Environmental Engineer

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for more info about this career

Geohydrologists work in the field collecting samples for analysing or validating information. They are crucial to the safekeeping of water by testing and evaluating dangerous sites that could potentially pollute drinking water.

Geohydrologists form their opinons on how to manage water resources by studying the supply of public water and the events such as floods or droughts and wastewater runoff

Those wishing to become involved in geohydrology should have a background in earth sciences and their applied techniques to analyze samples and record relevant data.

A knowledge of Geography terms is beneficial to geohydrolgists as this will assist with accurately recording and describing the varying environmental features that are involved in water resource management.

OFO No:

What is a Field Guide?

In South Africa, FIELD GUIDE and GAME RANGER are sometimes the same job. They do, however, have different job descriptions.

The Field Guide: 

A Field Guide talks and works with guests. They are responsible for providing guided tours, in the parks or game reserves – on foot or in 4×4 vehicles.  On many reserves, the Field Guide assists the Game Ranger.

The Game Ranger:

A Game Ranger is responsible for the management of the game reserve.  They work with ecologists, game reserve and wildlife managers.  They manage animal populations and check for diseases.  They are in charge of road maintenance, fencing, water, erosion control, alien plant control, etc etc.

What does a Field Guide do?

• helps the game ranger
• takes guests on walking-tours into the ‘bush’
• takes guests on safari in a 4×4 vehicle
• shares interesting facts about the animals with their guests
• spoor spots and tracks
• makes sure guests are safe at all times
• always prepared for a dangerous wild-life encounter

Are you . . . ?

• passionate about nature and wild animals?
• a person who can live in remote places?
• a person with good communication skills?
• fit and healthy?
• observant?
• calm under pressure?
• a person with an upbeat, positive attitude?
• willing to do physical, hard work, like mend a fence?

How do I become a Field Guide?

All Field Guides in South Africa must obtain FGASA (Field Guides Association of South Africa) approved certification.  There are many colleges that one can obtain this. 

Check the FGASA website for more details.  Kruger National Park, through Pathfinders, also offers a FGASA-recognised Field Guide.

• FGASA:  (Field Guides Association of South Africa) www.fgasa.co.za

Minimum requirements:  Be able to read.

School subjects:  No special subjects are required but nature subjects like biology would help you a lot.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Game Ranger … or … Ecologist

Is becoming a Field Guide the right career choice for me?

What is an Ecologist?

An Ecologist is a biologist who studies the interaction between living things, including people, and their environment. 

There are many areas of ecology.  For example: animal behaviour, population biology, conservation biology and marine ecology.

What does an Ecologist do?

• collects data and samples out in the related field
• undertakes environmental studies
• does laboratory studies and tests of animals and plants
• reads and analyses research by other ecologists
• collates information and statistics
• predicts changes in the environment based on their data
• keeps up to date with current studies and trends
• speaks at conferences, seminars and other events
• consults to local companies and/or governments
• writes papers and reports

Are you . . . ?

• interested in the environment?
• a person who loves science?
• inquisitive?
• technical?
• a person who loves research?
• self-motivated?
• analytical and logical?
• methodical?
• observant?
• a great communicator – both written and spoken?

How do I become an Ecologist?

Many Ecologists begin their study career by completing a Bachelors of Science (BSc) degree first before specialising in a specific field of Ecology.  A BSc can be done at most universities in South Africa. 

Here is a list of some universities that specifically offer degrees in Ecology:

• UNIVERSITY OF STELLENBOSCH

Offers a BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology or an extended programme for this degree.  This programme can lead to postgraduate studies in botany, zoology and/or genetics.  

Minimum requirements:
A selection mark (SM) of at least 65% and meet the requirements for Mathematics and Physical Sciences as laid down for the programme of your choice.

• UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE

Offers a 4 year B.A. Human Ecology degree and a B.A. Human Ecology (Education/FET) degree. The University of the Western Cape is the only university in South Africa that offers this degree currently.

Minimum requirements:
A Matriculation Exemption Certificate with 40% on the Higher Grade or 50% on the Standard Grade in one of the following subjects: Biology, Physical Science, Mathematics or Physiology.

• CLICK HERE to find a training institution near you.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Park Ranger or Zoo Keeper

Is becoming an Ecologist the right career choice for me?

3 March 2015 – Posted on Facebook

What is a Wind-Energy Developer?

The world’s population is constantly expanding and the demand for energy is high in order for homes, businesses, cities, towns and industries to function.

Coal and nuclear energy have been used for many years, but due to the strain they put on the earth’s natural resources, the health risks and their polluting aspects, they aren’t suitable forms of energy generation for the future. There is, therefore, a great need to create new ways of generating energy that is both sustainable and ‘green’.

Creating ‘green’ energy is a very important for Wind Energy Developers. They are responsible for developing, managing and directing internal and external wind resources to develop green wind farm projects.

What does a Wind-Energy Developer do?

• analysing weather patterns, reports and other data
• looking for prospective wind farm sites
• developing and maintaining a budget
• liaising with consultants, land owners and local communities
• developing large-scale sites within the laws that govern it?
• acquiring necessary permits

Are you . . . ?

• interested in protecting the environment?
• interested in renewable energy?
• scientific?
• hands on?
• hard-working?

How do I become a Wind-Energy Developer?

• DEGREE:

A Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Renewable Energy is offered at most universities around South Africa.
4-10 years of work experience – preferably in power generation, environmental, or related field is recommended. 

