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 decision-making processes, policies and protocols in order to promote and maintain healthy natural ecosystems and a sustainable environment in the Western Cape
- Generate and disseminate science-based knowledge
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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
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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 ecosystem-services
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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
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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
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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.