Key details

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Requirements

A Science Degree (BSc Hons) in Environmental Science, Aquatic Science, Hydrology, Water Quality Science or relevant natural science qualification.

Three (3) years of post-qualification scientific experience in water quality monitoring, ecological assessment or pollution impact analysis.

Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist.

The disclosure of a valid unexpired driver’s license.

Knowledge of the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998), including Resource Directed Measures, waste-related water uses and water quality management frameworks.

Sound understanding of ecological Reserve principles and aquatic ecosystem monitoring approaches, including nationally recognized eco-status assessment frameworks.

Demonstrated ability to analyse scientific monitoring data and compile structured technical reports.

Knowledge of national water resource monitoring systems will be advantageous.

Strong reporting and organizational skills.

Ability and willingness to travel frequently and undertake field inspections and site assessments.

Duties

Conduct strategic water quality and ecological monitoring, including analysis of trends, risk identification and resource status assessments within the Water Management Area.

Support the development, alignment, and governance of strategic water-quality monitoring networks, including ecological water requirement sites, and ensure data integrity and reporting readiness.

Undertake site inspections and technical assessments during pollution incidents to evaluate water-quality impacts, ecological risks, and potential exceedances of Resource Quality Objectives, and compile evidence-based reports and recommendations.

Review and comment on environmental submissions, including Scoping Reports and Environmental Impact Assessment Reports, with a focus on water quality risks, waste-related 125 impacts, ecosystem integrity and compliance with Resource Directed Measures.

Provide technical input into the Catchment Management Strategy and ensure protection requirements are integrated into allocation and reconciliation processes.

Provide evidence-based scientific support to compliance directorates on water quality and waste discharge matters where required.

Contribute to continuous improvement of monitoring systems, data governance and scientific reporting standards, and work collaboratively across quantity and quality functions to address cross-cutting water resource management challenges.

Engage in stakeholder and technical forums to communicate scientific findings and promote integrated catchment management.

How to apply

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Notes

The Pongola-Umzimkulu Catchment Management Agency is a Public Water Resource Management Agency, established in line with the provisions of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act no 36 of 1998) (NWA) and National Water Policy for South Africa.

It is an entity of the National Department of Water and Sanitation.

Employees appointed in the CMA have similar employment terms and conditions as those of employees appointed in terms of the Public Service Act, though not employed in terms of the Public Service Act.