Control Biodiversity Officer Grade A: World Heritage Convention Governance

About the role

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is hiring a Control Biodiversity Officer Grade A: World Heritage Convention Governance, based in Pretoria. This is a permanent post, paying R636,978 a year. How to apply: All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/ Reference number to quote: BC24/2026 Closing date: 09 November 2026, 16:00. No late applications will be accepted Use the new Z83 form and attach a detailed CV.

Responsibilities

• Enhance international cooperation supportive of SA’s Biodiversity priorities.
• Facilitate SA’s (National) preparatory meetings for the World Heritage Committee, General Assembly Session and any other ad hoc Committee sessions.
• Coordinate participation of the SA delegation in these international meetings including the Africa preparatory meeting to the World Heritage Committee.
• Enhance sector education and awareness.
• Develop concept document to guide process plan including national and international Stakeholder mapping, Partners, Content to be covered and overall project deliverables.
• Develop outcomes reports.
• Ensure Equitable and sound corporate governance.
• Facilitate the development and review of agreements with relevant stakeholders.
• Conserve, protect and mitigate biodiversity threats.
• Liaise with Countries in cases of potential transboundary or serial World Heritage to discuss the governance and legislation, policies and other applicable tools on the implementation of the Convention in South Africa.

Requirements

• A four-year Degree (NQF8) in Natural/Environmental Sciences or relevant qualification as recognized by SAQA plus at least 6 years’ post qualification experience in the relevant field.
• Knowledge of Environmental Legislation (WHCA, NEMPAA, NEMA, NEMBA).
• Understanding of cultural heritage legislation.
• Knowledge of UNESCO related Conventions.
• Knowledge of World Heritage Nominations and proclamation process, Scientific principles governing World heritage sites management and Relevant law, norms and standards, planning and organizing.
• Research and analytical skills.
• Ability to develop, interpret and apply policies.
• Good verbal and written communication skills, Good Interpersonal skills, Sound organizing and planning skills Interpersonal skills, Technical report writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Ability to work under extreme pressure.