Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Deputy Director: Monitoring & Surveillance Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is seeking a dedicated professional for the position of Deputy Director: Monitoring & Surveillance based in Cape Town. This vital role focuses on upholding marine living resource regulations and ensuring compliance across various fisheries sectors.

The successful candidate will be instrumental in managing and executing critical enforcement measures, including anti-poaching operations and inspections, to promote the sustainable use and protection of South Africa's marine resources.

Minimum Requirements

• National Diploma (NQF6) in Natural Science, Law Enforcement, or a relevant qualification as recognised by SAQA.
• A minimum of five (5) years of experience in Law Enforcement, administration, management, or a related field.
• At least three (3) years of the required experience must have been at an entry/junior managerial level (Assistant Director level or equivalent).
• Knowledge of the National Constitution, Marine Living Resources Act (MLRA) and Regulations (Act 18/98), South African Maritime Safety Authority Act: Act 5 of 1998, and the Environmental Management Act.
• Knowledge of International Agreements and Conventions including UNCLOS, SADC, and Regional Fisheries Management Organisations such as CCAMLR, IOTC, ICCAT, and CCSBT.
• Demonstrated skills in Project Management, Conflict Resolution, Communication (written and verbal), Leadership (visionary/operational), Planning and Execution, and Delegations and Empowerment.
• Ability to work long hours voluntarily.
• Ability to gather and analyse information.
• Ability to develop and apply policies.
• Ability to work under extreme pressure.
• Ability to work with difficult persons and resolve conflict.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Supervisory experience.
• A valid driving license is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage, plan, coordinate, and execute compliance and enforcement measures.
• Oversee the selection of targeted right holders for investigation across six key fisheries sectors.
• Ensure proper reporting on completed investigations to the Chief Directorate.
• Manage land, sea, and air border inspections to promote awareness and compliance with the Marine Living Resources Act (MLRA).
• Identify priority sea, land, and ports of entry and exit.
• Create awareness and sensitise stakeholders and role-players towards the protection and sustainable use of marine living resources.
• Manage, plan, coordinate, and execute compliance and enforcement measures through anti-poaching operations.
• Consult with relevant role-players and stakeholders to facilitate proper planning of operations.
• Ensure and facilitate logistical arrangements, submissions, and approvals for operations.
• Manage enforcement efforts and associated reporting.
• Ensure that cases and J534 fines related to infringements of the Marine Living Resources Act (MLRA) and other relevant marine-related legislations are documented correctly.
• Intervene in matters/cases of National and International importance by providing enforcement expertise and support.

What the Work Involves

The Deputy Director: Monitoring & Surveillance plays a central role in enforcing marine living resources legislation. This position requires a blend of strategic oversight and active involvement in enforcement operations. Day-to-day duties will include managing investigations into fisheries sectors, coordinating inspections at various borders, and identifying critical points for monitoring.

A significant aspect of the work involves planning and leading anti-poaching operations, which demands careful consultation with stakeholders, meticulous logistical organisation, and accurate reporting. The role also requires ensuring that all legal documentation, such as fines and case reports under the Marine Living Resources Act, are correctly managed. This position involves both office-based planning and coordination, as well as fieldwork related to inspections and operations across land, sea, and air environments. The Deputy Director will work alongside various role-players and stakeholders, reporting to the Chief Directorate.