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JOBS AT DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

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SUMMARY OF JOB POSTS LISTED

 

DFFE Opens Applications for Assistant Director: Forest Resource Protection Posts in 2026

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has announced the opening of applications for two Assistant Director: Forest Resource Protection positions for the 2026 recruitment cycle. The vacancies are available in the Western Cape, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga regions and provide an attractive government salary package for qualified professionals in forestry and environmental management.

These positions present an excellent opportunity for individuals with expertise in forestry legislation, environmental compliance, natural resource protection, and conservation management to contribute to South Africa’s environmental sustainability efforts.

Position Details

  • Position: Assistant Director: Forest Resource Protection (X2 Posts)
  • Department: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
  • Salary: R605 742 per annum
  • Closing Date: 15 June 2026 at 16:00

Reference Numbers:

  • Western Cape – FOM23/2026
  • Limpopo / Mpumalanga – FOM24/2026

The department confirmed that these are re-advertised vacancies, and all interested applicants, including previous applicants, are required to submit new applications.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • A National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Forestry, Natural Science, Environmental Management, or a SAQA-recognised related qualification.
  • A minimum of three years’ relevant experience in forestry or environmental management.
  • A valid driver’s license.
  • Willingness to travel extensively and work beyond normal office hours when necessary.

Candidates should also possess sound knowledge of:

  • The National Forest Act, 1998
  • The National Veld and Forest Fire Act
  • Environmental legislation related to forestry
  • Public Finance Management Act (PFMA)
  • Forestry compliance and natural resource regulation systems

Strong leadership, communication, supervisory, negotiation, and conflict-management skills will serve as added advantages.

Key Responsibilities

Successful candidates will be responsible for supporting the protection and sustainable management of South Africa’s forest resources.

Core responsibilities include:

  • Implementing and monitoring forestry legislation and fire management policies.
  • Reviewing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) affecting forests and protected trees.
  • Promoting compliance with forestry and fire protection legislation.
  • Assisting with legal and regulatory processes relating to forestry management.
  • Conducting training sessions for stakeholders, including SAPS officials, prosecutors, magistrates, and government institutions.
  • Managing protected tree licensing databases and forestry compliance systems.
  • Supporting Fire Protection Associations and landowners with veld and forest fire compliance measures.

The role further involves stakeholder engagement, technical advisory support, and capacity-building initiatives within the forestry sector.

Application Process

Applicants are required to submit:

Applications must be submitted via email as a single PDF attachment to the relevant address below:

The department noted that applications submitted in JPEG or image format will not be accepted.

Important Information

Shortlisted applicants will undergo:

  • Practical assessments
  • Integrity and ethical conduct evaluations
  • Qualification verification
  • Criminal and security clearance checks
  • Employment and reference verification

DFFE encourages applications from persons with disabilities and individuals from underrepresented designated groups.

Candidates applying for senior management positions will also be required to complete the National School of Government’s SMS Pre-Entry Programme before appointment.

Career Opportunity in Environmental Protection

Forestry protection continues to play a vital role in South Africa’s environmental sustainability and wildfire prevention strategies. These DFFE positions provide skilled professionals with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to conservation efforts while pursuing a stable and rewarding public-sector career.

Qualified candidates with experience in forestry compliance, environmental management, or conservation regulation are encouraged to apply before the closing date.

Source information obtained from the official government vacancy circular.

 

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