BIODIVERSITY OFFICER PRODUCTION GRADE A: ISSUING AUTHORITY

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is seeking a Biodiversity Officer Production Grade A to serve as an Issuing Authority within its Cape Town centre. This entry-level production grade position sits within the department’s regulatory framework for managing alien and invasive species, a critical area of South Africa’s biodiversity conservation efforts. The successful candidate will be responsible for the administrative and scientific processes that underpin the permitting system for species that pose ecological and economic risks. Working within a team of environmental specialists, the officer will ensure that permit applications are processed in line with national and international prescripts, while also contributing to broader natural resources management objectives. The role demands a proactive, innovative individual who can balance regulatory compliance with stakeholder engagement, and who is comfortable working both independently and as part of multilateral collaborations.

To be considered, applicants must hold a National Diploma at NQF level 6 in Natural or Environmental Science, or a relevant qualification in a related field, together with at least one year of practical experience in a relevant environment. A solid understanding of the national and international regulations governing invasive alien species is essential, as is knowledge of natural resources management policies, project management, and financial and procurement procedures. The ideal candidate will possess strong research skills, the ability to plan and organise work effectively, and excellent written and verbal communication skills. They must also demonstrate sound interpersonal relations, an innovative and proactive approach, and the capacity to gather and analyse complex information. Willingness to work long hours voluntarily is a specific requirement, reflecting the occasional demands of the role.

The core duties of the position centre on the administration of authorisations for alien and invasive species. This includes processing permit applications, conducting risk assessments for listed invasive species and alien species with invasive potential, and liaising with stakeholders to provide advice on permitting requirements. The officer will coordinate and participate in multilateral interactions aimed at implementing the Alien and Invasive Species Regulations and associated norms and standards. Maintaining an accurate register of all permits and a comprehensive permit database is a key responsibility, along with producing a bi-annual report drawn from that database. The role also involves desktop research to ensure that correct scientific names are allocated to permit applications, as well as providing species verification in line with the regulations. These duties require meticulous attention to detail and a strong commitment to upholding environmental law.

The DFFE is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from underrepresented designated groups in line with the department’s equity plan, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of their qualifications, identity document, and driver’s licence before the interview, and foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). All shortlisted applicants will undergo screening and security vetting, which may include criminal record checks, citizenship status, creditworthiness, reference checks, and qualification verification. By applying, candidates consent to the processing of their personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). Correspondence is limited to successful candidates, and those not contacted within three months of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. The department reserves the right not to make an appointment.