Security Officer

NatCarbon Africa is hiring a Security Officer for the Spekboom Restoration Project in Jansenville, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The role involves ensuring security at farm sites during planting operations, safeguarding personnel and equipment, and responding to security incidents. The position requires proactive monitoring during high-activity periods with up to 1,000 workers present, as well as weekend and holiday oversight to maintain a safe environment.
Security Officer, Spekboom Restoration Project
Department: Operations
Location: Jansenville, Eastern Cape, South Africa


Reports to: Security Manager
Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure that will revitalise landscapes, combat climate change, and promote sustainable agriculture?


Join NatCarbon Africa: a mission‑driven, proudly African organisation dedicated to high‑quality implementation of large‑scale carbon, climate, and biodiversity projects. We embrace the power of innovative technology to enhance project execution. Community engagement lies at the heart of our projects, driven by a genuine commitment to meaningful and inclusive participation and co‑benefits, such as biodiversity conservation and socioeconomic upliftment.


NatCarbon Africa seeks a Security Officer in the Operations Department for the large‑scale Spekboom Restoration Project in the Eastern and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa.


With our partner, Imperative Global, our aim is to restore up to 100,000 hectares of degraded subtropical thicket biome. The Project entails planting Spekboom (Portulacaria afra) on privately owned land to improve ecosystem functioning and agricultural productivity over time, promote biodiversity, improve soil filtration, enhance water storage capabilities, and reduce soil erosion. The Project is estimated to permanently store large quantities of Carbon Dioxide over the Project life, thus positively contributing towards climate change mitigation.


Position Summary:
The Security Officer, reporting to the Security Manager, will be responsible for providing comprehensive security services at farm sites in the rural Eastern Cape where spekboom planting, harvesting, and maintenance activities occur. This role involves safeguarding personnel, equipment, and project areas, particularly during high‑activity periods with up to 1,000 workers on‑site and during off‑hours, including weekends and holidays. The Security Officer will ensure a safe and secure environment, mitigate risks such as theft, vandalism, or unauthorised access, and support the project’s operational continuity. The position requires a vigilant, proactive individual with strong situational awareness and the ability to work effectively in a rural, community‑based setting.
Roles and Responsibilities:
Site Security During Planting Operations
Conduct security patrols and surveillance at farm sites during active planting periods, where up to 1,000 workers may be present, to prevent unauthorised access, theft, or vandalism.Monitor entry and exit points to ensure only authorised personnel, including workers, supervisors, and approved visitors, access the sites.Protect project assets, including fencing, cuttings, tools, and equipment, from theft or damage during high‑traffic operations.Respond promptly to security incidents, such as trespassing or disputes, using de‑escalation techniques and coordinating with the Security Manager for resolution.Ensure the safety of all personnel on‑site, including workers, community members, and project staff, by enforcing safety and security protocols.
Weekend and Holiday Site Monitoring
Perform regular patrols and inspections of farm sites during weekends, holidays, and off‑hours to secure unattended areas and prevent unauthorised activities.Monitor critical infrastructure, such as fencing and storage facilities, to detect and address vulnerabilities like breaches or tampering.Use security equipment, such as torches, radios, or basic surveillance tools, to maintain visibility and communication during low‑light or remote patrols.Document and report any suspicious activities, security breaches, or environmental hazards (e.g., damaged fencing) to the Security Manager promptly.Coordinate with local authorities or private security firms, as directed by the Security Manager, to address serious incidents during off‑hours.
Risk Mitigation and Incident Response
Conduct routine risk assessments to identify potential security threats, such as livestock intrusion, poaching, or community disputes, and recommend preventive measures.Assist in implementing security protocols, including access control measures, visitor logs, and worker identification processes, to maintain order during large‑scale planting activities.Respond to emergencies, such as medical incidents or conflicts, by providing first‑line support and alerting relevant authorities or project management.Maintain accurate incident logs and provide detailed reports to the Security Manager on all security‑related events, including near‑mises and resolved issues.
Community Engagement and Collaboration
Build positive relationships with local communities to foster trust and cooperation, ensuring security mea