The Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR) is an action-oriented non-profit organisation founded in 2011. We drive programmes and catalyse initiatives that nurture resilience in nature and communities within the 3.2-million-hectare region that has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This is a wonderful opportunity to join a dynamic and diverse team of passionate individuals doing important work by bringing a collaborative approach to biodiversity conservation practices and to contribute to the long-term resilience of both the region and organisation. A development and mentoring plan will equip the candidate for success in this role.
JOB DETAILS
Job title:
Extension Officer
Employment type:
Full-time
Duration:
4-year fixed term contract, effective 1 June 2025
Remuneration:
R25,000.00 per month
Reports to:
Corridors & Restoration Programme Manager
Place of work:
Riversdale, Western Cape (minimum of 6 months in office during the onboarding and training period, thereafter hybrid working arrangements within an allocated area of the GCBR region)
Purpose of position:
To promote sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation practices within the GCBR domain by cultivating strong and collaborative relationships with landowners and key stakeholders.
Qualifications:
Relevant diploma or degree in any of the following fields is advantageous: environmental science / ecology / conservation / agriculture.
Languages:
English (fluent) and Afrikaans (fluent)
Requirements:
- Computer literacy
- Strong communication skills
- Strong administrative skills
- Valid driver’s license
- Own reliable vehicle (compensated / km)
- Willingness to relocate within GCBR region
KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders within the environmental sector such as government agencies, conservation groups and other non-profit organisations.
- Coordinate local community meetings, workshops and outreach events to garner participation and support for ecosystem restoration projects and initiatives.
- Represent the GCBR in meetings with key partners in the conservation sector and participate in regional forums to share best practices.
- Develop individual relationships with landowners within the GCBR region to understand their needs and offer practical advice to improve land management and safeguard biodiversity.
- Assist landowners in the development of farming practices that are tailored to their specific ecological contexts and aligned to sustainable conservation agriculture.
- Provide support in drafting management plans for landowners that assist the landowners in improving their natural resource management in line with the values of the GCBR.
- Educate landowners on conservation easements that aim to preserve the land’s natural features, and ensure adherence to regulations and zoning laws that govern land use and development.
- Collaborate with ecologists and environmental scientists to monitor and assess the biodiversity within the GCBR domain with the aim of developing appropriate strategies to promote resilient landscapes.
- Conduct biocontrol monitoring to evaluate the effectiveness and ecological impact of biological control agents on pest populations.
- Develop relevant content to create informational materials such as brochures, posters and presentations to effectively communicate the importance of the biodiversity initiatives undertaken by the GCBR.
- Support landowner associations by organising workshops and delivering presentations on sustainable land management and conservation practices.
- Prepare and submit reporting data such as surveys, maps, photographs and videos to the Programme Manager by the 7th of each month.
- Synthesise complex biodiversity concepts to enable effective communication to stakeholders and to support evidence-based decision making.
EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
- At least 2-3 years’ experience in natural resource management (e.g., fire, grazing, alien clearing, restoration, veld management etc.), community and stakeholder engagement, environmental education, biodiversity surveying and/or project management.
- Prior experience in wildlife management, conservation easements, regenerative agriculture and drafting management plans will be highly advantageous.
- Must possess knowledge of local ecosystems, biodiversity and conservation principles.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
- Competence in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and GIS software.
- Basic photography skills.
- A valid driver’s licence, willingness to travel regularly and ability to drive on 4×4 terrain.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Must live the GCBR values of respect, integrity, innovation, collaboration and sustainability.
Email applications to: melissa@phoenark.com
Closing date: Wednesday, 16th April 2025
Please consider your application as unsuccessful if you have not heard from us within four (4) weeks of applying. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The GCBR region
