Vacancies Available at Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

This page aims to provide information on vacancies available at and advertised by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). Information includes application procedures and relevant application forms and documents.

The DFFE is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. The department intends to promote representativity (race, gender, and disability) through the filling of these posts. Candidates whose appointment, promotion, or transfer will promote representativity, will receive preference.

Procedures and information to apply

In cases where procedures and information to apply (instructions) within the PDF advert show slight differences from the ones outlined below. Note that the instructions within the PDF advert supersede the ones outlined below, and therefore, instructions within the PDF advert should be followed and applied diligently.

All applications must be submitted on a signed new Z83 application form (click bold underlined text to download form) accompanied by a recent detailed curriculum vitae to be considered.
- Please note that should you not use the newly amended Z83 and complete, initial, and sign in full, the department reserves the right to disqualify your application.
Pretoria center applications may be forwarded to:
- The Director-General, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Private Bag X447, Pretoria, 0001 or
- Hand-delivered Environment House, Erf 1563 Arcadia Extension 6, Cnr Soutpansberg and Steve Biko Road, Arcadia, Pretoria. Marked for the attention: Human Resources Management.
- Orit it can be emailed to the respective email address quoting the reference number on the subject email.
Cape Town, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, North West, and Western Cape centers applications may be forwarded to:
- The Director-General, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Private Bag X4390, Cape Town 8000 or
- Hand-delivered to 14th Loop Street, Cape Town.
- Or it can be emailed to the respective email address quoting the reference number on the subject email.
It is the applicant’s responsibility to have foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). Correspondence will be limited to successful candidates only.
The National Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment is not an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the department’s equity plan. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Correspondence will be limited to successful candidates only.
Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment, including but not limited to: criminal records; citizenship status; creditworthiness; previous employment (reference checks);, and qualification verification.
Short-listed candidates will be expected to avail themselves at the department’s convenience.
Entry-level requirements for senior management service (SMS) posts:
- In terms of the Directive on Compulsory Capacity Development, Mandatory Training Days, and Minimum Entry Requirements for SMS that was introduced on 1 April 2015, a requirement for all applicants for SMS posts from 1 April 2020 is a successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-Entry Programme as endorsed by the National School of Government (NSG) prbeforeppointment. The course is available at the NSG under the name Certificate for entry into SMS a, and the full details can be obtained by following the below link:https://www.thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre-entryprogramme/
- Furthermore, shortlisted candidates must provide proof of successful completion of the course.
All candidates shortlisted for the posts for the SMS post will be subjected to a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical elements of the job.
- Following the interview and the technical exercise, the selection panel will recommend candidates to attend a generic managerial competency assessment in compliance with the DPSA directive on the implementation of competency-based assessments.
The person appointed to this position will be subjected to a security clearance, the signing of a performance agreement, and an employment contract.
The department reserves the right not to make an appointment.
If you have not been contacted within three (03) months after the closing date of the advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

Chief Director: Sector Compliance (RSCM03/2025)

Salary: Remuneration package of R1 436 022 per annum (all-inclusive salary package).
Centre(s): Pretoria

Requirements:
An undergraduate qualification in Law, Environmental Law, Natural Science, or relevant qualification on (NQF7) within the related field as recognized by SAQA. At least five (5) years. Successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-entry Programme as endorsed by the National
School of Government (NSG). Experience in the compliance and monitoring sector. Knowing environmental Management, Environmental Management authorization support, Environmental Impact Assessment regulations, Environmental management systems, and Understanding Environmental Management issues concerning authorizations and applicable legal requirements and processes. Understanding of government standard administrative procedures, Knowledge of business planning and budgeting methodologies, Understanding of HR practices and procedures, Financial and Procurement administrative procedures (PFMA & Treasury Regulations). Research and analytics skills. Proven Leadership and Management, Coordination skills, Organisational and planning, Communication skills (written and spoken), Relationship Management, Stakeholder engagement, Programme and Project Management, Financial Management, and Change management. Knowledge Management, Service Delivery Innovation (SDI Problem Solving and Analysis, People Management and Empowerment, Client Orientation and Customer Focus, Strategic, analytical, and creative thinking. Innovative and proactive. Ability to work long hours voluntarily. Ability to gather and analyze information. Ability to develop and apply policies, Ability to work independently and in a team. Ability to lead a multidisciplinary team. Good interpersonal relations skills. Ability to work under extreme pressure. Conflict management and resolution. Responsibility and Loyalty.

