CapeNature seeks a dedicated conservationist to contribute meaningfully to biodiversity conservation through protected area management. The successful candidate will support terrestrial conservation efforts in line with CapeNature's integrated catchment management approach.

Key Responsibilities:
• Biodiversity Conservation: Carry out ecological projects per Protected Area Ecological Matrix, alien invasive species management, heritage tasks for historical/cultural/archaeological asset management
• Protected Area Management: Take part in planning processes, undertake quality control of annual operations projects, prepare reports, carry out infrastructure and equipment maintenance
• Biodiversity Economy: Support implementation of targeted biodiversity economic activities for job creation and livelihood support, manage access for recreational/educational/research purposes, support eco-tourism and visitor liaison
• Environmental Awareness & Compliance: Carry out environmental awareness and capacity building activities, compliance monitoring and law enforcement per integrated workplans and joint operations
• Emergency Response: Participate in OHS assessments, carry out firefighting, disaster management, incident response and rescue operations
• Administration & Supervision: Administrative tasks, undergo relevant training, supervise Conservation Assistants, contract staff, students and volunteers

Reports to: Conservation Officer on Reserve, Marloth Nature Reserve
Salary: R237,046 - R272,581 per annum

Employee Benefits:
• 24 days annual leave per cycle
• Comprehensive death, critical illness, injury benefits
• Up to 50% staff discounts on CapeNature accommodation
• Career progression and development opportunities
• Internal bursary programme for academic growth
• Free wellness partner access for counselling and advice

Essential Requirements:
• Grade 12 certificate
• At least 2 years experience with emphasis on protected areas
• Valid driver's license with minimum 3 years driving experience
• Working knowledge of enforcement operations
• Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, GIS)
• Knowledge and experience in ecological monitoring and law enforcement
• Knowledge and experience in firefighting and incident response
• Bilingualism in two of the three official languages of Western Cape
• Clean criminal record

Key Competencies:
• Willingness to work weekend shifts and irregular hours
• Physical ability to perform Field Ranger duties, including swimming ability
• Strong analytical, strategic and creative problem-solving skills
• Knowledge and experience in working with public, infrastructure maintenance, law enforcement
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced environment managing multiple projects and tight deadlines
• Good project planning and organizing skills
• Ability to function independently and within a team
• Computer literacy plus advanced MS-Office proficiency
• Ability to work in marine/aquatic environment

Advantageous:
• National Diploma in Nature Conservation and/or Marine Science
• Valid Peace Officer certificate, EMI Grade 5 certification, or enforcement experience
• Appropriate firefighting certificate
• 4x4 driving skills and experience
• ICS 100 certification
• GIS software proficiency
• Swimming ability and water safety skills