Field Ranger (Level 4) Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve at CapeNature

CapeNature seeks to appoint a dynamic individual to undertake reserve operations and assist with the natural resource management program and integrated catchment management. 

The candidate will be responsible for ecological data collection and data management, monitoring, quality assurance, infrastructure and equipment maintenance, environmental education and law enforcement and compliance monitoring at the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve. The Field Ranger will also be responsible for supervisory and administrative tasks and will report to the Conservation Officer (On Reserve).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Key Performance Area 1:

Supervisory and Administrative Duties

• Support management in effective management of Protected Area
• Assist with implementation of Annual Plan of Operations.
• Complete log sheets, claim forms, requisitions, asset management, etc...
• Perform reserve standby duties.
• Compile written reports.
• Attend and contribute to management meetings (Report backs, etc...)
• Assist with LED initiatives on/off reserves.
• Assist with Tourism activities including service and maintenance of facilities.
• Act as Senior FR or NC when he/she is absent.

Key Performance Area 2:

Implement Eco-Matrix and Integrated Catchment Management

• Ecological (Biotic, abiotic, cultural-historical, weather, etc.) data collection and capturing and management according to standardized process and Eco Matrixes.
• Infrastructure surveys and record keeping (Buildings, high sites, etc...)
• Carry out quality control duties (AVM, ICM, WoF, etc.)
• Ecological and management monitoring and report compilation
• Assist with research projects.
• Assist with firefighting operations.
• Assist with invasive alien plant control.
• Assist with environmental education.

Key Performance Area 3:

Perform Legal Compliance Quality Assurance and OHS

• Assist with search and rescue operations.
• Carry out patrol duties, observations, and law enforcement (on and off reserves) including Roadblocks.
• Education/extension, warnings, and fines if appropriate
• Provide support to Conservation Services and the Biodiversity Crime unit.
• Assist with risk assessments and quality assurance audits, including OHS.
• Act as Environmental Control Officer

Key Performance Area 4:

Infrastructure and Equipment

• Assist with maintenance and service of facilities.
• Carry out minor repairs and maintenance.
• Maintain vehicles and equipment.
• Transport of staff/contractors/equipment

Key Performance Area 5:

Client Care

• Assist with Tourism activities.
• Provide visitors with information and interpretation.
• Apply basic First Aid
• Assist with gate guard and front office duties, including issuing of permits and receipt of money.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Qualifications and Experience

• National Certificate: Conservation Resource Guardianship (NQF level 2) or equivalent qualification
• At least two years job related experience
• A valid code B driver’s license with 4x4 driving skills and experience.
• Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, QGIS)
• Knowledge and experience in ecological monitoring and law enforcement
• Knowledge and experience in Fire Fighting
• Crew Boss level or higher qualification
• No criminal record
• Project management

Competencies

• Willingness to work weekend shifts and irregular hours.
• Physical ability to perform field ranger duties.
• Strong analytical, strategic, and creative problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge and experience in working with tourist, maintenance of infrastructure and law enforcement.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment managing multiple projects and tight deadlines.
• Good project planning and organizing skills.
• Ability to function independently and within a team.
• Computer literacy plus advanced proficiency in MS-Office.
• Use of QGIS software.