Research Officer

SUMMARY:

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

Are you passionate about marine conservation and sustainability? Join a leading science-based organisation dedicated to protecting Africa’s seas and coastal communities. As a Junior Research Officer, you will support and drive critical research, development, and monitoring initiatives that contribute to sustainable waste management and marine conservation efforts.

About the Role

This role is central to designing high-quality research programmes, managing and analysing datasets, developing impactful interventions, and collaborating with national and international stakeholders. You will play a key role in scientific research, technical reporting, stakeholder engagement, and project management to ensure meaningful contributions to marine sustainability.

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.  

If you are a driven and committed researcher ready to make a difference, apply today! 
Should you not be contacted within two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

POSITION INFO:

Research Officer: Research, Development & Monitoring

 

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