Research Officer

SUMMARY:

12-Month Contract (Renewable) | Gqeberha, South Africa | Environmental Research & Conservation

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Research & Analysis: Conduct and analyse research on marine conservation and sustainable waste management in coastal communities.
• Data Management: Establish, manage, and synthesise monitoring databases and existing datasets.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with universities, NGOs, government bodies, and external partners to drive collaborative research initiatives.
• Project & Resource Management: Allocate and track human and financial resources for research activities and interventions.
• Technical Reporting & Publications: Produce technical reports, scientific manuscripts, and peer-reviewed publications to support policy and decision-making.
• Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E): Ensure that internal monitoring and evaluation systems remain current and effective.
• Capacity Building & Training: Support the development and training of volunteers and ensure alignment with research and conservation activities.
• Advocacy & Awareness: Assist with funding proposals, communication content, and stakeholder engagement strategies.
• Public Engagement: Present research findings at meetings, workshops, and conferences.

What You Bring

• Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences or a related field (PhD advantageous).
• 5+ years of experience in environmental research, project management, or conservation initiatives.
• Strong scientific writing skills with a track record of technical reporting and professional publications.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing strategic plans.
• Ability to work independently and lead multi-disciplinary teams.
• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel and engage with coastal communities.
• Knowledge of global sustainability frameworks such as the Global Plastics Treaty and marine conservation policies.
• Public speaking and stakeholder engagement skills.

The Ideal Candidate

• Passionate about marine sustainability and environmental research (be well informed on the latest global developments on plastics (e.g. the Global Plastics Treaty), climate change, marine conservation and education).
• Proactive, well-organised, and adaptable to a dynamic research environment.
• Skilled in data analysis, research methodologies, and possess a basic understanding of stakeholder strategies.
• A strong communicator who thrives in collaborative and interdisciplinary settings.
• A SA citizen with a clean criminal history and valid driver's license.

More About the Team

• Work with a highly respected organisation committed to science-driven environmental solutions.
• Contribute to meaningful research with global impact on marine conservation and sustainability.
• Engage with international research partners, policymakers, and NGOs.
• Be part of a passionate, professional, and growth-focused team.

Job Details

• Location: Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa.
• Duration: 12-month fixed-term contract, renewable.
• Start Date: As soon as possible.
• Salary: Competitive, Paterson Grade C.
• Short-listed candidates may be expected to complete and pass online assessments before moving to the next stage of the recruitment process.  

POSITION INFO:

Research Officer: Research, Development & Monitoring