Chief Officer: Environmental Impact Officer (Post Level 8) (Contract Appointment: 2 Years) Job ID: 5874 at University of the Free State

Please ensure that all relevant documentation is attached to your application. 

• A detailed curriculum vitae and cover letter. 
• Copies of qualifications (please provide the SAQA accreditation in the case of foreign qualifications).
• A copy of your identity document (ID or passport in the case of foreign nationals).
• Proof of registration with a Professional Body (if applicable).
• A copy of your driver’s license (if applicable).
• Confirmation of employment from current employer / last employer if unemployed (only applicable to external applicants).

Duties and responsibilities:

• Focus on monitoring water usage, implementing and monitoring conservation measures, and promoting practices that reduce water waste. Assess water availability and quality on UFS properties.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote good stewardship. 
• Oversee all compliance activities and maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant laws and standards. 
• Review environmental impact assessments for property development projects to identify potential environmental risks and impacts. This includes evaluating factors such as soil contamination, habitat disruption, and air emissions.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and minimize negative impacts on surrounding ecosystems and UFS properties.  
• Develop and oversee programs aimed at reducing, reusing, and recycling waste.
• Initiate and implement stormwater management strategies to minimize flooding, erosion, and pollution on UFS properties. May involve incorporating green infrastructure solutions, reducing the burden on municipal drainage systems and protecting water quality in nearby water bodies.
• Develop and implement sustainability plans for UFS properties that integrate environmental considerations into long-term management strategies that include waste management, energy management, water management and biodiversity. 
• Incorporate sustainability initiatives in the new build projects, including setting up standards.
• Identify and address risks proactively to minimize environmental risks for the UFS.
• Identify and ensure compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations to minimize project delays and mitigate legal risks.

Inherent requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or an Advanced Diploma/B.Tech degree/Postgraduate Certificate on NQF level 7 or a 3-year National Diploma on NQF level 6 in Environmental and Water Science.
• A minimum of three (3) years relevant working experience related to the duties and responsibilities.
• A valid Code B driver’s licence.
• Must be available to travel and work on all campuses.

Recommendations:

• Experience in Geography and environmental consultation