Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Environmental Officer Specialised Production Land-Based Sources Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is inviting applications for two Environmental Officer positions specialising in land-based sources. These roles are based in Cape Town and offer a chance to contribute significantly to the protection and management of South Africa's coastal and marine environments.

This is a re-advertisement, and individuals who previously applied are encouraged to re-apply for these important roles within a key government department. Successful candidates will play a part in regulating effluent discharge and supporting coastal pollution initiatives.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• An Honours Degree (NQF Level 8) in Natural or Environmental Management/Sciences or a relevant qualification as recognised by SAQA.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in a related field.
• Extensive knowledge of the South African coast, marine and coastal pollution management, integrated coastal management, coastal processes, coastal management principles, and national and international coastal policies and legislation.
• Knowledge of marine water quality and environmental monitoring techniques and management.
• Knowledge and understanding of data and information management.
• The ability to interpret and apply coastal and related legislation and policies, including the NEM: ICMA, NEMA, NEM: WA and NEM: BA Regulations, National Water Act, Minerals Act, international treaties and conventions, national and provincial laws, and departmental protocols.
• Knowledge of the functioning of coastal ecosystems and the impacts of human activity on those systems.
• Knowledge of Integrated Environmental Management and Environmental Impact Assessment.
• Knowledge of UNEP commitments, GPA programme, Regional Seas Conventions and and related projects.
• Knowledge of Government administration and financial procedures, Public Service Regulation, and Departmental procedures and prescripts.
• A background in Physical Sciences, Natural Sciences, or Environmental Sciences.
• Sound organising and planning skills.
• Project management skills.
• Effective communication skills (written, oral, and graphic).
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Scientific writing and reporting skills.
• Computer literacy.
• Ability to multitask, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines while maintaining good work quality.
• Networking and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to draft, interpret, and apply policy and legislation.
• Ability to deal tactfully and efficiently with telephonic enquiries from the public.
• Ability to work within a team and individually.
• Ability to collect and analyse data and information.
• Good interpersonal skills, proactiveness, and honesty.
• Conflict resolution skills.
• A driving license.
• Willingness and ability to travel.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• Regulating the discharge of effluent into estuaries and coastal waters.
• Providing support to Departmental coastal pollution initiatives and other related projects.
• Representing the Directorate’s interests in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) processes, relevant consultative forums, and other relevant structures to ensure good governance.
• Providing technical support to compliance and enforcement processes, with a specific focus on land-based sources of marine pollution.

What the Work Involves

As an Environmental Officer specialising in land-based sources, your day-to-day work will be centred in Cape Town, though it will involve travel as needed. You will be actively involved in regulating discharges into estuaries and coastal waters, ensuring compliance with environmental legislation. A significant part of your role will involve representing the Directorate in various forums and EIA processes, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills. You will also provide technical guidance and support for enforcing regulations related to land-based marine pollution. Your work will directly contribute to safeguarding South Africa’s valuable coastal and marine ecosystems.