The South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) is offering exciting job opportunities for those looking to embark on a unique adventure while contributing to environmental conservation efforts. With positions available on Marion Island, a remote Sub-Antarctic island, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for South Africans seeking challenging, rewarding, and meaningful work.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment is committed to affirmative action, ensuring that these opportunities are available to all South Africans, with special consideration for persons with disabilities and members of underrepresented groups.
This article explores two key positions available at the Marion Island Base: Assistant Environmental Officer and Assistant Meteorological Technician, both on a 15-month contract. Read on to learn more about these roles and what you can expect from life on Marion Island.
Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment Jobs Available
1. Assistant Environmental Officer: Marion Island
Position Overview
- Position Title: Assistant Environmental Officer (Marion Island)
- Reference Number: OC24/2024
- Contract Duration: 15 months (April 2025 to May 2026)
- Salary: R255,450 per annum (plus 37% lieu in benefits)
- Location: Marion Island
The role of Assistant Environmental Officer is focused on supporting the conservation efforts at Marion Island, including managing alien species, enforcing biosecurity measures, and ensuring that environmental laws are upheld. This position will require the successful candidate to stay at Marion Island for 13 continuous months, working in a highly isolated and physically demanding environment.
Requirements
- National Diploma in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Management, Conservation, Natural Sciences, or a relevant qualification.
- 0-1 year of work experience (entry-level).
- Knowledge of environmental legislation and public service procedures.
- Computer literacy, report writing, and strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Key Duties
- Alien Species Eradication: Assist in the implementation of the Alien Species Eradication Plan, focusing on the removal of invasive plants, invertebrates, and rodents.
- Biosecurity Measures: Help ensure that biosecurity measures are followed to prevent the introduction of new species that could damage the island’s ecosystem.
- Environmental Auditing: Support environmental compliance efforts, including compiling monthly environmental compliance officer (ECO) reports.
- Waste Management: Assist with the implementation of the SANAP Waste Management Handbook, ensuring that all waste on the island is managed and disposed of according to regulations.
What You Need to Know About Marion Island
Marion Island is located in the sub-Antarctic region and forms part of the Prince Edward Islands. Due to its remoteness, living and working on the island comes with its own set of challenges. The weather conditions can be harsh, and the successful candidate must be prepared for long hours and challenging tasks. However, working on the island also presents the opportunity to engage in significant conservation work that contributes to the health and preservation of a unique ecosystem.
2. Assistant Meteorological Technician: Marion Island
Position Overview
- Position Title: Assistant Meteorological Technician (2 Posts Available)
- Reference Number: OC17/2024
- Contract Duration: 15 months (April 2025 to May 2026)
- Salary: R255,450 per annum (plus 37% lieu in benefits)
- Location: Marion Island
The role of Assistant Meteorological Technician involves working with the South African Weather Service (SAWS) to collect critical meteorological data that will contribute to South Africa’s weather monitoring and research efforts. The successful candidates will play a key role in the operation of surface meteorological and atmospheric research projects, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the quality of collected data.
Requirements
- Grade 12 with a National Weather Certificate.
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in weather observation.
- Previous experience working on an island or in extreme weather conditions will be an advantage.
Key Duties
- Weather Observation: Conduct surface meteorological observations, including measuring and recording atmospheric conditions such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and precipitation.
- Balloon Releases: Perform upper-air balloon releases to gather data on the upper layers of the atmosphere.
- Data Quality Control: Conduct quality control checks on meteorological data to ensure accuracy.
- Equipment Maintenance: Maintain and verify the equipment at the remote station on Marion Island, ensuring that all instruments are functioning properly.
- Team Collaboration: Assist with logistical and administrative tasks associated with the general running of the base, working closely with other team members.
Learn more about the job Here.
Why Marion Island?
Marion Island provides a unique working environment, with stunning natural landscapes and a remote, isolated setting. While the island presents its challenges, including the physical and mental strain of working in such an environment, it offers an unmatched opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Important Information for Both Positions at Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment
Living Conditions
Candidates for both positions must be prepared to live and work on Marion Island for the full contract period from April 2025 to May 2026. Returning to South Africa before the contract end date is not an option. This means candidates must be self-sufficient, resilient, and capable of living in close quarters with a small group of people. Though the base is well-equipped with email, fax, and satellite telephone services, the island’s isolation can be mentally and emotionally challenging.
Physical and Mental Fitness
Due to the demanding nature of the work and the harsh living conditions on Marion Island, candidates must be physically fit and mentally prepared for long working hours, sometimes in extreme conditions. The island’s isolation and challenging environment require candidates to be strong-willed and adaptable.
Medical and Psychometric Assessments
Before being appointed to these positions, shortlisted candidates will undergo a thorough medical examination and psychometric assessment to ensure they are physically and mentally prepared for the challenges ahead. These assessments are provided at no cost to the applicant.
Application Process
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply by the closing date of 28 October 2024. Applications must be submitted on the new Z83 form, available from any Public Service Department, and should be accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae. Applicants with foreign qualifications must have their qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Submit Applications to:
- Director-General, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Private Bag X4390, Cape Town, 8000
- Hand-deliver: 63 Strand Street, Cape Town, 8000
- Email: Recruitmentcoastal@dffe.gov.za
For Further Information:
- Enquiries regarding the Assistant Environmental Officer position can be directed to Ms. D Kotsedi at 021 493 7354.
- For the Assistant Meteorological Technician position, contact Ms. R Chengwe at 021 935 5700.
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Working in the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to vital environmental and meteorological research in one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth. The positions offer a rewarding challenge for individuals looking for meaningful work that helps protect the planet. If you meet the requirements and are ready for a new adventure, don’t miss the chance to apply!
