingness to travel extensively is essential. The role demands advanced computer literacy, including Microsoft Office applications, and familiarity with the WMS operating system would be beneficial. Strong communication, analytical, problem-solving, planning, and organisational skills are also required, along with the ability to write technical reports, analyse data, and exercise professional judgement. Knowledge of policy development and financial management is expected, as is a sound understanding of the Public Finance Management Act, the National Water Act, the Water Services Act, and related environmental legislation.

The duties are varied and technical. The officer will monitor compliance with water use efficiency standards and compile reports with recommendations. This includes overseeing the development and implementation of Water Conservation and Water Demand Management strategies, business plans, and projects by Water Management Institutions and Water Services Authorities. The role also involves ensuring that WC/WDM systems and procedures align with sector benchmarks, monitoring the submission of International Water Association water balances, and assessing water losses and non-revenue water. The officer will prepare for and conduct assessments under the No Drop regulatory programme, coordinate corrective action plans, and monitor the loading of water use efficiency data into the IRIS system. Additional responsibilities include compiling presentations for catchment management forums and departmental management, providing regulatory findings to support training initiatives, contributing to the Directorate’s Operational Plan, and assisting with monthly, quarterly, and annual performance and risk reports.

This is an equal opportunity position, with preference given to candidates in line with Employment Equity targets. Women and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will undergo suitability checks, including qualification verification, reference checks, and criminal and credit checks. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate if shortlisted. Candidates may also be required to complete financial disclosure forms and security clearance. Correspondence is limited to shortlisted applicants, and those who do not receive feedback within three months should consider their application unsuccessful. The department reserves the right not to fill the post.