Assistant Meteorological Technician

About the role

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is hiring an Assistant Meteorological Technician, based in Marion Island. This is a contract post, paying R280,278 a year. (X2 Posts (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: OC29/2026 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

• Assist and actively participate in the running of the surface meteorological and atmospheric research project assigned by the Marine Section of SAWS.
• Perform surface meteorological observations, conduct upper-air balloon releases and maintain and verify all equipment at the remote station of Marion Island.
• Conduct quality control of data and when required or perform tasks within the prescribed scope of work as delegated by the Senior Meteorological Technician.
• 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

• National Diploma in Natural Sciences or an equivalent relevant qualification (NQF Level 6) recognised by SAQA, with 0–1 year of relevant experience, or Grade 12 with a National Weather Certificate and 2 years of experience in weather observation.
• Knowledge of Automatic Weather Stations and Automatic Rain Stations, Knowledge of South African Weather Service policies and procedures, Knowledge of international standards such as WMO and ICAO Technical.
• Competencies:
• Communication and interpersonal 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