WWF is the world\u2019s largest and most respected independent conservation organisation, with over 6 million supporters and a global network active in over 100 countries. WWF’s mission is to stop the degradation of the Earth’s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature, by conserving the world’s biological diversity, ensuring that the use of renewable natural resources is sustainable, and promoting the reduction of pollution and wasteful consumption.<\/p>\n
WWF South Africa is a national office that is part of the WWF network. We are a local NGO that has worked for 50 years with the aim of inspiring all South Africans to live in harmony with nature, for the benefit of our country and the wellbeing of all our people. WWFs work is for nature, for you.<\/p>\n
Our work is challenging and exciting and we love what we do. To join our team, you need to be brilliant at what you do, passionate, results-orientated and have a positive attitude.<\/p>\n
Background:<\/strong> <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Job Title: Extension Officer: Conservation Champion Programme<\/strong> Job Summary:<\/strong> 1.Provide technical input to the WWF Conservation Champion wine farm environmental assessments as part of the annual review process:<\/strong> 2.Monitoring & Evaluation (including GIS):<\/strong> 3.Stakeholder Engagement:<\/strong>
\nIt is well recognized that landowners, as the \u201cstewards of the land\u201d can play an important role in the long term conservation of our natural heritage, ecological functions such as water provision and healthy soil that provide food security in a changing climate. With 95% of wine growing taking place in the unique habitat of the Cape floral kingdom, WWF initiated a pioneering partnership between the South African wine industry and the conservation sector. The project works with landowners to ensure they are aware of and conserving their unique natural heritage, and that their farming practices do not have any negative impacts on the surrounding environment.
\nWWF is looking for an energetic and suitably qualified Extension Officer to join the small Sustainable Agriculture team. The role will be responsible for providing technical advisory support around biodiversity stewardship, leading agricultural practices, effective resource management for the (50+) WWF Conservation Champion farms. The position is full time, based out of the Stellenbosch office and will require extensive travel within the Western Cape to undertake farm visits.<\/p>\n
\nLocation:<\/strong> Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
\nReference #:<\/strong> Extension Officer: Conservation Champion Programme1#
\nContract Type:<\/strong> Contract 24 Months<\/p>\n
\nThe WWF Junior Extension Officer will work closely with and report to the Senior Extension officer, with key performance indicators related to the following activities:<\/p>\n
\n\u2022Effective planning of the annual farm visit schedule to ensure that all 50+ farms are visited at least once a year.
\n\u2022During farm visit, complete the environmental assessment in collaboration with the representative from the farm which focusses on providing sound advice on the effective mitigation of any environmental risks, updating the biodiversity management plans, tracking progress against previous annual targets, and supporting the proactive conservation efforts of the farm \u2013 thereby ensuring that the WWF Conservation Champion criteria are maintained.
\n\u2022Negotiate and conclude the signing of WWF Landowner Conservation Agreements with all WWF Conservation Champion farms as well as identified priority stewardship properties falling within WWF stewardship focus areas.
\n\u2022Maintain positive relationships with key staff members\/landowners and update team internally to ensure effective communication across various levels of engagement.
\n\u2022Support the integration of WWF Freshwater stewardship activities through alignment with existing standards (Global Gap, SIZA, Alliance for Water Stewardship, IPW and SIZA) on shared project objectives.
\n\u2022Support the team with research & technical input where required to ensure biodiversity criteria of industry standards & technical resources remain relevant and updated.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022Undertake Monitoring and Evaluation and Learning (MEL) processes, including GIS spatial analysis of areas under agriculture and conservation, to track improved management over time;
\n\u2022Updating the GIS database and data management to ensure standardised map development for the Conservation Champion Management Plans per farm;
\n\u2022All aspects of project administration (updated membership information, contact details, conservation stories, annual review of management plans)<\/p>\n
\n\u2022Professional communication and presentation skills to represent the team at meetings and on platforms with targeted partner organisations (such as Landcare, CapeNature, Conservation at Work, various regional Conservancies) and\/or broader fruit & wine industry bodies (such as WOSA, IPW, SIZA, Hortgro etc.)
\n\u2022Coordination, planning and support in hosting technical training workshops both virtually and in-person.
\n\u2022Support the Senior Extension officer and Programme manager by providing input into fundraising and reporting to key funders and partners.
\n\u2022Support in content development for WWF Conservation Champion sub-brand in marketing, communication and media liaison
\nRequirements
\n\u2022A minimum of a Bachelor level qualification in conservation ecology, agricultural science, natural resources management, environmental management, or relevant field (e.g. economics, land use planning, viticulture, GIS expertise); and at least five years\u2019 work.
\n\u2022Knowledge & experience of viticulture processes and wine industry networks with a working understanding of the different wine value chain processes \u2013 from vine to bottle \u2013 as well as market requirements such as relevant audits and certification schemes.
\n\u2022A demonstrated understanding of, and experience in engagement with, the various wine industry associations and certification schemes (IPW, WIETA, WOSA, SALBA).
\n\u2022Working knowledge & experience of the different Conservation Stewardship models & relevant partners in the landscape.
\n\u2022The successful candidate must be skilled in communications (written and verbal) with strong report writing skills.
\n\u2022Self-motivated, with strong analytical, administrative and project management skills.
\n\u2022Passion for the conservation of nature and the involvement of people and businesses in the implementation of practical solutions to the challenges facing the environment.
\n\u2022Collaborative spirit and ability to work in team settings across cultures and internally within a diverse institution.
\n\u2022Computer literacy in MS Office (MS Word), spread sheets (Excel), email and presentations (MS PowerPoint).
\n\u2022 Ability to converse in both English and Afrikaans.
\n\u2022Valid driver\u2019s license and own transportation essential.<\/p>\n