ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER (PRODUCTION LEVEL): COASTAL MANAGEMENT

This position offers an opportunity to work as an Environmental Officer at production level within the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape Government, focusing specifically on coastal management. The role is central to the administration and implementation of the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act, commonly known as NEM: ICMA, along with other applicable legislation, regulations, policies and strategies that govern coastal and estuary management. Working within the broader environmental affairs framework, the successful candidate will support the Provincial Estuarine Management Programme, which gives effect to the National Estuarine Management Protocol, and will contribute to the protection and sustainable use of the province’s coastal and estuarine environments.

To be considered for this role, applicants must hold an appropriate recognised three-year bachelor’s degree or diploma, or an equivalent qualification, in Environmental, Natural, Earth or Engineering Sciences. A valid Code B or higher driving licence is also essential. The role requires a solid working knowledge of coastal and environmental management, ecological processes, relevant coastal, environmental and estuary legislation, and coastal and estuary management practices. Project management skills and the ability to facilitate stakeholder engagements are equally important. Candidates should also demonstrate proficiency in driving, typing, computer literacy in the MS Office package including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, language skills, information technology, report writing, honesty and integrity, and the ability to manage timeframes. Excellent communication and presentation skills are required, along with the capacity to work both independently and as part of a team.

The core duties of the position involve providing technical advice to support the administration and implementation of NEM: ICMA and other applicable legislation, policies and strategies pertaining to coastal and estuary management. The Environmental Officer will also support compliance and enforcement efforts under NEM: ICMA, helping to ensure that legal requirements are met. In addition, the role includes supporting the implementation of the Provincial Estuarine Management Programme, which is aligned with the National Estuarine Management Protocol. Project, administrative and financial management support forms a significant part of the responsibilities, meaning the incumbent must be organised, detail-oriented and capable of handling multiple tasks within set timeframes.

This is an OSD-graded position at production level, reflecting a structured career path within the public service. The advertisement notes that, in line with the Employment Equity Plan, the intention is to achieve equity in the workplace by promoting equal opportunities and fair treatment through the elimination of unfair discrimination. It is also indicated that excess personnel will receive preference. Candidates who are shortlisted will be required to undertake two pre-entry assessments: one practical exercise to determine suitability based on the technical and generic requirements of the post, and another integrity assessment focusing on ethical conduct. Applicants must be available for selection interviews on a date, time and place determined by the department. This is a demanding but rewarding role for a professional passionate about coastal and environmental management in the Western Cape.