The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has announced several employment opportunities for qualified and experienced candidates across different fields within the forestry, fisheries, administration, logistics, and environmental sectors. The department continues to promote equal opportunity and affirmative action in line with government employment equity objectives.
Applicants from underrepresented designated groups, including persons with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. The department aims to strengthen service delivery while creating opportunities for skilled professionals who can contribute to sustainable environmental management, forestry development, fisheries research, and public sector administration.
Important Application Requirements
Candidates must submit applications using the new signed Z83 application form obtainable from any Public Service Department. Applications must be accompanied by a detailed and updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) only. For online applications, all documents must be combined into one PDF attachment containing:
- Signed Z83 form
- Detailed CV
Applicants must clearly indicate the correct post title and reference number in the email subject line. Applications submitted as JPEG images or screenshots will not be accepted. Shortlisted candidates will later be required to submit certified copies of:
- Qualifications
- Senior Certificate
- South African ID
- Driver’s License (where applicable)
Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). The department also noted that shortlisted candidates will undergo:
- Security vetting
- Criminal record checks
- Qualification verification
- Citizenship verification
- Reference checks
- Credit checks where necessary
Candidates applying for Senior Management Service (SMS) positions must complete the National School of Government (NSG) SMS Pre-Entry Programme before appointment.
Available Vacancies
Deputy Director: Forest Based Enterprises – Ref No: FOM40/2026
This position is based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, with an annual salary package of R1 101 468. The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting forestry small growers, forestry SMMEs, timber production enterprises, and community forestry initiatives. Duties include facilitating access to funding, markets, forestry certification, and implementing forestry development programmes. Applicants must possess:
- National Diploma (NQF6) in Forestry or related qualification
- Minimum of five years’ relevant experience
- Three years at Assistant Director level or equivalent
- Knowledge of forestry legislation and environmental management
- Stakeholder engagement and leadership skills
- Valid driver’s license
Applications can be emailed to:
FOM40-2026@dffe.gov.za
Deputy Director: Administration and Coordination Support – Ref No: CCAQ06/2026
This Pretoria-based opportunity offers a salary of R932 292 per annum.
The role focuses on strategic planning, administration, budgeting, reporting coordination, stakeholder management, and supporting the office of the Deputy Director-General. Requirements include:
- Degree or National Diploma in Public Administration or Management
- Minimum of three years’ managerial experience
- Knowledge of PFMA, PAJA, PAIA, and government administration
- Strong communication and organizational skills
Applications can be emailed to: CCAQ06-2026@dffe.gov.za
Deputy Director: Operations and Logistics – Ref No: OC08/2026
Based in Cape Town, this post offers a salary of R932 292 per annum. The successful candidate will coordinate logistics and operational support for South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) activities, including research voyages, cargo management, recruitment coordination, and operational planning for Antarctic research bases. Minimum requirements:
- National Diploma or Degree in Shipping & Logistics, Maritime Studies, or related qualification
- Five years’ relevant experience
- Three years at Assistant Director level or equivalent
- Knowledge of maritime logistics and customs procedures
- Strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills
Applications can be emailed to: OC08-2026@dffe.gov.za
Control Scientific Technician Grade A: Crustaceans – Ref No: FIM17/2026
This Cape Town-based scientific post offers a salary of R573 552 per annum. The role focuses on crustacean fisheries research, particularly the South Coast Rock Lobster and KZN crustacean trawl fisheries. Responsibilities include data analysis, scientific monitoring, field surveys, and research support. Requirements include:
- Diploma in Natural Science or relevant qualification
- SACNASP registration
- Six years’ post-qualification scientific experience
- Fisheries research experience
- Sea-going and fieldwork experience
- Valid South African driver’s license
Applications can be emailed to: FIM17-2026@dffe.gov.za
Senior Administrative Officer – Ref No: OC04/2026
This opportunity is available in Cape Town with a salary of R413 001 per annum. The successful applicant will provide administrative, procurement, financial, and logistical support services within the Oceans Economy programme. Requirements include:
- National Diploma in Public Management or Office Management
- Minimum of two years’ administrative experience
- Knowledge of procurement, BAS, LOGIS, and financial systems
- Strong computer and communication skills
Applications can be emailed to: C04-2026@dffe.gov.za
Closing Dates
Most applications close on 01 June 2026 at 16:00, while the Control Scientific Technician post closes on 15 June 2026 at 16:00. Late applications will not be considered.
Important Notice
The department also announced the withdrawal of the following previously advertised posts:
- Assistant Director: Forest Resource Protection (Western Cape) Ref No: FOM23/2026
- Assistant Director: Forest Resource Protection (Limpopo/Mpumalanga) Ref No: FOM24/2026
Applicants who previously applied for re-advertised positions are required to submit new applications.
