Resource Ecologist

CapeNature is looking for professional, competent, dynamic, innovative and energetic botanical scientist / botanist, specializing in resource ecology (flora), to join our Biodiversity Conservation unit.

This unit forms part of the Biodiversity Capabilities Directorate and will report to the

Capability Manager:
Biodiversity Conservation in the Biodiversity Capabilities Directorate of CapeNature.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

-
Knowledge generation and dissemination

• Generate and disseminate knowledge toward optimal decisionmaking processes, policies and protocols in order to promote and maintain healthy natural ecosystems and a sustainable environment in the Western Cape
• Generate and disseminate sciencebased knowledge

- **Biodiversity policy, planning and management*

• Plan and manage biodiversity policy, which is supported via scientific advisory, regulatory and liaison functions
• Contribute to biodiversity legislation, policy, planning and management
• Facilitate, assess and evaluate biodiversity research and monitoring projects to ensure conservation and sustainability of priority floral resources and contribute towards a knowledge economy and inventories
• Provide expert opinion on the identification of certain plant species: able to identify Succulent Karoo flora species (especially succulents and bulbs) to species level
• The drafting and provision of statements in terms of the Criminal Procedure Act and additional witness statements after plant species are identified
• Testify in court regarding flora species identification and sentencing

- **Generating Impact*

• Generate impact by conducting scientific biodiversity research and monitoring projects and programmes and to contribute to biodiversity inventories
• Generate impact through reporting on surveillance, monitoring and research
• Conduct surveillance, monitoring and research
• Conduct, facilitate and evaluate scientific research and monitoring; perform scientific advisory, regulatory and liaison function; promote awareness about healthy ecosystems, habitats and landscapes, and ecosystemservices

- **Collaboration, partnerships and funding*

• Develop collaborative partnerships to leverage optimal output including the development of funded projects to support the strategic objectives of CapeNature
• Develop and maintain collaborations and partnerships to augment capacity and capability

- **Capability development and innovation*

• Enhance capabilities via the development and deployment of innovative measures and general ecological competencies
• Deploy innovation to develop human and knowledge capital towards achieving the strategic objectives of CapeNature

- **Embody CapeNature's core values and core management standards, being**:

• Exemplify CapeNature's core iCARE values: innovation, customer service, accountability, respect, and ethics
• Provide strategic capability and leadership and sound fiscal management.
• Ensure team cohesion through management and empowerment, and through implementing Personal Development Plans.
• Support other directorates in implementing and reporting on biodiversity conservation plans and actions.
• Communicate to internal and external stakeholders in a respectful and receptive manner.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Qualifications and Experience

• A Natural Science degree in the field of Conservation Science, Ecological Science, Biological Science or Zoological Science (NQF 7) (BSc in Botany, Ecology or Conservation Biology)
• At least 3 years' experience working in the field of botany
• Demonstrated understanding and knowledge of applicable conservation legislation and international environmental Conventions and Agreements and the ability to interpret and implement these
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the biodiversity of the Western Cape, and the primary threats to biodiversity in the Western Cape
• Good understanding of botanical conservation and ecological issues in the Western Cape Province.
• Excellent communication in English both written and spoken
• In possession of a valid driver's license

Competencies

• Advanced analytical, strategic, and creative critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, writing, reporting and presentation skills.
• Advanced project planning and organizing skills, coupled with an advanced capability to work under pressure and deliver on tight deadlines.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, and GIS and database software packages
• Exceptional ability to work effectively within teams (either as a leader or as team member).
• Advanced facilitation and coordination skills.
• Ability to priorities and adapt, managing multiple projects, tasks, and deadlines.

---