JOBS AT DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT
SUMMARY OF JOB POSTS LISTED
DFFE Vacancies 2026: Government Jobs Open Across South Africa
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has officially announced a range of government job opportunities for 2026, with vacancies available in Mpumalanga, Pretoria, and Cape Town. The advertised positions span forestry development, administration, logistics, marine science, and office support, offering annual salary packages ranging from over R400,000 to more than R1.1 million.
These appointments form part of the department’s broader strategy to strengthen environmental governance, forestry enterprise development, and marine resource management across South Africa.
Forestry Enterprise Development Opportunity in Mpumalanga
Among the highest-paying positions currently available is the Deputy Director: Forest Based Enterprises role in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.
The department is seeking applicants who possess a National Diploma in Forestry or a related qualification, coupled with at least five years of relevant forestry sector experience. Managerial experience at Assistant Director level or equivalent is also required.
The successful candidate will oversee programmes aimed at supporting timber growers, forestry SMMEs, and community forestry initiatives. Key responsibilities include facilitating market access for small forestry enterprises, coordinating afforestation projects, and assisting with the implementation of the Forestry Masterplan.
The position offers an all-inclusive salary package of R1,101,468 per annum.
Administration and Coordination Support Vacancy in Pretoria
DFFE is also recruiting for the position of Deputy Director: Administration and Coordination Support based in Pretoria.
This role focuses on strategic planning, procurement administration, reporting coordination, and stakeholder management. Applicants must hold a qualification in Public Administration, Management, or a related field, together with at least three years of managerial-level experience.
The appointed candidate will manage budget administration, coordinate branch reporting processes, oversee strategic planning documentation, and provide operational support to the office of the Deputy Director-General.
The annual salary package for this role is R932,292.
Logistics and Maritime Operations Role in Cape Town
Another significant opportunity is available for a Deputy Director: Operations and Logistics in Cape Town.
This role is suited to professionals with qualifications or experience in shipping, logistics, maritime studies, or operations management. Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant industry experience, including managerial exposure.
Responsibilities include coordinating logistics for scientific expeditions and Antarctic research missions, managing cargo and warehouse operations, supporting expedition recruitment, developing operational policies, and collaborating on search-and-rescue activities linked to South Africa’s Antarctic and Southern Ocean programmes.
The post carries an annual salary package of R932,292.
Marine Science Vacancy in Cape Town
Marine science professionals are encouraged to apply for the Control Scientific Technician Grade A: Crustaceans position.
DFFE is looking for a qualified natural scientist with expertise in fisheries research, particularly involving South Coast Rock Lobster and KwaZulu-Natal crustacean trawl fisheries.
The successful applicant will contribute to fisheries monitoring, scientific surveys, data analysis, and research programme coordination. Registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) is mandatory.
The position offers an annual salary of R573,552.
Senior Administrative Officer Position
The department is also hiring a Senior Administrative Officer in Cape Town.
Applicants must possess a National Diploma in Public Management, Office Management, or a related discipline, together with at least two years of office administration experience.
Key responsibilities include procurement administration, travel coordination, budget monitoring, stakeholder meeting support, and inventory management within the Oceans Economy programme.
The annual salary for this position is R413,001.
Important Application Information
DFFE has reminded applicants that all applications must include a signed Z83 form together with a detailed CV submitted as a single PDF document. Applications submitted as photographs or incomplete files will not be considered.
Shortlisted candidates will undergo various screening processes, including qualification verification, criminal record checks, and integrity assessments.
Most vacancies close on 1 June 2026, while the Control Scientific Technician post closes on 15 June 2026. Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply before the closing dates to avoid disqualification.
In line with the department’s employment equity plan, preference may be given to candidates from underrepresented designated groups.
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