Senior Technical Officer- Cartography

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Logistical Operations

• Develops and coordinates logistical plans to support the implementation of multiple advanced scientific projects / research environment in line with procedures and standards.
• Monitor productivity and submit performance / progress reports on logistics.
• Coordinates data generation on site (sample collection, sample sorting, sample packaging and storage).
• Designs, coordinates and administer scientific databases in line with procedures and standards.
• Conducts advanced sample and data analyses.
• Resolves complex problems in a variety of logistical fields.

Research and Development

• Collate research data according to set requirements across more than one project and conduct error checking.
• Provides advanced technical services for research projects within or across departmental contexts.
• Perform data transformations, classifications, attribute data cleaning, working with database files.
• Integrate all data and information obtained to interpret the disposition and interrelation of coherent scientific research in line with the objectives of the project.
• Perform technical scientific analyses.
• Preparation of data.
• Practice routine guided interpretations.
• Provide logistical contributions to conceptualisation of research projects.
• Contributes towards knowledge preservation through best practice (in databases, map applications, systems and methodologies).
• Produce advanced technical reports.

Project Implementation/ Project Management

• Scope and plan projects.
• Interact with scientists and advises on the arrangement for data acquisition and management of data in project delivery.
• Report progress and technical problems to project teams.
• Implement and work according to standard operating procedures.
• Plan and undertake corrective and preventive actions to maintain quality standards.
• Identify gaps in Standard Operating Procedures and develop appropriate interventions.
• Perform technical functions and tasks that require interpretation.
• Effectively apply operational standards and consolidate methodologies, policies, systems and procedures.
• Advice on technical data and information processing.
• Maintains a safe production environment.
• Validate material and data submissions to ensure completeness and accuracy before data entry.
• Manage and administer scientific databases independently.
• Analyses and resolve technical problems independently.
• Provide technical guidance to assistant and technical officers.
• Assist and manage logistical support and setting up of field support/base camps during field work.

Stakeholder Relations and Reporting

• Maintain working relations with internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide technical/scientific data, information to internal and external stakeholders.

Quality Assurance 

• Develops and implements operating manuals for work procedures in line with ISO standards.
• Develop manuals and procedures for database administration, data management and subsequent analysis.

KEY PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Ability to work in remote areas.
• Presentation and facilitation skills.
• Communication skills (Oral and Written).
• Negotiation skills.
• Customer orientation.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Must be physically fit e.g., ability to handle heavy equipment and machinery.
• Adherence to operation procedures as advised by the CGS and the client.
• Flexibility towards changes in priorities as determined by the supervisor/ project manager.
• Must have good self-discipline.

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Grade 12; and
• National Diploma in Cartography (NQF Level 6) or equivalent qualification plus 5 years of experience, or,
• B Degree in GIS or equivalent qualification plus 3 years relevant experience.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Registration with relevant Professional Body will be an added advantage
• Understanding of GIS methodologies and models
• Knowledge of the interaction and relationships between this GIS software and databases
• Demonstrates proficiency as a competent end user of various cartographic tools/systems
• Exposure in the application of Geographical Information System (GIS)
• Knowledge of GIS software and familiarity with relational database design
• Strategic project matters/Reporting.
• Reporting, operational matters and guidance.

The Council for Geoscience is committed to Employment Equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity prescripts, preference will be given but not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups. Females and people from previously disadvantaged groups and sectors are encouraged to apply.

Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not been contacted within eight (8) weeks after the closing date of this advertisement, please consider your application unsuccessful.

All appointments are subject to positive vetting results.

The processing of your personal information by the Council for Geoscience will be done in accordance with the POPI Act 4 of 2013.

For enquiries, please contact us at recruitment@geoscience.org.za. Please note: Applications submitted to this email address and CGS social media platforms will not be considered.

Closing Date: 05 December 2025