Marine Field Ranger (Dassen Island Nature Reserve – Ganzekraal Conservation Area) at SANCCOB

Key responsibilities

• Carry out Field Surveys & Implement the ecological programme of work (terrestrial and aquatic, freshwater and marine)
• Conduct Ecological (biotic, abiotic, cultural-historical, weather etc.) data collection, monitoring and data capturing
• Infrastructure surveys (buildings, roads, fences, highsites etc.)
• DFFE: Oceans & Coasts Special Program implementation as per Integrated Work Plan and MOA/MOU on Dassen Island
• Assist with the implementation of seabird research projects
• Ecological Data management and compilation of monthly and quarterly data submissions and reports
• Rescue and Stabilisation of oiled, injured, sick and abandoned seabirds – especially African penguins on Dassen Island
• Participate in management effectiveness evaluations
• Perform Supervisory and administrative duties
• Compilation of written reports
• Supervise and assist all local and international researchers
• Provide direct support to Management and assist with reserve planning, compilation of annual work plans and  budget.
• Ensure sound asset and fleet management
• Prepare specifications required for purchases
• Prepare quarterly reports
• Perform Legal Compliance and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) duties
• Implement OHS Policies and Guidelines
• Carry out patrol duties and man observation posts as and when required.
• Provide Education/Extension to visitors and address unauthorised access to the nature reserves.
• Maintain Illegal Activities and Crime Registers
• Attend court cases (represent CapeNature) as and when required.

4. Infrastructure and Equipment

• Carry out minor repairs and maintenance to infrastructure and equipment.
• Prepare specifications for the minor repair and maintenance of infrastructure and equipment.
• Maintain the designated African penguin Sick Bay on Dassen Island and rehabilitation/response equipment. Elevate all needs to management in writing.

5. Assist in Disaster Management and Alien Vegetation Management 

• Maintain a level of preparedness and respond to all oiling incidents and disasters at Dassen Island following prescribed methods and protocol.
• Assist accredited emergency services during emergency and rescue operations.
• Implement invasive alien plant and weedy species eradication plans.
• Ensure the application of herbicide to weedy species and undertake manual eradication of weedy species on Dassen Island
• Undertake Quality Control duties for special projects aimed at invasive species management, infrastructure or equipment upgrade/maintenance and fire protection.

Competency Profile

• Educational Requirements: A relevant NQF Level 6 or equivalent certification in Nature Conservation

Knowledge

• Knowledge of environmental legislation such as the National Environmental Management Act, National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, Integrated Coastal Management Act, Marine Living Resources Act and the Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance
• Disaster management
• Property and asset management
• Knowledge of ecological processes and biodiversity management
• Experience in information management.
• Experience with Microsoft Office software (Access, Excel, Word) required.
• Knowledge of coastal, marine and island environments
• Knowledge of seabird monitoring techniques
• Seabird stabilisation and rehabilitation techniques
• Computer literacy plus advanced proficiency in MS-Office
• Use of GIS software

Personal Attributes

• A passion for seabirds and the marine environment is essential.
• Job specific health requirements
• Physical fitness to be able to perform activities
• Technical / mechanical ability
• Good project planning, coordination and organising skills.
• Task and goal orientated.
• Practical
• Able to work long and/or irregular hours, including weekends and public holidays
• Emotional maturity
• Ability to work and perform in isolation and in a team
• Self-Motivated
• Energetic
• Dynamic
• Willingness to learn/improve

Recommended

• Completion of Fisheries Control Officer training
• Completion of WIO-COMPAS Level 1 certification
• Possession of a valid Peace Officer’s certificate or Environmental Management Inspectorate certification
• ICS certification / Fire Fighting qualifications

Other Requirements

• A valid Code-B driver’s license
• Available to travel locally and internationally at short notice.
• Willing to receive identified and necessary vaccinations.
• South African citizen or valid work permit

Please send your CV (max. 3 pages) with contactable references and a letter of motivation for attention of SANCCOB’s Head of Conservation to Nicky Stander