Senior Meterological Technician

About the role

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is hiring a Senior Meterological Technician, based in Marion Island. This is a contract post, paying R338,106 a year. (Approximately 15 Months Contract) How to apply: All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/ Reference number to quote: OC36/2026 Closing date: 09 November 2026, 16:00. No late applications will be accepted Use the new Z83 form and attach a detailed CV. Note: The successful candidate will be required to attend compulsory training at the South African Weather Service in Cape Town. The incumbent will execute duties at Marion Island Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion base. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and selfmotivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition, the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate surface meteorological and atmospheric research project assigned by the Marine Section of SAWS.
• Exercise responsible shift management of the two assistant meteorological technicians.
• Responsible for the supervision of a team of assistant meteorological technicians, provide leadership and guidance on day-to-day operations, including delegation of tasks and ensure submission of daily and monthly reports within stipulated timeframes, ensuring compliance with WMO applicable standards.
• Perform surface meteorological observations, conduct upper-air balloon releases and maintain and verify all meteorological equipment at the remote station of Marion Island.
• Conduct quality control of data, report writing and asset control.
• Assist other team members with logistical and administrative tasks associated with the general running of the base.
• Conduct all duties in accordance with the rules, regulations and standards as set out by the South African Weather Service.

Requirements

• BSc Degree or BTech (NQF Level 6) in Natural Science or an equivalent qualification in a related field recognised by SAQA, with at least one year’s experience in surface meteorological observations, or Grade 12 with a National Weather Certificate and 5 years’ experience in weather observation.
• Previous Island Experience will be an added advantage.
• Technical Competencies:
• Project Management
• Conflict management
• Report writing and communication skills etc. Candidates must be willing to work shifts (both day and night shifts) and on public holidays
• In possible adverse weather conditions
• Candidates must be punctual, dedicated, precise and be willing to work in a team, as well as on their own