Biodiversity Officer Production Grade A:Biodiversity Compliance and Monitoring at Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental

REQUIREMENTS :

• An appropriate Bachelor’s degree/ National Diploma as recognised by SAQA in Conservation/ Wildlife/ Environmental Management/ Environmental Sciences/ Law.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation, such as the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (NEMBA) and other relevant government policies regulating biodiversity conservation, including the sustainable use of natural resources and protected species.
• Computer literacy. A valid driver’s license. The following will be an add advantage: Experience in investigations. 

 
DUTIES :

• Render proactive Compliance Monitoring which would include the following; verify adherence to environmental requirements, review of conditions contained in the permit, conduct site inspections, prepare report/submission of finding and determine further actions required. Conduct proactive Sector Compliance Inspections.
• Provide inputs on compliance checklists, policies/guidelines/frameworks and operational manuals. Render reactive Compliance Monitoring which would include the following: attend to reactive inspections (when illegal activity/breach of conditions have been identified), respond to complaints and investigate incidents, consult with relevant environmental experts and legal representatives of transgressors, gather information, analyse and make recommendations.
• Conduct Compliance Enforcement operations which would include the following: (prosecutions) administrative enforcement; assist with the drafting of pre-directives, compliance notices and guilt fines, civil and / criminal enforcement; apply for court interdict (in consultation with legal services / State Attorney), compile a docket and refer the matter to the Department of Public Prosecutions, drafting of affidavit, provide evidence in court when required, advocate cooperative governance in dealing with enforcement issues (SAPS, NPA, DWAF, Municipalities etc), provide inputs on comments on appeal/submissions received in terms of compliance notices.
• Participate in Compliance Promotion / Awareness which would include the following: Promoting environmental rights and justice (participation in sector specific forums), liaison with stakeholders, NGO’s and civil society, review of information and data, provide information/support to the Advisory component in conducting compliance awareness workshops, facilitate in-house training.
• Perform all administrative and related functions which would include the following: contribute to the compilation of reports as required, control assets allocated to projects, provide inputs into manuals and guidelines and comply with the Public Service prescripts. Manage resource of the Directorate, i.e. asset and financial resource.