JOBS AT DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT
SUMMARY OF JOB POSTS LISTED
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Announces 2026 Senior and Specialist Vacancies
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has opened applications for several senior management and specialist positions for 2026. These vacancies provide opportunities for experienced professionals in financial management, fisheries governance, environmental enforcement, and forest resource protection.
The department confirmed that applications will close on 25 May 2026 at 16:00 and encouraged suitably qualified individuals, including persons living with disabilities, to apply.
Available DFFE Vacancies for 2026
1. Deputy Director-General: Financial Management Services
- Reference Number: CFO22/2026
- Salary: R1 813 182 per annum
- Location: Pretoria
DFFE is seeking a highly experienced financial management executive with an NQF Level 8 qualification in Financial Management, Accounting Science, or a related discipline. Applicants must also have a minimum of eight years’ senior management experience.
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Financial systems and governance
- Budget and expenditure management
- Supply chain oversight
- Audit and compliance coordination
- Asset and logistics management
Applicants should demonstrate strong knowledge of PFMA regulations, corporate governance principles, and risk management practices.
2. Deputy Director-General: Fisheries Management
- Reference Number: FIM16/2026
- Salary: R1 813 182 per annum
- Location: Cape Town
This senior executive role focuses on advancing sustainable fisheries and aquaculture management in South Africa.
Candidates must possess an NQF Level 8 qualification in Environmental Sciences, Fisheries Sciences, Public Administration, Law, or a related field, together with extensive senior management experience.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing fisheries and aquaculture policies
- Managing marine living resources
- Leading marine research programmes
- Promoting sustainable growth within the fisheries sector
- Strengthening international and regional fisheries partnerships
The department is seeking strategic leaders with expertise in environmental governance and policy implementation.
3. Deputy Director: Strategic Regional Enforcement and Investigation Support
- Reference Number: RCSM04/2026
- Contract Duration: 2 Years
- Salary: R932 292 per annum
- Location: Limpopo Province and Mpumalanga
DFFE is recruiting experienced enforcement professionals to support anti-poaching and wildlife trafficking operations across integrated wildlife zones.
Minimum requirements include:
- A National Diploma in Policing, Forensic Investigation, Law, or Environmental Law
- At least five years of investigation or enforcement experience
- Knowledge of environmental legislation and wildlife crime procedures
Responsibilities include:
- Coordinating wildlife crime investigations
- Supporting prosecution processes
- Managing enforcement operations
- Engaging with stakeholders and wildlife crime forums
Candidates must be prepared to travel extensively and hold a valid driver’s licence.
4. Assistant Director: Forest Resource Protection (X2 Posts)
- Salary: R605 742 per annum
Locations and Reference Numbers:
- Western Cape – Ref No: FOM23/2026
- Limpopo / Mpumalanga – Ref No: FOM24/2026
Applicants must hold a National Diploma in Forestry, Environmental Management, Natural Science, or a related field, supported by at least three years of relevant experience.
The roles will focus on:
- Monitoring compliance with forest legislation
- Conducting environmental impact assessments
- Managing licensing for protected trees and forests
- Facilitating forestry stakeholder training
- Supporting forestry regulation enforcement
Knowledge of the National Forest Act and related environmental legislation will be advantageous.
Important Application Details
Applicants are required to submit:
- A signed Z83 application form
- A comprehensive CV
Certified supporting documents will only be requested from shortlisted candidates.
Depending on the post reference number, applications may be submitted via email or hand delivery.
Shortlisted candidates may also undergo:
- Security vetting
- Qualification verification
- Integrity assessments
- Technical exercises
- Competency assessments for SMS-level posts
DFFE Promotes Equity and Inclusion
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment reaffirmed its commitment to employment equity and encouraged applications from underrepresented groups and persons living with disabilities.
Professionals interested in environmental governance, sustainable resource management, financial leadership, and wildlife protection are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
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