Wetland Scientist/Practitioner Intern

Wetland Scientist/Practitioner Intern (Paarl, Western Cape)Environmental Specialist Consulting Group (ESCG) (Pty) LtdLocation: Paarl, Western CapePosition type: Full-time, on-site internshipExperience: 0-2 yearsStart date: To be confirmedReports to: Wetland ScientistAbout the role:Environmental Specialist Consulting Group (ESCG) is seeking a motivated early-career Wetland Scientist/Practitioner Intern to join our team in Paarl. This position is designed for early-career individuals who are eager to develop technical and field-based skills under mentorship. The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience and support the assessment, classification, and delineation of wetlands and riparian systems across the Western Cape and beyond. This role combines field-based work under sometimes demanding conditions with desktop-based wetland assessments and geomorphic, hydrological, and ecological analysis.Key Responsibilities:Assist with wetland delineation and classification using national protocols (e.g., DWAF 2008; Job et al. 2018; Ollis et al. 2013).Support in-field data collection, including soil, vegetation, and hydrological indicators for wetland boundary identification.Gain exposure and contribute to Present Ecological State (PES), Ecosystem Services (WET-EcoServices), and Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS) assessments, including the application of the DWS Buffer Model.Conduct or assist with GIS mapping and spatial analysis to support wetland delineation, buffer zoning, and report visualisation.Process and analyse data from national databases (e.g., NFEPA), aerial imagery, orthophotos and other geospatial layers.Assist with field sampling of water and soils.Support and contribute to the preparation of wetland impact assessment reports aligned with NEMA (Act 107 of 1998) and the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998).Participate in mentorship sessions and training activities aimed at building practical skills in wetland geomorphology, hydrology, and ecology.Provide general project and fieldwork support, including logistics and data organisation.Minimum Requirements:BSc Honours degree (minimum) in Environmental Science, Soil Science, Ecology, Geography, or a related field.Eligibility or intent to register with SACNASP as a Candidate Natural Scientist (within one year).Up to 2 years of relevant experience or strong academic exposure to wetland ecosystem studies or environmental assessments, or work in related fields.Basic knowledge or exposure to wetland assessment and mapping methodologies (Wetland Classification, WET-Health, WET-EcoServices, EIS, DWAF 2008).Basic understanding or exposure to identifying and interpreting soil and vegetation as wetness indicators, including the identification of hydromorphic soil characteristics and the identification of wetland plants, in the field.Understanding of geomorphic, hydrological, and ecological linkages within wetland systems.Willingness to work in challenging field conditions, often in remote wetland environments.Competent with GPS, GIS software (QGIS) and Microsoft Office Suite.Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to field sites.Desirable Skills and Advantages:Completed recognised wetland short courses such as Introduction to Wetland Delineation and Assessment or Tools for Wetland Assessments.Working knowledge of wetland assessment and mapping methodologies (WET-Health, WET-EcoServices, EIS, DWAF 2008).Demonstrated interest in wetland science, hydrology, or ecological restoration through dissertations, field projects, experience or volunteer work.Strong written communication and data interpretation skillsWhat We Offer:Mentorship to develop technical and field-based skills.Hands-on exposure to multidisciplinary projects.Opportunities for professional development and guidance towards SACNASP registration.A collaborative and purpose-driven working environment aimed at conserving and rehabilitating wetlands through sustainable development.Exposure to field-based and desktop wetland assessment methods.How to Apply:Send your CV, academic transcript, and a short motivation letter (max 1 page) to nb@escg.co.za with the subject line: “Wetland Scientist Intern - [Your Name]” Application deadline: 10 December 2025.