Duties:
Manage and provide strategic leadership to the Chief Directorate and contribute to the relevant programs and responsibilities within the Branch: Regulatory Compliance and Sector Monitoring. Ensure effective management of teams and programs within the department that monitor and promote compliance with environmental legislation across the different environmental sectors, including waste and pollution, biodiversity, and,

ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED ON a signed new Z83 application form (click the bold underlined text to download PDF form) obtainable from any public service department accompanied by a recent detailed curriculum vitae only, to be considered.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, senior certificates, identity documents, and driver’s licenses on or before the day of the interview.
APPLICATIONS MAY BE FORWARDED TO: The Director-General, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Private Bag X447, Pretoria, 0001 or Hand-delivered to: Environment House, Erf 1563 Arcadia Extension 6, Cnr Soutpansberg and Steve Biko Road, Arcadia, Pretoria. Or can it be emailed to the respective email address quoting the reference number on the subject email?
It is the applicant’s responsibility to have foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).
The National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the department’s equity plan. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Correspondence will be limited to successful candidates only.
Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment, including but not limited to: criminal records; ci, citizenship status; cr, creditworthiness; pr,vious employment (reference checks);, and qualification verification.
Short-listed candidates will be expected to avail themselves at the department’s convenience.
ENTRY-LEVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR SENIOR MANAGEMENT SERVICE (SMS) POSTS: In terms of the Directive on Compulsory Capacity Development, Mandatory Training Days and Minimum
Entry Requirements for SMS that was introduced on 1 April 2015, a requirement for all applicants for SMS posts from 1 April 2020 I,s, a successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-Entry Programme as endorsed by the National School of Government (NSG) before appointment. The course is available at the NSG under the name Certificate for entry into SMS and,, the full details can be obtained by following the below link:https://www.thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre entryprogramme/ Furthermore, shortlisted candidates must provide proof of successful completion of the course.
All candidates shortlisted for the posts will be subjected to a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical
elements of the job. Following the interview and the technical exercise, the selection panel will recommend candidates to attend
a generic managerial competency assessment in compliance with the DPSA directive on the implementation of competency-based assessments.
The person appointed to this position will be subjected to a security clearance, the signing of a performance agreement, and an employment contract.
The department reserves the right not to make an appointment.
If you have not been contacted within three (03) months after the closing date of the advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

Chief Director: Biodiversity Management and Permitting (BC01/2025)

Salary: Remuneration package of R1 436 022 per annum (all-inclusive salary package).
Centre(s): Pretoria

Requirements:
An undergraduate qualification in Environmental Science or Environmental Management or relevant qualification on (NQF 7) within the related field as recognized by SAQA. AAT at least five (5) years of experience at the senior management level within the related field.Successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-entry Programme as endorsed by the National School of Government (NSG). Knowledge of Natural resource management planning and implementation of natural, natural resource management, or Natural resource-based rural development. Knowledge of Programme-based natural resource operational management and/or planning. Value-added industry experience and expertise. Good negotiating skills and communication skills; Programme and Project Management; Financial Management. People Management and Empowerment: Good negotiating skills and communication skills (written and spoken). Ability to work long hours voluntarily.Ability to gather and analyze information.

Duties:
Manage the formulation and implementation of legislation, policies, and strategies for the conservation of biological diversity to curb the loss and minimize adverse impacts of human activity. Manage the development and implementation of relevant national policies, legislation, strategies, programs, norms, and standards in aspects relating to conservation management. Coordinate and manage the development of sustainable land management, wetland, and species policies and programs. Act as the technical focal point for UNCCD, RAMSAR Convention, CITIES, CMS, and AEWA. Promote SA’s interests globally in line with national priorities. Establish and act as a Secretariat for institutional mechanisms to coordinate global instruments at a national level. Mainstreaming of global instruments into national, provincial, and Sector strategies as well as Local Economic Development and Municipal Integrated Development Plan. Manage the biodiversity program coordination. Support Intergovernmental coordination and stakeholder liaison. Provide support to the oversight of public entities. Manage Financial systems for the Chief Directorate. Manage the procurement processes and oversee the Human Resources processes of admin staff.

ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED ON a signed new Z83 application form (click the bold underlined text to
download PDF form) obtainable from any public service department accompanied by a recent detailed curriculum
vitae only, to be considered.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, senior certificates, identity
document and driver’s license on or before the day of the interview.
APPLICATIONS MAY BE FORWARDED TO: The Director-General, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the
Environment, Private Bag X447, Pretoria, 0001 or
o Hand-delivered to: Environment House, Erf 1563 Arcadia Extension 6, Cnr Soutpansberg and Steve Biko
Road, Arcadia, Pretoria. Or it can be emailed to the respective email address quoting the reference number on the subject email.
It is the applicant’s responsibility to have foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).
The National Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment is an equal opportunity, affirmative action
employer. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the department’s equity plan. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Correspondence will be limited to successful candidates only.
Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for
employment, including but not limited to criminal records; citizenship status, creditworthiness, previous
employment (reference checks), and qualification verification.
Short-listed candidates will be expected to avail themselves at the department’s convenience.
ENTRY LEVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR SENIOR MANAGEMENT SERVICE (SMS) POSTS: In terms of the Directive on Compulsory Capacity Development, Mandatory Training Days and Minimum Entry Requirements for SMS that was introduced on 1 April 2015, a requirement for all applicants for SMS posts from 1 April 2020 is successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-Entry Programme as endorsed by the National School of Government (NSG) before appointment. The course is available at the NSG under the name Certificate for entry into SMS, and the full details can be obtained by following the
below link:https://www.thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre-entryprogramme/Furthermore, shortlisted candidates must provide proof of successful completion of the course.
All candidates shortlisted for the posts will be subjected to a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical
elements of the job. Following the interview and the technical exercise, the selection panel will recommend candidates to attend a generic managerial competency assessment in compliance with the DPSA directive on the implementation of competency-based assessments.
The person appointed to this position will be subjected to a security clearance, the signing of a performance agreement, and an employment contract.
The department reserves the right not to make an appointment.
If you have not been contacted within three (03) months after the closing date of the advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

