The Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR) is a 3.2-million-hectare area that has been designated by UNESCO as a place of megadiversity. As an action orientated non-profit company, the GCBR is driven to protect, restore and effectively manage the ecosystems within its domain. This is a wonderful opportunity to join a small team of passionate individuals doing important work by bringing a collaborative approach to biodiversity conservation practices to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the organisation. The successful candidates will be required to work in the following geographical areas: Coastal region (Grootbrak to Witsand) and/or terrestrial region (Riversdale to Swellendam) and/or Karoo region (Montagu to Barrydale).
JOB DETAILS
Job title: Extension Officer x 2
Employment type: Part-time and/or full-time, with a minimum of 10 days per month
Duration: Fixed term contract, effective 1 March 2024 – 31 December 2025
Remuneration: R1 300 – R1 500 per day with a minimum of 10 days per month
Reports to: Corridors & Restoration Programme Manager
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)
KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders 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.
- Develop individual relationships with landowners within the GCBR domain to offer practical advice and to understand their specific needs and challenges.
- Assist landowners in the development of farming practices that are tailored to their specific ecological contexts and aligned to sustainable conservation agriculture.
- 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 sustainable conservation management.
- 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.
- Prepare and submit reporting data such as surveys, maps, photographs and videos to the Programme Manager by the 7th of each month.
- Support in the development of a comprehensive body of evidence that demonstrates trends in the condition of biodiversity within the region.
EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
- At least 2-3 years’ experience in community and stakeholder engagement, environmental education 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.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Must live the GCBR values of integrity, innovation, collaboration and sustainability.
Email applications to: melissa@campoconsulting.co.za
Closing date: Wednesday, 14th February 2024