SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL PARKS

VACANCY:  SCIENTIST: ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL SCIENCE

PATERSON GRADING D3

SCIENTIFIC SERVICES, Cape Research Centre, Tokai in Cape Town

Closing date:  5 November 2015

 

A vacancy for a Scientist: Environmental Social Science exists at the Cape Research Centre, a research unit of the Conservation Services Division in SANParks. The successful candidate will be expected to conduct research to better understand ways in which people interact with and consitute components of the natural marine and terrestial environments. The Cape Research Centre is responsible for research in the Agulhas, Bontebok, Table Mountain, West Coast, Tankwa and Namaqua National Parks.

 

Key responsibilities include:

  • conducting or overseeing applied research to address socio-ecological and tourism questions
  • developing and implementing relevant monitoring programmes, with emphasis on sustainable resource use initiatives, developing cultural heritage and community benefit projects. 
  • providing support to scientists of other disciplines on integrating social aspects into their research
  • keeping abreast of current scientific thinking and the peer-reviewed literature and pursuing appropriate academic development and growth to maintain scientific credibility and recognition
  • publishing research findings in scientific journals and popular media
  • translating research and monitoring outputs into appropriate policy and management guidelines
  • providing advice to senior management within sphere of expertise in support of park management plans
  • liaising with SANParks People and Conservation and developing networks with external scientists and stakeholders towards greater involvement in collaborative projects
  • representing SANParks at relevant meetings, committees and workshops
  • work planning and scheduling, budget control, personnel supervision, general administration.

 

 Requirements:

 

  • A minimum of a Masters degree (preferably PhD) in an appropriate field of social-ecological science, enhanced by at least 3-5 years relevant experience.
  • Proven independent publication record in peer review journals.
  • Excellent written, verbal communication and networking skills.
  • Excellent people management skills.
  • A sound knowledge of conservation practices and principles, especially those relating to protected areas and sustainable resource use.
  • Understanding of climate change – mitigation and adapation would be an advantage
  • Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods, data analysis and report writing
  • A valid Code B driver’s license and own transport.
  • Able and willing to travel extensively to national parks and regularly conduct fieldwork.
  • Research leadership and supervision experience would be advantageous.

 

The remuneration package includes a basic salary, based on the salary scale of a position with a Paterson D3 job grade, and allowances and benefits as specified in the HR Tariff document and Conditions of Service of SANParks.

 

To apply, e-mail your application accompanied by a CV and certified copies of your qualifications to Jacqueline.jacobus@sanparks.org

P O Box 787

PRETORIA

0001

Contact number: (012) 426-5049

 

Candidates who have not been contacted within 14 days of the closing date may consider their applications as unsuccessful.