Environmental Officer Production Grade A: DESTEA 27/08/25

Environmental Officer Production Grade A: DESTEA 27/08/25

The Environmental Officer: EIA will be responsible for evaluating and processing Environmental Impact Assessment applications, providing technical and procedural guidance to applicants, and ensuring that development projects in the province align with legislative requirements. This role requires strong analytical and advisory skills, as the incumbent will act as a key technical resource for both internal and external stakeholders. The officer will also support integrated environmental management by contributing to decision-making processes, state of the environment reporting, and compliance oversight.

Job Overview:

• Job Title: Environmental Officer Production Grade A: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
• Company/Department: Free State Provincial Government – Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA)
• Reference Number: DESTEA 27/08/25
• Location: Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
• Employment Type: Permanent (12-month probation period)
• Closing Date: 05 September 2025 at 16:00
• Salary: R343 842 per annum (OSD – Occupation Specific Dispensation, determined in line with the regulatory framework)

Company Overview

The Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) is the custodian of sustainable environmental governance and socio-economic development in the Free State. Through its Environmental Management Directorate, the department ensures compliance with environmental laws, manages environmental impacts of development projects, and promotes the responsible use of natural resources. DESTEA’s role in Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) is vital to balancing economic growth with ecological sustainability, safeguarding environmental rights, and ensuring future generations benefit from a healthy and resilient natural environment.

Minimum Requirements

• An appropriate Bachelor’s Degree in Natural/Physical Science, Environmental Science/Management, or a related field (SAQA-recognised).

• At least 1 year of experience in environmental management.

• Strong communication and report-writing skills.

• Computer literacy (MS Office and environmental reporting tools).

• A valid driver’s license.

Added Advantages:

• Demonstrated experience in handling at least 2 EIA applications.

• Registered as at least a Candidate Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) with EAPASA.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• EIA Applications Management:

  • Process and evaluate EIA applications submitted in terms of NEMA and related regulations.

  • Provide clear technical and procedural guidance to applicants and stakeholders.

  • Draft and recommend environmental authorizations for submission to the delegated authority.

• Stakeholder Engagement & Technical Advice:

  • Attend Environmental Management Committee (EMC) meetings to present projects and provide technical advice.

  • Develop environmental advice notes and recommendations for relevant stakeholders.

  • Support interdepartmental collaboration to strengthen integrated environmental management.

• Site Inspections & Reporting:

  • Conduct field inspections to verify the accuracy of submitted applications and environmental reports.

  • Compile detailed inspection reports with findings and recommendations.

  • Contribute to State of the Environment reporting by gathering, analyzing, and disseminating data.

• Administrative & Support Functions:

  • Maintain accurate records of applications, authorizations, and compliance conditions.

  • Ensure timely responses to environmental queries and requests for information.

  • Support decision-making processes within DESTEA by providing technical input and documentation.

Application Process

Applicants must submit the new Z.83 application form, available from Public Service offices or online at www.dpsa.gov.za-vacancies, accompanied by a comprehensive and recently updated CV only (no need for certified copies of qualifications and ID at the initial stage).

• Submission Methods:

  • Hand Delivery: Ground Floor Security Entrance, 113 St Andrews Building, St Andrew Street, Bloemfontein.

  • Email: recruitment3@destea.gov.za (Quote DESTEA 27/08/25 in the subject line).

Important Notes:

• The successful candidate will be expected to work long hours and travel extensively.

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and required to submit certified copies of qualifications and undergo background checks.

• Applications received after the closing date or via fax will not be considered.

Enquiries

For more information regarding this post, please contact Ms. N.M. Nkoe at 082 040 4195.

Also see: Environmental Officer Production: Grade A DESTEA 26/08/25