MSc Degree or equivalent qualification in Geohydrology/Hydrogeology/Earth Science. Six (6) years of post-qualification natural sciences experience required. Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist.
The disclosure of a valid unexpired driver’s license. Experience in groundwater exploration, monitoring, assessment and sustainable resource management. Experience in water resource management. Scientific methodologies and models. Research and development. Scientific presentation. Analysis and management of groundwater data.
Business processes to ensure data flow. Professional judgement. Scientific mentoring. Strategic capability and Leadership. Financial Management. Change Management. Problem solving and analysis. Knowledge management. People Management and Empowerment. Client Orientation and Customer Focus. Excellent communication, report-writing and presentation. Conflict management. Accountability and ethical conduct.
Knowledge of the National Water Act and related water-sector legislation. Experience in scientific research, project management, stakeholder engagement, technical report writing and the management of professional scientific personnel. Knowledge of GIS and groundwater-modelling tools such as MODFLOW will be an added advantage. Accountability and ethical conduct.
Duties
Manage and provide strategic leadership for geohydrological services. Plan, coordinate and oversee groundwater-resource monitoring, assessment and information management programmes.
Provide specialist geohydrological advice to management, municipalities, water-sector institutions and other stakeholders. Oversee groundwater-quality and groundwater-level monitoring programmes. Manage groundwater data, modelling and dissemination of scientific information. Lead scientific research and promote the application of innovative groundwater management approaches. Provide input on groundwater projects, budgets and procurement processes. Manage staff performance and development. Mentor candidate scientists and facilitate scientific skills transfer.
Represent the department in technical committees, stakeholder forums and intergovernmental structures. Ensure compliance with applicable legislation, policies, professional standards and scientific codes of practice. Develop and implement geohydrological methodologies, policies, strategies, procedures and technical standards. Review and approve scientific reports, groundwater studies, models and technical recommendations.
Ensure the development and implementation of policies, systems, and procedures. Review and recommend/approve scientific projects; facilitate the setting of scientific standards, specifications, and service levels according to organizational objectives to ensure optimum operational service. Monitor scientific efficiencies according to organizational goals; and facilitate the compilation of innovation proposals to optimize limited resources in achieving increased levels of compliance within industry.
Interested in this role?
You'll apply on Department of Water and Sanitation's own site before 30 October 2026. Put your most relevant experience at the top of your CV first.