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EZEMVELO KZN WILDLIFE
 
DISTRICT ECOLOGIST: SOUTH EAST 
Post Number: 600401
Post level: OSD Professional Scientist Grade C
Total Remuneration Package: R797 670 pa
                                             
Purpose of the Job
The District Ecologist South East will lead a team that provides scientific advice to support management of terrestrial biodiversity inside and outside of Ezemvelo protected areas in the south eastern region of KZN. The team conducts research and monitoring to address key biodiversity management issues, acts as a bridge between science and management by sourcing and interpreting scientific information for managers and policy-makers, identifies and prioritises management research needs and facilitates activities of external scientists conducting management-oriented research.
 
 
Area of Responsibility
Based in Durban, the area of responsibility for the District Ecologist South East will primarily be the Municipal Districts of Ethekwini and Ugu (including Ezemvelo Protected Areas in these districts) but undertaking work in other East-Region Districts may be required from time to time.
 
Qualification Required
  • MSc. in Ecology, Conservation Biology or Biological Sciences is mandatory.
  • Must be able to qualify to register as a Professional Natural Scientist with SACNASP.
  • Valid light motor vehicle licence is mandatory.
 
Experience:
  • Five (5) years’ experience in providing ecological and scientific advice for conservation management as well as undertaking research and/or biological monitoring (i.e. demonstrated experience in research and monitoring methodology and statistics) is mandatory.
  • Knowledge and experience of the ecosystems of KwaZulu-Natal is desired. 
  • Two (2) years of staff management and administration experience is desired.
 
 
Competencies Required
  • A good understanding of ecological processes and functioning of coastal forest, savanna and grassland ecosystems, and ability to translate this understanding into management advice for protected areas and conservation programmes.
  • Sound knowledge of scientific methods, field ecology research and monitoring methods.
  • Ability to conduct scoping reports and comment on Environmental Impact Assessments.
  • Excellent data analysis, report writing and presentation skills.
  • High level of proficiency in spreadsheet, database and GIS software.
  • High level of proficiency in attribute and spatial data management and analysis.
  • Advanced level of general computer literacy.
  • Good communication, inter-personal and management skills.
  • Strong organizational ability and planning skills.
  • Strong mentoring, training and motivational skills.
  • Knowledge of Biodiversity Conservation related legislation and PFMA.
 
 
Key Performance Areas
  • Advise Protected Area and District Conservation Managers on conservation management issues.
  • Conduct and facilitate priority research, surveys and monitoring.
  • Develop species and ecosystem monitoring plans.
  • Supervise and contribute to staff development (mentoring and facilitation of training).
  • Develop and maintain biodiversity databases and spatial information systems.
  • Produce reports and publications.
  • Promote scientific studies that enhance understanding of ecosystem functioning.
  • Contribute to development of protected areas and focal species management plans.
  • Contribute to development of organisational policies and strategic plans to promote management effectiveness.
  • Manage a budget for the section.
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Directions to applying candidates:
The following mandatory documents must be submitted;
  1. Please note that only fully completed application form EKZNWILDLIFE website will be accepted, hence incomplete form will not be considered.
  2. Certified copies of your qualifications, Identity Document (ID) and Valid Driver`s License. All submitted certified copies should not be older than three (3) months from date of submission and should not be copies of certified copies. 
 
The appointment to the post is subject to positive outcome obtained from all verifications in relation to the position advertised.
 
Applications to be posted to: 
Recruitment Section, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, P O Box 13053, Cascades 3202. 
 
Applications may also be hand delivered to: 
Recruitment Office at Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (Head Office); Queen Elizabeth Park; 1 Peter Brown Drive; Montrose, Pietermaritzburg 3201. 
 
Faxed/ Emailed applications will not be accepted. 
 
For any queries relating to this job-application please contact: Mr Craig Mulqueeny, at telephone (031) 274 1164, during office hours.
 
Closing Date: 13 NOVEMBER 2020
 
Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Applicants not contacted within 30 days of the advertisement closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
 
Selection will be made in terms of the Organization’s Employment Equity Plan and Preference will be given to members of designated groups. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife reserves the right not to make the appointment towards this post.