This position is suited to a dedicated conservationist who would like to contribute to the conservation of biodiversity through the implementation of long-term monitoring projects, facilitation and assistance to research, compliance monitoring and law enforcement as well as supervision of internal and external visitors at Dassen Island Nature Reserve.

The successful candidate will report to the Conservation Officer | Dassen Coastal Complex

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Enhance biodiversity resilience through targeted ecosystem conservation and restoration initiatives

• The Protected Area is managed according to a management plan and prioritized action plans.
• Assist with compilation and implementation of the Annual Plan of Operations.
• Implement special, externally funded DFFE: O&C projects according to the MOU and Work Plan.
• Implement the Dassen Island Ecological Matrix.
• Implement special projects related to Cape fur seals, house mice and European rabbits.
• Priority ecological infrastructure areas are restored and protected.

This includes:

• Marine Protected Area management.
• Invasive Alien Species (Flora and Fauna) control
• Disaster management: Marine strandings, oil spills, disease outbreaks

Assist with protected area conservation in ways that address biodiversity loss

• The legal mandate is implemented through compliance and enforcement actions.
• Implementation of the West Landscape Compliance plan through assistance during joint operations.
• Actions to improve the conservation status of priority species and ecosystems are implemented. Implementation of the African Penguin BMP-s.
• Functional partnerships addressing biodiversity loss are developed and maintained.
• Supervisory and Administrative duties.
  

       This includes:

• Supervision of EPWP teams.
• Daily, weekly, and monthly administration, including reporting.
• Control and management of all Dassen Island assets. Conduct monthly stores verification and assist with fixed asset verifications.
• Assist with the maintenance of infrastructure and equipment.
• Updating of the infrastructure register.
• Conduct minor repairs and maintenance and ensure that the workspaces and accommodation units are kept clean and presentable at all times.

To assist in risk management, governance, compliance monitoring, and effective enforcement operations in the Landscape.

• Be aware of and participate in interventions that predict, minimize, and mitigate risks due to unnatural and natural disasters.
• Ensure that enforcement operations are effective in achieving the objectives of the island and Complex management plan and associated legislation, policies and agreements.
• Participate in seabird, island and MPA based partnerships, especially with regards to law enforcement and compliance monitoring.
• Advocate for behavioural change and promote voluntary compliance.
• Identify and motivate for innovation and improved technologies.

Contribute to marine and coastal conservation in promoting the biodiversity economy and enhancing biodiversity access and sustainable use.

• Participate in local partnerships with a focus on conservation as well as any associated non-extractive socio-economic benefits and community empowerment opportunities.
• Identify and participate in projects that are based on sustainable non-extractive economic opportunities, aligned to CapeNature’s directive to enhance access and socio-economic opportunities.
• Support the implementation of targeted biodiversity economic activities to promote job creation, work opportunities, and livelihood support.
• Participate in initiatives that promote access to the island for recreational, educational, training and traditional purposes (access to communities, NSRI, Yacht clubs, etc.).
• Contribute to stakeholder engagement and learning.

Assume overall accountability pertaining to performance, governance and risk management

• Compliance with relevant Occupational Health and Safety legislation, policies and standards in the workplace.
• Compliance with all corporate policies, strategies and standards
• Provide supervision to all visiting researchers, film crews, volunteers, contractors and visiting staff.
• Perform Environmental Control Officer (ECO) duties during all filming and maintenance or construction work.
• Respond to all queries regarding Dassen Island and educate general public (Illegal landings – sensitivity awareness).

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Grade 12
• At least 2 years of job-related experience with an emphasis on estuary, coastal or marine enforcement and anti-poaching fields
• Working knowledge of enforcement operations, operational plans and vessel-based operations.
• A valid EB driver’s license with proven ability to tow heavy loads.
• No criminal record.
• Bilingualism in two of the three official languages of the Western Cape

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Possession of a valid Peace Officer’s certificate, EMI certification or a type of enforcement experience
• Skippers License (Category C or higher).
• Evidence supporting skipper experience.

COMPETENCIES:

• Willingness to work irregular hours, after-hours, and perform stand-by duties.
• Thorough working knowledge of MS Office and QGIS (or equivalent).
• Good written, verbal, interpersonal, and communication skills in English.
• Physical fitness to be able to perform strenuous activities.
• Ability to work in isolation and as part of integrated teams.
• Analytical/technical mindset.
• Administration skills.
• Inter-personal skills
• Problem-solving skills

AS A PERMANENT EMPLOYEE OF CAPENATURE, YOU WILL ENJOY:

• 24 days of annual leave per annual leave cycle.
• Comprehensive benefits for death, critical illness or injury linked to the Pension Fund for CapeNature employees.
• Staff discounts of up to 50% on CapeNature accommodation at reserves across the Western Cape.
• Opportunities for career progression and development through internal and external training interventions, and academic growth through the internal CapeNature Bursary Programme subject to Bursary Policy guidelines.
• Free access to CapeNature’s Wellness Partner for you and your immediate household which includes professional counselling, financial, legal and health related advice; and
• The opportunity to positively impact the environment and promote a sustainable future.

Kindly Note:
“*Remuneration negotiable within the range provided, depending on current remuneration package

GENERAL
The successful candidate will be required to stay in official accommodation at Dassen Island Nature Reserve and pay subsidized rent.

Kindly Note: Only suitable candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be considered.

Apply online: https://capenature.simply.hr

Closing date: 13 February 2025