Capenature Conservation Officer: On Reserve (Level 8) Vacancy 2026 | Salary: R530,920 - R613,619 p.a.

Opportunity Overview

Capenature is seeking a dedicated Conservation Officer to join their team and manage protected area operations at the Limietberg Nature Reserve & World Heritage Site in Paarl, Western Cape. This permanent role offers a significant opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation in a vital natural area.

The successful candidate will support the Conservation Manager in delivering professional, coordinated, and integrated protected area management. Key aspects of the role include enhancing ecosystem conservation and restoration, promoting landscape conservation and stewardship, facilitating access, advocating for environmental causes, and ensuring compliance with environmental law.

This position is ideal for an analytical and competent individual passionate about conservation, offering a chance to apply and develop expertise in biodiversity management, project execution, and environmental law enforcement within a world heritage site.

Minimum Requirements

• Entry-level experience in environmental or conservation fields.
• Adequate knowledge and experience in protected area and World Heritage Site biodiversity conservation and management.
• Experience in project management, compliance, and enforcement.
• A clear understanding of CapeNature’s legal obligations, mandate, and environmental protection.
• Demonstrated competence, analytical skills, and dedication to conservation.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist Reserve Management in achieving effective protected area management and expansion.
• Implement the protected area management plan, including subsidiary and annual plans of operation, and associated monitoring frameworks.
• Interpret and apply relevant biodiversity, conservation, financial, and administrative policies, plans, and guidelines.
• Support Reserve Management with effective Integrated Catchment Management, focusing on invasive species, fire, and fuel load management.
• Undertake project management and implement contract management related to conservation initiatives.
• Build relationships with neighbours and partners to support protected area expansion and biodiversity conservation across the landscape.
• Manage infrastructure maintenance schedules within the reserve.
• Prepare progress reports and provide site-level data to inform annual operations plans.
• Implement environmental education and awareness programs as per strategic plans.
• Facilitate access and citizen science activities at Limietberg Nature Reserve.
• Actively participate in the Limietberg Protected Area Advisory Committee.
• Maintain sound relationships with neighbours and partners to address land and water use impacts.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the Capenature careers portal.

Steps to apply:

• Visit the Capenature careers portal at: https://capenature.simplify.hr/
• Search for the "Conservation Officer: On Reserve (Level 8)" vacancy.
• Follow the instructions on the portal to complete your application.

The closing date for applications is 04 August 2026. Ensure your application is submitted before this deadline.