Vegetation Scientist

Job Title: Vegetation Scientist, Spekboom Restoration Project

Division: Technical and Carbon Division

Location: Gqeberha, Eastern Cape

Reports to: Restoration Ecologist

Position Summary:

The Vegetation Scientist will report directly to the Restoration Ecologist and will be responsible for conducting desktop and field-based assessments to evaluate land suitability and eligibility for the project activities. The role involves leveraging spatial data, remote sensing, and on-site observations to inform project design and planning. The Vegetation Scientist will contribute to biodiversity assessments, manage and analyze spatial datasets, and support the preparation of technical documentation. The role combines technical expertise in vegetation ecology with GIS proficiency and field-based data collection to ensure high-quality project deliverables.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Conduct desktop and field assessments to evaluate land suitability and eligibility for inclusion in ARR projects, using spatial data, remote sensing, and on-site observations. 

• Contribute to biodiversity assessments through the identification of key or sensitive plant species and the documentation of field observations. 

• Prepare, manage, and analyse spatial datasets and maps in GIS platforms to inform suitability and eligibility assessments. 

• Estimate the extent of potentially suitable project areas to support project design and planning. 

• Preparation of technical documentation, reports, and other project deliverables. 

• Collaborate with the Technical and Carbon Department to ensure data consistency and alignment with project objectives. 

• Participate in field visits to verify desktop assessments and collect ecological data as required. 

• Provide technical input on vegetation ecology and restoration practices to support project development. 

• Participate in internal and external meetings, technical workshops, and relevant project-related events. 

• Support the Ecology Team with other monitoring activities where required. 

General:

• Embrace a culture of continuous learning by adapting to evolving job responsibilities, driven by NatCarbon’s commitment to innovation, personal growth, and shifting project priorities.


• Some travel within the Eastern and Western cape anticipated, including to remote locations. Travel may on occasion cross weekends and holidays to accommodate schedules. Work hours may be irregular.


• This outline of duties, and responsibilities is not intended to be exhaustive. The employer reserves the right to assign the employee additional duties or responsibilities at any time, provided they are reasonably aligned with the scope of the role or necessitated by operational requirements. The functions and responsibilities detailed within this job description may be subject to modification at the employer’s discretion, based on evolving operational requirements, while remaining consistent with the parameters of the employee’s position.

Skills:

• Excellent knowledge of vegetation ecology and ability to identify key plant species. 

• Strong analytical skills with expertise in spatial data analysis and GIS platforms. 

• Proficiency in remote sensing and spatial data interpretation. 

• Strong organisational and time management abilities. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (Afrikaans and isiXhosa advantageous). 

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. 

• Physically fit and comfortable working in challenging outdoor conditions. 

• Demonstrates initiative, attention to detail, and a passion for ecological restoration. 

Qualifications:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in ecology, botany, environmental science, conservation, or related fields.


• A postgraduate qualification (e.g., Honours or Master’s) in a relevant discipline is advantageous. 

Knowledge and Experience:

• Minimum of 1-2 years’ experience in vegetation ecology, ecological surveying and assessments, or related fieldwork. 

• Proven experience with GIS platforms, remote sensing, and spatial data analysis. 

• Strong understanding of ecological restoration practices and ARR project methodologies. 

• Knowledge of Thicket Biome ecology and the ability to identify key plant species is highly advantageous. 

• Proficiency in data management and analysis tools. 

• Valid Driver’s Licence (off-road driving experience advantageous). 

Working Conditions: 

• Frequent travel within the Eastern and Western Cape anticipated, including to remote locations. Travel may on occasion cross weekends and holidays to accommodate schedules. Work hours may be irregular. 

You will join a great team! We are: 

• From diverse locations and backgrounds, but all experts in our respective fields. We bring together a wide range of cross-sector experiences, ideas, and skills. 

• Relentless in our pursuit of excellence and innovation, always pushing the boundaries and challenging the status quo. But it is not all work for us – we also believe in celebrating our successes, recognising individual contributions, and taking time to support each other’s growth and development. 

• At our core, explorers, constantly learning, evolving, and seeking new ways to deliver impactful solutions. We are not afraid to dream big, take risks, and step out of our comfort zones because we know that together, we can achieve great things. 

Compensation: 

To help us attract and retain top talent, NatCarbon Africa pays employees competitively to the market, depending on experience. Salary is one component of NatCarbon Africa’s total compensation package which also includes health care and life insurance, contributions to each employee’s retirement plan, paid time off and funds to support professional development. We will recognize employees who go beyond expected performance with salary increases and/or promotions. 

In return, we expect each employee to, at a minimum: 

• Meet expectations in terms of work effort and performance. 

• Take the initiative to build the skills and knowledge needed to do their job effectively; and 

• Embody the values of NatCarbon Africa. 

How to Apply: 

To apply, please send us the following: 

• Cover letter (not to exceed one page). 

• Resume/CV (not to exceed three pages). 

Please add app.bamboohr.com to your contact list to ensure you receive emails from us 

NatCarbon Africa provides equal opportunity for all job applicants and employees and is committed to providing a work environment free of discrimination. 

*Only applications received online via the NatCarbon website or LinkedIn Page will be considered*