Director: Corporate Legal Support and Litigation (RSCM01/2025)
Salary: Remuneration package of R1 216 824 per annum (all-inclusive salary package).
Centre(s): Cape Town

Requirements:
LLB Degree or relevant qualification on (NQF7) in Legal as recognized by SAQA.A minimum of five years experience at a middle/senior managerial level in the relevant field. Successful completion of the Public Service Senior Management Leadership Programme. Knowledge of litigation legal administration, policy development, project management, risk management, audit, and legislation procedures. Extensive drafting and negotiation experience, with an ability to provide innovative legal solutions in a highly litigious sector. Experienced litigation attorney or advocate with knowledge of the relevant environmental legislation or related experience. Advanced knowledge of South African High Court and Magistrate Court Rues, and experience in appearing in courts representing clients. Experience in negotiating, drafting, and vetting contracts/international agreements and experience in drafting legal opinions. Highly developed research and drafting skills. Knowledge of PAIA, POPIA, PAJA, and the Constitution is essential. Knowledge of Strategic Coordination and Business planning. Understanding and exposure to alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, financial management, change management, stakeholder engagement, program and project management, strategic capability, and leadership. Good, advanced negotiation skills, and adequate skills in computer use, presentation, and public speaking.g Ability to interpret the provisions of the PFMA and Treasury Regulations as well as specific environmental legislation, issues affecting the environment, and general environmental law is required.

Duties:
Manage and provide strategic leadership to the Directorate. Manage civil litigation by and against the department; ensure adequate information and complete briefs for counsel; prepare submissions to the Minister; give instructions to State Attorneys; provide support during trials and coordinate and ensure that affidavits are correct and complete. Alert the
Minister and DG of judgments, implications, and risks. Consult with stakeholders to obtain instructions to forward to the State Attorney or to provide oral legal advice, where applicable. Determine liability in respect of damages and losses. Recover debts and losses on behalf of the department. Manage the drafting and vetting of contracts, international..al

ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED ON a signed new Z83 application form (click the bold underlined text to download PDF form) obtainable from any public service department accompanied by a recent detailed curriculum vitae only, to be considered.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, senior certificates, identity
document and driver’s license on or before the day of the interview.
CAPE TOWN, NORTHERN CAPE, EASTERN CAPE, AND WESTERN CAPE APPLICATIONS MAY BE FORWARDED
TO: The Director-General, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. The Director: Integrated
Human Resource Management, Private Bag X4390, Cape Town, 8000 or Hand-delivered to Loop Street, Cape Town. it can be emailed to the respective email address quoting the reference number on the subject email.
It is the applicant’s responsibility to have foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).
The National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the department’s equity plan. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Correspondence will be limited to successful candidates only.
Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for
employment, including but not limited to criminal records; citizenship status; creditworthiness, previous employment (reference checks, and qualification verification.
Short-listed candidates will be expected to avail themselves at the department’s convenience.
ENTRY-LEVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR SENIOR MANAGEMENT SERVICE (SMS) POSTS: In terms of the Directive on Compulsory Capacity Development, Mandatory Training Days and Minimum
Entry Requirements for SMS that was introduced on 1 April 2015, a requirement for all applicants for SMS
posts from 1 April 202,,0 is a successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-Entry Programme as
endorsed by the National School of Government (NSbefore to appointment. The course is available at the
NSG under the name Certificate for entry into SMS and,, the full details can be obtained by following the
below link:https://www.thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre-entryprogramme/
Furthermore, shortlisted candidates must provide proof of successful completion of the course.
All candidates shortlisted for the posts will be subjected to will be subjected to a technical exercise that intends to
test relevant technical elements of the job.
o Following the interview and the technical exercise, the selection panel will recommend candidates to attend
a generic managerial competency assessment in compliance with the DPSA directive on the implementation
of competency-based assessments.
The person appointed to this position will be subjected to a security clearance, the signing of a performance
agreement and an employment contract.
The department reserves the right not to make an appointment.
If you have not been contacted within three (03) months after the closing date of the advertisement, please accept
that your application was unsuccessful.