Postgraduate course:  http://www.crses.sun.ac.za/ 

Wind Energy Development in Africa: 

Africa has the potential for large-scale wind energy developments.

Africa has a coastline of more than 30,000km and has ideal weather conditions suitable for harnessing wind energy. Unlike the densely populated regions of Europe, Africa also has large, open land areas on which to develop wind farms.

Africa is also an important market for small turbine manufacturers. Close to 80% of our continent’s population are not yet connected to electricity.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Wind Analyst or Solar Installer

Is becoming a Wind-Energy Developer the right career choice for me?

28.01.2015 Posted on Facebook

A Zoo Keeper is responsible for the care and maintenance of captive animals and their cages. 

Safety of both the animals and visitors to the zoo is the top priority.  The security of cages is therefore very important.

What does a Zoo Keeper do?

• managing and/or cleaning of cages and food areas
• making sure diets of each animal are followed
• making and preparing food
• maintaining detailed records of animals
• watching the animals
• giving medical treatments under veterinary supervision
• helping with animal capture
• managing staff
• communicating well with the public
• communicating well with the press and media
• being required to work a shift schedule

Are you . . . ?

• a person who loves and cares for animals?
• organised?
• gentle?
• able to keep detailed notes?
• able to talk with the public?
• willing to deal with the press?
• confident?
• willing to work unusual hours if an animal is sick?

How do I become a Zoo Keeper?

Zoo Keeping qualifications and experience varies between zoos/organisations. 

Job seekers are usually expected to hold a current, valid drivers license.

The most important skill to becoming a Zoo Keeper is experience in an animal-related area. 

Experience can be gained in various positions. 

To begin with – a voluntary position (sometimes a paid job) in a smaller, private zoo, an aquarium and private park, veterinary clinic, farms, kennels, cattery, animal shelter, horse stables, pet shops etc can get you some experience.

A few ways in which you may be able to gain the necessary qualifications for a career as a Zoo Keeper include:

Those considering a Veterinary or Zoology Degree will be more qualified for the job.

• UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA

BVSc (Bachelor of Veterinary Science)

http://web.up.ac.za/default.asp?ipkCategoryID=1160&language=0

Minimum requirements:  Compulsory Grade 12 requirements

Compulsory school subjects:  English, Physical Science, Mathematics and a 2nd Language

For a degree in Zoology:  Most universities require a National Senior Certificate meeting degree entry.

School subjects:  Mathematics as well as Physical Science and Biology (on the higher grade) are highly recommended for zoologists

The specific requirements can vary from university to university. 

Visit the Career Planet Training Institutions page to locate a University of your choice. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Animal Behaviourist or Animal Health Technician

Is becoming a Zoo Keeper the right career choice for me?

See below for more info.

Park Rangers teach people to respect nature.  They are employed by the government (national parks) or private game farms.  Park Rangers work throughout the country protecting the natural environment for future generations. They enforce park rules and regulations, prevent forest fires and see that visitors behave right. 

Park Rangers are good campers with a lot of knowledge about plants and wildlife. The also control the number of visitors, provide information regarding park use and areas of interest, issue fire permits, and collect fees.

What does a Park Ranger do?

• protecting the natural environment for future generations
• carrying guns because of poachers
• making sure the park laws are obeyed
• protecting people – they may rescue a fallen rock climber or chasing away a wild animal that is scaring campers
• maintaining all equipment, camping sites and mend any vandalised areas
• dealing with emergencies
• teaching campers how to use camping equipment
• taking visitors on nature walks
• setting up exhibits
• lecturing on historic and other interesting nature topics
• handling budgets, making and setting new rules
• managing staff
  helping to train new rangers

Are you . . . ?

• a person who loves the outdoors?
• a person who loves nature?
• a people’s person?
• a person who can live in remote places?
• self motivated and confident?
• organised?
• mechanically-minded?
• practical?
• fit and healthy?

How do I become a Park Ranger?

In South Africa, you can start your Park Ranger career as a trainee junior Park Ranger with SANPARKS.  They will train you on the job. 

Extra courses in nature sciences would be recommended.

Recommended school subjects:  Biology, Geography.  Literacy skills an added advantage.

• AFRTS: AFRICAN FIELD RANGERS TRAINING SERVICES

Offer ourses in field ranging
Field Ranger Selection Course (14 days)
Conservation guardianship. (6 weeks)

http://www.afrts.co.za/training.html

It does not look like any special minimum requirements are necessary to do these courses.  A love of nature would be recommended.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Zoo Keeper or Amusement Centre Manager

Is becoming a Park Ranger the right career choice for me?

See below for more info.

This should preferably be done in an economically viable way, so that they make a profit.  They may organise various activities, such as nature walks and field trips for schools. 

They are in charge of educating the public, training their staff;  building and maintaining walkways, fences, trails and other structures;  organising science and ecology exhibitions and performing the necessary administrative duties.  Because conservation is so expensive, parks administrators have to find additional ways to raise money. 

The educational aspect of their work therefore also includes a lot of marketing and close liaison with the printed press in order to get the maximum media coverage (e.g. announcing events such as the birth of a new bay elephant). 

Nature conservation is very important, not only for the environment, but also for the survival of mankind.

Game Parks and National Parks are the employees of this profession.  It is important to spend some time working in the environment in order to secure permanent employment with Nature Conservation Parks.