Environment Specialist - Biosecurity at Border Management Authority

Description

The successful candidate will be responsible for, amongst others, the following specific tasks:

• Prepare and improve standards related to goods presenting as biosecurity threats at the Ports of Entry.
• Conduct horizon scans for emerging biosecurity threats to South Africa. Provide inputs into biosecurity capacity building programmes.
•  Assist with biosecurity project support.
• Provide technical support and advice to the Environment division within the BMA.
•  Ensure data management, monitoring and evaluation, and research for the effective provision of Environment biosecurity management in the BMA.
• Data analysis of port biosecurity interventions.
• Build and maintain effective internal and external stakeholder relationships for the purpose of expectations management, knowledge sharing and integration. Attend industry related forums, conferences, and workshops to gain industry insight for the purpose of business improvement.
• Support the implementation of timeous communication on relevant information and legislation to the Ports of Entry.
• Represent and participate in the BMA’s committees and tasks teams.
• Support advocacy activities on environmental-related matters by engaging and collaborating with relevant stakeholders.
• Assist in facilitating stakeholder liaison engagements.
• Provide technical inputs into the Operational risk register (AOP).
• Support the development and review of biosecurity risk profiles.
• Monitor changes in the regulatory environment and ensure that appropriate operational controls are implemented to address new requirements

Knowledge

• Knowledge of the South African Constitution.
• Knowledge of the Border Management Authority Act.
• Understanding of legislation and prescripts applicable prevention and management of Alien and Invasive Species
• Knowledge of applicable international Conventions relating to Alien and Invasive Species.
• Knowledge of the Public Service Act and Regulations as well as the Public Finance Management Act.
• Knowledge of the National Treasury’s Risk Management Framework.
• Understanding of biosecurity risks associated with Ports of Entry, including passenger baggage, cargo, mail, consignments and other potential pathways for the introduction and spread of AIS.
• Knowledge and understanding of AIS prevention, detection, identification, interception and management measures.
• Knowledge of relevant NEMBA, Alien and Invasive Species Regulations, AIS Lists and applicable environmental/biosecurity prescripts.

Requirements

Minimum requirements

• Grade 12
• An Undergraduate qualification at NQF 7 as recognised by SAQA in Natural / Biological Sciences / Environmental Management / Environmental law or a similar area.
• A minimum of 5 years' experience in a specialist role in Alien and Invasive Species (Biosecurity) management.
• Proven knowledge and practical application of biosecurity measures, including the inspection and management of alien and invasive species at ports of entry.
• Ability to identify and assess emerging Alien and Invasive Species (AIS) threats, potential pathways of introduction and spread, and relevant national and international biosecurity trends.
• Demonstrated experience working at a Port of Entry.
• Computer literacy, particularly Microsoft Office applications (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook).
• Will be required to travel nationally and internationally.
• Flexibility in working hours will be required to meet the demands of the role.
• May be required to work overtime.
• Valid driver’s License.