Deputy Project Manager – KwaZulu-Natal

About Sayari Earth 

Sayari Earth is a technology- and impact-driven nature-based carbon removals project developer working globally. Our mission is simple yet urgent: we partner with people to sustain life on planet Earth. Through innovative science, community collaboration, and carbon finance, we support land stewards in restoring ecosystems, improving livelihoods, and mitigating climate change.

About the Role

Sayari Earth is seeking a committed and motivated Deputy Project Manager to support the planning, coordination, and delivery of nature-based carbon removal projects in KwaZulu-Natal. Working closely with the Project Manager, this role will help keep complex workstreams on track, coordinate partners and communities, and ensure high-quality implementation in line with organizational goals and compliance requirements.

This is an ideal opportunity for an emerging project professional who is ready to step up, learn fast, and grow into a senior project management role over time.

Key Responsibilities

Working under the guidance of the Project Manager, the Deputy Project Manager will:

• Support day-to-day project implementation, including planning, scheduling, and tracking progress.
• Assist with developing and maintaining project plans, workplans, budgets, and reporting frameworks.
• Coordinate meetings, workshops, and activities with cross-functional teams, external partners, and community stakeholders.
• Help ensure compliance with environmental regulations, policies, and carbon project standards by maintaining accurate documentation and follow-up.
• Monitor project milestones, risks, and deliverables, flagging issues early and supporting the Project Manager with problem-solving.
• Prepare project reports, presentations, and updates for internal teams and leadership.
• Support procurement processes, basic contract administration, and financial tracking related to project activities.
• Contribute to strong communication and collaboration across internal teams and external partners.

Skills and Expertise

• Project Coordination: Experience supporting complex projects, preferably involving multiple stakeholders and workstreams.
• Organization & Planning: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage timelines, track tasks, and follow through on actions.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage respectfully and clearly with colleagues, partners, and community stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving: Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with the ability to identify issues and propose practical next steps.
• Technical Skills: Competent in Microsoft Office (especially Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and comfortable working in cloud-based systems such as SharePoint or similar platforms.
• Sector Interest: Knowledge of, or strong interest in, environmental projects, conservation, rural development, or carbon markets is highly desirable.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Project Management, Environmental Science, Development Studies, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Project Management Certification (e.g., CAPM, PMP, PRINCE2) advantageous.
• Approximately 3–5 years’ experience in project coordination or management support, preferably in environmental, conservation, rural development, or carbon-related fields.
• Experience working with rural or community-based projects in South Africa is a strong advantage.
• Demonstrated experience in supporting budgets, contracts, or stakeholder engagement will be beneficial.

Why Join Us?

At Sayari Earth, you’ll be part of a passionate team driving innovative solutions to climate change. This is a chance to apply your skills in project management while making a meaningful impact on people, nature, and the planet.

How to Apply 

Send your CV and a brief cover letter to aloha@sayari.earth with the subject line: KZN Deputy Project Manager Application – [Your Name]. We warmly welcome applications from women and individuals who bring diverse perspectives and experiences.

We’re looking forward to hearing from innovative leaders ready to make a difference!