Officer: Socio-Economic Transformation (SET) at South African National Parks (SANParks)

• A vacancy currently exists for an Officer: SET in Agulhas National Park. The successful candidate will report to the Park Manager. The successful candidate will facilitate the implementation of sustainable programmes associated with benefits that address a range of human, social, cultural and economic needs to improve the livelihoods of communities.
• The successful candidate will reside Outside the Park.

Requirements

• National Diploma/ Degree in Social Sciences / Education/ Community Development/ Nature Conservation or equivalent.
• 3 – 5 years’ experience in community facilitation, engagement, or development preferably in a conservation, environmental or educational context.
• Experience in administration, report writing, financial management.
• Experience working with conservation and/or, environmental and/or educational programs/projects.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and ability to work with diverse communities.
• Valid Drivers’ licence, PDP will be an added advantage.
• Computer literacy with working knowledge of Microsoft packages.
• Good communication, interpersonal, project management and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in English and another local language (Afrikaans preferrable).
• Job involves frequent travelling, driving long distances (remote areas) and irregular working hours.

Responsibilities

Implementation of SET programmes, strategy and policies:

• Drive socio-economic transformation and community development, including youth empowerment and support for local communities.
• Manage and support conservation and community-based projects aligned with sustainable practices.
• Promote research and knowledge sharing, especially in social sciences and conservation education.
• Ensure sustainable use of natural resources through coordinated initiatives.
• Preserve and integrate cultural heritage and indigenous knowledge into conservation efforts and SANParks operations.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Develop sustainable partnerships with communities and stakeholders that will be used as mechanisms to ensure constructive and intentional interaction in mutually beneficial programs and projects.
• Liaise with community- based interest groups and NGOs.
• Building and maintaining a sound relationship between the park and its neighbouring communities and promoting SANParks’ image.

Corporate Social Investment (CSI) & Wildlife Economy Projects:

• Coordinate and implement Corporate Social Investment (CSI) and wildlife economy projects that create local benefits such as skills development and job opportunities.
• Promote and support community participation in business and biodiversity economy initiatives within the park.
• Facilitate community-based economic development and empowerment projects for sustainable livelihoods.
• Establish and support environmental awareness programmes for schools, communities, and park visitors.

Personnel Management:

• Oversee staff management, including training, mentoring, discipline, and performance evaluation.
• Promote teamwork, collaboration, and employee wellbeing, including wellness and support programmes.
• Monitor and coordinate operations and compliance, including BSP team oversight and site inspections.

Financial Management:

• Develop and manage budgets in line with SANParks financial guidelines, ensuring effective financial control.
• Oversee procurement processes and ensure compliance with SCM policies and procedures.
• Manage inventory, stock, and assets to maintain accountability and efficiency.
• Support revenue collection and governance processes, including tourism income and BID committee participation.

Salary

• R501,165.00 – R701,610.00 Annual Package

Closing Date

• 09 July 2026