Job Title
Environmentalist
Department
Environmental Management
Reports To
Environmental Manager
Job Purpose
The Environmentalist is responsible for the implementation, monitoring, and management of environmental conservation programmes, ecological restoration projects, and invasive alien vegetation control initiatives. The incumbent will support environmental compliance, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem rehabilitation, and sustainable land management practices while ensuring compliance with relevant environmental legislation and best practices.
Key ResponsibilitiesEnvironmental Management
- Conduct environmental site assessments and ecological inspections.
- Monitor and report on environmental conditions and conservation initiatives.
- Assist with the development and implementation of environmental management plans.
- Conduct environmental awareness and education programmes for staff and stakeholders.
- Ensure compliance with environmental legislation, permits, and organizational policies.
Invasive Alien Vegetation Management
- Plan, coordinate, and supervise invasive alien vegetation clearing operations.
- Identify and map invasive alien plant species.
- Develop and implement invasive species control and eradication programmes.
- Monitor cleared areas and implement follow-up control measures.
- Ensure the safe and effective use of herbicides in accordance with legal and environmental requirements.
- Coordinate contractors and clearing teams to achieve project objectives.
- Maintain records of clearing activities, costs, and environmental outcomes.
Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation
- Assist with ecological restoration and rehabilitation projects.
- Monitor indigenous vegetation and ecosystem health.
- Develop and implement biodiversity enhancement programmes.
- Recommend appropriate indigenous plant species for restoration projects.
- Conduct vegetation surveys and environmental monitoring.
Project and Contract Management
- Manage environmental contractors and service providers.
- Prepare project plans, budgets, and progress reports.
- Monitor contractor performance and compliance with specifications.
- Ensure health and safety requirements are adhered to during environmental operations.
Data Collection and Reporting
- Compile environmental reports and management recommendations.
- Maintain environmental databases and GIS information where applicable.
- Collect and analyse environmental data for decision-making purposes.
- Prepare reports for management, regulatory authorities, and stakeholders.
Minimum RequirementsQualifications
- National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Degree, or equivalent qualification in Environmental Management, Nature Conservation, Ecology, Environmental Science, Forestry, or a related field.
Experience
- Minimum 3–5 years' experience in environmental management and invasive alien vegetation clearing.
- Experience supervising invasive species clearing teams and contractors.
- Experience in ecological restoration and rehabilitation projects.
- Knowledge of environmental legislation and compliance requirements.
Knowledge and Skills
- Identification of invasive alien and indigenous plant species.
- Knowledge of invasive species control methods and herbicide application.
- Environmental legislation and conservation principles.
- Environmental monitoring and reporting.
- Project and contractor management.
- GIS and environmental mapping experience will be advantageous.
- Computer literacy in Microsoft Office applications.
Competencies
- Strong environmental and ecological knowledge.
- Leadership and team supervision.
- Planning and organisational skills.
- Problem-solving and decision-making.
- Report writing and communication skills.
- Attention to detail and commitment to environmental stewardship.
Key Performance Areas
- Successful implementation of invasive alien vegetation clearing programmes.
- Compliance with environmental legislation and policies.
- Improvement of ecological condition and biodiversity outcomes.
- Effective management of contractors and environmental projects.
- Accurate reporting and environmental monitoring.
Employment Type
Permanent, Full-Time
Salary
Market-related and commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Work Location: In person