The purpose of the Ecological Coordinator position within CapeNature is to facilitate and coordinatethe collection and interpretation of biodiversity related data. This contributes to informing terrestrialand marine biodiversity management planning and decision making through processes such asState of Biodiversity, Protected Area Management Plans (PAMP), the Management EffectivenessTracking Tool (METT) and priority species monitoring in Landscape South.RESPONSIBILITIES:Manage effective data, knowledge and information flow in order to produce quality data,information and intelligence to inform and facilitate strategic adaptive management.Maintain and updated landscape databases for all priority projects.Conduct, facilitate & drive landscape monitoring.Quality check, verify and submit biodiversity data.Provide landscape feedback on tracking priority tasks.Develop, review and update ecological monitoring and data collection protocols.Provide ecological technical assistance and training.Manage ecological filing systems and databases.Provide ecological decision support for effective landscape conservation and ensure soundscientific analysis of data through coordination to guide management planning andassessment.Contribute to the implementation of scientifically based monitoring programs and strategies for identified elements of biodiversity in and around landscape protected areas.Provide ecological decision support to internal components and relevant external partners.Check that data for approved ecological projects is processed and analyzed in collaboration.Where relevant, assistance with all components of fieldwork for priority species monitoring projects.Provide inputs into landscape Game Management Plan applications when requiredCompile in collaboration Standard Operating Procedures, Standard Operating Guidelines, & ecological monitoring protocols.Facilitate and lead integrated landscape and protected area planning and reviewPlay a pivotal role in the PAMP process in the landscapeEnsure that ecological matrices are compiled for all Landscape reserves and components.Ensure that ecological matrices are regularly reviewed for all Landscape reserves and components and assist with compilation of related reports.Contribute to ensure that Protected Area Annual Plan of Operations and ecological matrices are aligned through integrated planning.Contribute to the integration of the eco-matrix into the reserve Integrated Work PlansReview and contribute to relevant ecological internal policies, guidelines, manuals and operating procedures regulating the management of biodiversity.Contribute to the METT assessment process for protected areas.Incorporate METT outcomes into the eco-matrix where relevant.Build landscape intelligence knowledge and capacity and engage stakeholders and partnersto support conservation management and ecosystem resilience through coordination andnetworkingCoordinate landscape ecological meetings in conjunction with the Landscape Conservation Intelligence unit.Support relevant internal and external research projects.Participate in scientific workshops and conferences.Contribute to the custodianship agreement process for priority species.Identify priority ecological projects that require intervention by providing infield training for priority monitoring projects in the Landscape.Attend and participate in relevant meetings, forums, symposiums & peer learning events.MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:An appropriate tertiary qualification in ecology and/or nature conservation (NQF level 7)and at least 5 years of relevant experience.A thorough understanding of ecological theory, ecological processes and components ofbiodiversity.Extensive experience conducting a range of fauna and flora fieldwork preferably in theWestern Cape as well as the associated data processing and analysis.Must be able to turn data into information and document this in reports etc. to informconservation management.Ability to motivate and mentor staff to ensure maximum productivity and optimaldevelopment skills.Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and interface with a wide range of peopleAbility to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team, and independently.Physically and mentally fit and willing and able to undertake strenuous fieldwork undervarying climatic and terrain conditions.Prepared to travel extensively and be away from home for periods of time.Must have a valid driver's license, be competent driving long distances and 4x4 vehicles.Proficiency in two of the three official languages of the Western Cape and high competencyin English writing.High competency in the use of Microsoft Office suite.An excellent working knowledge of GIS.No criminal record.RECOMMENDATIONSKnowledge of the Fynbos, Succulent Karoo & Marine biomes, and associated priorityspecies of the Western Cape.Enjoy working with data!Knowledge of and the ability to interpret conservation policies, protocols and legislation.A confident, committed, service-orientated, organized, and innovative predisposition.Ability to problem solve, prioritize and cope with dynamic circumstancesExcellent multi-tasking skills and ease of adaptability to change.Calm demeanor with an ability to handle stress & work under pressure to meet deadlines.A flexible, understanding, team player, that is always willing to assist the LCI unit complete tasks (within skillset and ability), to meet all relevant deadlines and deliverables, (when required)Apply online at https://capenature.simplify.hr/ Closing date: 10 May 2024
