Department of Water and Sanitation is Hiring: Control Environmental Officer 2025

EdupageMarch 4, 2025

0 137 3 minutes read

Exciting Career Opportunity in Water Resource Management

Department of water and sanitation: Are you passionate about environmental sustainability and water resource management? Do you have the qualifications and experience to make a meaningful impact on water conservation and regulatory compliance? If so, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) invites you to apply for the position of Control Environmental Officer Grade A within the Regulations, Compliance, and Enforcement Branch, Water Use Authorization Directorate.

This is a re-advertisement, and all applicants who have previously applied must reapply to be considered.

Position Overview: Department of water and sanitation

Job Title: Control Environmental Officer Grade A
Reference Number: 140325/02
Salary: R580,551 per annum (OSD – Occupational Specific Dispensation)
Location: Pretoria Head Office

Minimum Requirements

Department of water

To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

A four-year degree in Natural or Environmental Sciences or an equivalent qualification.
A minimum of six (6) years of post-qualification experience in environmental or water resource management.
A valid, unexpired driver’s license (mandatory for fieldwork and travel obligations).
Extensive experience in integrated water resource management, water resource protection, and water use authorization.
Strong knowledge of South African water legislation and policies, including:
- National Water Act (NWA) 36 of 1998
- Water Services Act 108 of 1997
- Relevant environmental laws and guidelines, such as the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (CARA), National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), and Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA).
Proven skills in policy development, implementation, and monitoring.
Experience in human resource management, including leadership, supervision, and mentoring of junior staff.
Strong negotiation, liaison, and networking skills, particularly in cooperative governance and stakeholder engagement.
Ability to work in multidisciplinary environments, collaborating with both internal and external stakeholders.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Willingness to work irregular hours, travel across provinces and nationwide, and function effectively under pressure.

Key Responsibilities: Department of water

The successful candidate will be responsible for the following tasks:

1. Water Use Authorization and Compliance Support

Provide technical guidance and support to departmental components and Water Management Institutions (WMIs) in processing water use authorization applications from various sectors.
Ensure adherence to national water policies, regulations, and compliance standards.
Review and evaluate applications to ensure responsible and sustainable water use.

2. Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Management

Foster effective communication and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Coordinate stakeholder engagement within the department and the broader water sector.
Represent the department in public forums, consultations, and regulatory discussions.
Engage with other government departments involved in environmental permitting and compliance.

3. Regulatory Tool Development & Implementation

Develop, review, and implement regulatory tools for water use authorization processes.
Ensure that regulatory instruments align with national environmental and water conservation policies.
Maintain and update policies, protocols, guidelines, and legislation related to water use.

4. Training & Capacity Building

Design and deliver training programs on water use authorization policies and procedures.
Provide technical and scientific support to department officials and stakeholders.
Act as a mentor and supervisor to junior staff, ensuring knowledge transfer and skills development.

5. Research & Policy Development

Identify research needs related to water resource management and implement research projects.
Utilize research findings to enhance policy effectiveness and improve water governance.
Monitor industry trends and emerging challenges in environmental conservation and water security.

6. Legal & Compliance Support

Participate in water use authorization appeals and litigation proceedings.
Assist in drafting legal responses, compliance notices, and environmental impact assessments.
Ensure that water use applications comply with legal and environmental best practices.

7. Reporting & Presentation

Compile reports, case studies, and policy recommendations.
Present findings and policy updates to senior management and key stakeholders.
Provide clear and comprehensive documentation on compliance, enforcement, and regulatory matters.

Why Join the Department of Water and Sanitation?

By joining the Department of Water and Sanitation, you will:

Work in a dynamic and impactful role that contributes directly to water conservation and environmental sustainability.
Engage in policy formulation, stakeholder collaboration, and regulatory enforcement at a national level.
Gain exposure to multidisciplinary teams and government agencies working in the environmental sector.
Enjoy competitive remuneration, career development opportunities, and training programs.
Be part of a team committed to protecting and managing South Africa’s vital water resources.