Forestry, Fisheries and The Environment Senior Forester Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and The Environment (DFFE) is seeking a dedicated Senior Forester for a vital role in the Eastern Cape. This position is central to the effective management and protection of state forest plantations within the region.

This opportunity involves contributing to environmental sustainability, implementing operational plans, and ensuring compliance with forestry legislation. The Senior Forester will play a key role in both commercial activities and conservation efforts, making a tangible impact on South Africa's natural resources.

Minimum Requirements

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

• A National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Forestry / Natural Resources Management or an equivalent qualification recognised by SAQA.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience in Forestry or a relevant field.
• Knowledge of the National Forests Act, 1998 (Act 84 of 1998) and the National Veld and Forest Fires Act, 1998 (Act 101 of 1998).
• Familiarity with other relevant legislation such as NEMA, NEMBA, CARA, Protected Areas Act, Public Services Act, PFMA, and Treasury Regulations.
• Knowledge of the forest and environmental management sector.
• Knowledge of the PCI&S management Framework.
• Demonstrated skills in people management and empowerment, client orientation, customer focus, financial management, and project and programme management.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal), facilitation and negotiation skills, conflict management skills, and planning and organising skills.
• Excellent interpersonal relations skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, work long hours, and function effectively both individually and as part of a team.
• A valid driving license and a willingness to travel extensively.
• Shortlisted candidates will be required to undertake two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise and an Integrity (Ethical Conduct) Assessment.

Key Responsibilities

The successful Senior Forester will be responsible for:

• Overseeing commercial activities within state forest plantations.
• Implementing operational plans for state forest plantations.
• Conducting quality assurance on work performed by service providers.
• Developing comprehensive management plans.
• Assisting in the compilation and regular updating of annual plans of operations.
• Planning and conducting physical verifications for state forest plantations in the region.
• Monitoring compliance with applicable business processes for the management of state forest plantations.
• Preparing weekly and monthly reports.
• Implementing Audit Action Plans and maintaining accurate records of evidence.
• Contributing to job creation through the Expanded Public Works Programme.
• Ensuring the protection of plantations from fires, livestock, and pests.
• Assisting with the implementation, enforcement, and promotion of the National Forest Act (NFA), Conservation of Natural Resources Act (CARA), and National Veld Forest Fire Act (NVFFA).
• Administering forestry support services.
• Participating in stakeholder engagements.
• Conducting awareness campaigns.
• Managing and supervising employees within the unit.

What the Work Involves

As a Senior Forester in the Eastern Cape, you will be deeply involved in the day-to-day operations and strategic management of state forest plantations. Your work will involve a balance of field activities and administrative tasks, ensuring the health and productivity of these vital resources.

On any given day, you could be found in the field conducting physical verifications, monitoring compliance, or overseeing the protection of plantations from various threats like fires and pests. You will also be crucial in implementing operational plans and quality-assuring the work of service providers. In an office setting, you will develop management plans, compile reports, and manage employees, all while participating in stakeholder engagements and promoting forestry legislation. The role requires considerable travel throughout the Eastern Cape.