Scientist: Integrated Water Resources Management

Description

Zutari: Co-creating an engineered impact.

Zutari is a well-established, management-owned engineering and infrastructure advisory firm with over 90 years of experience. As human-centred engineering consultants and advisors, we are trusted by our clients, business partners, communities and other stakeholders across Africa and the Middle East. We co-create engineering solutions that have a positive impact and improve people’s lives. Zutari values inclusion and recognises the importance of a diverse, talented workforce, believing that people need other people to succeed.

What kind of talent do we pursue?

We employ people with the right attitude and a positive mindset, who are motivated by doing the right thing, getting things done and share a sense of urgency. People who have an impact in our teams and broader community. People who think differently and connect with those around them to co-create new opportunities and leave a meaningful legacy.

We seek employees who:

• Bring a positive, solutions-oriented attitude and a passion for impact
• Think creatively and collaborate effectively across disciplines
• Co-create innovative, lasting solutions in water resource management
• Thrive in a fast-paced, results-driven environment
• Are eager to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities
  
  
  

Job Purpose

We are inviting a passionate Environmental or Social Scientist to join our Water Resources Management team based in Cape Town. In this role, you will collaborate with a dynamic group of engineers, hydrologists, and scientists to support the delivery of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) projects across Africa and the Middle East.

Role Responsibilities

• Support integrated water resources management and development planning initiatives, including catchment management and basin planning.
• Evaluate climate risks and vulnerabilities impacting infrastructure, ecosystems, and livelihoods using remote sensing, GIS, and other digital tools.
• Contribute to long-term strategic planning, focused on water resilience and sustainable development.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists, economists, policymakers, and stakeholders across Africa and the Middle East.
• Facilitate workshops, meetings, and capacity-building events with clients.
• Data collection and analysis, preparation of detailed technical reports, scientific publications, and policy briefs to disseminate findings and influence decision-making.
• Support business development, project management, and preparation of proposal.
  
  
  

Minimum Requirements

• Master’s degree in environmental sciences, hydrology, climate sciences, natural resource management or related fields.
• 2–5 years of relevant post-graduate experience in IWRM or related disciplines.
• Strategic thinking, analytical, and research skills across natural and social sciences.
• Proficiency in the use of remote sensing data and GIS tools.
• Strong analytical skills, including advanced Excel skills and using a programming language for statistical computing and data visualisation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience of engaging with diverse stakeholders including workshop facilitation and communication.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary and international teams.
• Strong time management skills and ability to work efficiently under pressure.
• Willingness to travel in Africa and the Middle East.
• Knowledge of Portuguese and/or French is an advantage.
• Knowledge of climate or hydrological tools is advantageous.
  
  
  

We believe that a diverse workforce is key to our business success. We seek the best people for our jobs based on their skills, qualifications, and experience. We embrace the principle of equal opportunity in employment, and we work towards eliminating all forms of unlawful discrimination in our employment practices. In support of diversity and the equal opportunity principle, preference will be given to individuals from designated groups within South Africa.