SCIENTIST SPECIALIST: SMALL PELAGIC FISH AND FISHERIES

Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

Reference number: FIM 24/2026
Salary: R1 570 212 per annum, (OSD)
Centre: Cape Town (Foretrust Building)
Province: Western Cape
Closing date: 21 September 2026
Circular: No 32 of 2026

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Requirements

PhD (NQF Level 10) in Science /Natural or relevant qualification within the related field as recognized by SAQA. A minimum of ten (10) years relevant scientific experience after BSc qualification and Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist. Theoretical and/or practical knowledge of fisheries and biological research activities. Small pelagic fish and fisheries resources and sustainable management thereof. Scientific methodologies and models. Scientific research and development. Data analysis and statistics with a strong quantitative focus. Marine biology, fish biology, aquatic vertebrate or invertebrate reproductive biology. Research and development. Knowledge of current states and trends in fisheries research and management (globally). Statistical analysis of data and statistical programming languages. Knowledge of legal compliance. Scientific presentation. Recognized level of expertise. Mentoring, Research and development. Programme and project management. Strategic capability and leadership. Planning, organising and execution. Financial management. Conflict management and People management. Ability to identify research gaps and develop an appropriate research programme. Ability to gather and analyse information. Ability to develop and apply policies. Ability to work under pressure and submit documents to local and international fora within required timeframes. Ability to work long hours voluntarily, under extreme pressure, individually and in a team. Good interpersonal relations skills. Ability to work with difficult persons and to resolve conflict. Ability and willingness to work at sea.

Duties

Perform scientific analysis and regulatory functions: lead, oversee, perform scientific functions and provide strategic research direction that results in knowledge accumulation, progress in scientific applications and technology, relating to small pelagic fish and fisheries. analysis of scientific data (statistical analysis and modelling) fisheries stock assessment on a broad range of fisheries resources; Apply Operational Management Procedures to generate information and scientific advice for sustainable fisheries management. Develop and implement methodologies, policies, systems and procedures: Identify gaps and develop appropriate interventions; Develop working relations with fisheries industry, small scale fisheries, all fisheries right holders. Research and development: Conduct basic and applied research on fisheries stock assessment and management procedures; Perform research/literature studies to improve expertise; Publish and present research findings. Provide scientific support and advice: Provide scientific data, information and advice when required; Develop scientific advice and documentation for sustainable fisheries management. Human capital development: Train, mentor and develop junior personnel on data-analysis related queries; Supervise scientific work and processes. Supervise scientific data archiving and retrieval as appropriate.

Where to send your application

All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/

Enquiries

Ms Zimasa Jika at 082 332 7943

Taken from Public Service Vacancy Circular 32 of 2026, published by the Department of Public Service and Administration on 4 September 2026. Open the PDF to check this post against the original. Last checked 9 September 2026.

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