BIODIVERSITY OFFICER SPECIALISED PRODUCTION: ENFORCEMENT

This position offers an opportunity for an experienced nature conservation professional to take on a specialised enforcement role within the biodiversity directorate of a provincial government department. Based at the Johannesburg Head Office, the Biodiversity Officer Specialised Production: Enforcement is primarily responsible for investigating biodiversity-related complaints and ensuring that environmental legislation is upheld. The role sits within a broader unit that manages conservation compliance, and it requires close collaboration with other government bodies, law enforcement agencies, and the National Prosecuting Authority. The work is both operational and administrative, blending fieldwork, evidence gathering, and court preparation with report writing and stakeholder engagement.

To be considered, candidates must hold a Grade 12 certificate as well as an Honours Degree at NQF Level 8 in Nature Conservation, recognised by SAQA. A minimum of six years of relevant experience in nature conservation is required, with specific experience in both covert and overt investigations and detective work. Applicants must also possess a valid driver’s licence. The role demands strong computer literacy, excellent communication and writing abilities, and proven networking skills with stakeholders inside and outside government. The successful candidate will need the ability to interpret and implement policy, legislation, and guidelines, as well as a strong personality and conflict management skills. Completion of Environmental Management Inspector training is considered an added advantage and would strengthen an application.

The core duties are wide-ranging. The officer will investigate complaints received, conduct thorough investigations, and maintain detailed records with strict confidentiality. A deep working knowledge of the Nature Conservation Ordinance, the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004, TOPS regulations, CITES, and the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 is essential. The role involves coordinating search and seizure warrants, attending court proceedings to support the NPA in proving transgressors guilty beyond reasonable doubt, and ensuring that sentences reflect the seriousness of the crimes. The officer must collect, analyse, and preserve evidence for court, work with other law enforcement agencies to solve biodiversity crimes, and conduct site inspections to ascertain compliance, submitting reports to Biodiversity Control. Additionally, the officer will assist other Biodiversity Officers and the SAPS with identifying endangered and rare wild fauna and flora species, support the unit’s project implementation, and ensure all reports meet departmental standards.

This is a management-level post within the department’s echelon, and as such, shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo technical exercises and pre-entry assessments, including practical and integrity evaluations. Successful candidates will be subjected to security clearance, criminal record checks, and verification of qualifications. Applications must be submitted with a completed Z83 form and an updated CV, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If no feedback is received within three months after the closing date, applicants should consider their applications unsuccessful. This role is ideal for a seasoned conservationist with a strong investigative background and a commitment to upholding biodiversity laws.