Coordinator: Research, Development and Monitoring (RDM)

SUMMARY:
Location:  Gqeberha, EC
Type of Employment:  Full- time, 12-month Fixed Term Contract
Sector:  Non-profit - Conservation (Blue/ Ocean Economy)

Sustainable Seas Trust (SST) is a science-based non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting Africa's seas and uplifting coastal communities. SST's work contributes to six UN Sustainable Development Goals, spanning quality education, sustainable economic growth, ocean conservation, and partnerships for development.

SST seeks an RDM Coordinator to provide operational coordination and implementation support for approved research, monitoring, and learning activities across the Marine and Coastal Impact Programmes. Reporting directly to the RDM Manager, this role is responsible for coordinating fieldwork, data collection, research logistics, and documentation, ensuring all activities are delivered efficiently and in line with SST's approved methodologies and ethical standards.

Key responsibilities:

• Coordinate logistics for research fieldwork, monitoring activities, sampling campaigns, and data collection exercises
• Maintain accurate field datasheets, sampling logs, metadata, and follow-up actions
• Support data collection, collation, cleaning, and documentation for qualitative and quantitative research activities
• Maintain and update research and monitoring databases and trackers in line with approved data management protocols
• Support operational coordination with research partners, service providers, laboratories, and field teams
• Provide operational reporting inputs and supporting documentation for programme MEL requirements
• Maintain and update operational expenditure trackers and submit supporting documentation for management approval
• Identify and escalate operational research risks, data gaps, and implementation issues to the RDM Manager

• Master's degree in an environmental science discipline — this is a prerequisite
• 3–5 years' experience in project coordination and qualitative and quantitative research and analysis, preferably within the NGO or sustainability sectors
• Proven research and writing track record, including professional reports and publications
• Demonstrated experience in project planning, implementation, and tracking
• Understanding of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) processes and digital tools including Excel
• Competence in budget tracking, procurement coordination, and resource allocation
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and familiarity with project management tools
• Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel regularly within South Africa
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; an additional African language is advantageous

• On-site, Gqeberha — relocation required; remote work is not available
• 12-month fixed-term contract, renewable to February 2028 subject to performance and funding
• Performance-based bonus and enhanced leave policy included in CTC

POSITION INFO:
Coordinator: Research, Development and Monitoring (RDM)