Wetlands Specialist

3 weeks ago


Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa Digby Wells Environmental Full time R80 000 - R120 000 per year

We are looking for a dynamic Wetland Specialist to join our team. The perfect candidate will be required to conduct wetland specialist assessments predominantly within South Africa, with opportunities across Sub-Saharan Africa.

  • Independently plan and conduct scientifically defendable national and international field surveys for data collection in support of specialist studies.
  • Apply WET-Services Series (including wetland health, functionality and sensitivity).
  • Assistance with wetland offset strategies.
  • Conduct wetland monitoring within South Africa.
  • Carry out field work under strenuous conditions.
  • Identify and delineate wetlands in accordance with the South African Practical Field Procedure for Identification and Delineation of Wetlands and Riparian Areas (DWAF, 2005).
  • Conduct and manage wetland impact assessments as part of a project.
  • Sensitivity analysis and recommendations.
  • Compile and review scientific reports for submission to clients and/or legal authorities; and
  • Conduct Risk Assessments in support of water use authorisation processes.

Qualifications

  • BSc. degree (Honours/MSc preferred) in Environmental Sciences/ Soil Science.
  • Accredited wetland courses would be advantageous such as WET-Health method described by Macfarlane et al.,
  • Hydropedology background and vegetation identification is preferred.
  • Registered as a Professional Scientist (preferred); and
  • 2–5 years of work experience in a consulting environment or a related field.

Skills and Knowledge

  • Specialist knowledge of international wetland assessments would be advantageous, including Identifying and delineating wetlands in accordance with the 'United States' Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (USEPA, 2010);
  • Knowledge of general Environmental Management principles.
  • Detailed understanding and application of research methodologies.
  • Excellent report writing skills.
  • Knowledge of Project Management (Financial Management).
  • Knowledge of vegetation classification, AIP management and rehabilitation would be advantageous.
  • Knowledge of hydropedology would be advantageous; and
  • Knowledge of Wetland Offsetting.