DFFE Is Hiring in 2026 – High-Paying Government Jobs Open Now (Apply Before 23 March)

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has officially opened new job opportunities for 2026, offering competitive government salaries and exciting career paths for South Africans who want to make a real impact on the environment.

From high-level director roles earning over R1.2 million per year to graduate internships, this recruitment drive provides opportunities for professionals in environmental science, GIS, law, fisheries management, and public administration.

If you are passionate about protecting South Africa’s natural resources, biodiversity, and marine ecosystems, this could be your opportunity to work in one of the country’s most important environmental departments.

Top DFFE Job Opportunities Available Now

Director: Environmental Spatial Information

📍 Pretoria
💰 Salary: R1 266 714 per year

Lead the department’s geospatial systems and oversee national environmental spatial data management. Ideal for experienced GIS professionals with leadership experience.

GISc Professional Chief Grade A

📍 Pretoria
💰 Salary: R1 099 488 per year

A senior GIS role responsible for spatial modelling, research frameworks, and supporting environmental decision-making using geospatial technology.

Senior Legal Administration Officer

📍 Cape Town
💰 Salary: R586 956 per year

An excellent opportunity for experienced legal professionals with expertise in environmental and administrative law.

Assistant Director: Fisheries Management

📍 Cape Town
💰 Salary: R468 459 per year

Work directly in marine resource management regulating fisheries sectors such as abalone, seaweed, oysters, and linefish.

Legal Administration Officer

📍 Cape Town
💰 Salary: R464 634 per year

Support environmental appeals, legal policy drafting, and ministerial decision-making processes.

Biodiversity Officer

📍 Pretoria
💰 Salary: R343 842 per year

Perfect for early-career environmental professionals interested in biodiversity protection and environmental law enforcement.

Graduate Internship Programme (2026 – 2028)

DFFE is also recruiting graduates for a 24-month internship programme.

💰 Monthly stipend: R7 860.50

Internship fields include:

• Environmental Science

• Forestry Management

• Journalism & Communications

• Information Technology

• Data Management

• Aquaculture

• Financial Management

• Public Administration

• Multimedia and Media Studies

📍 Internship locations include Pretoria, Cape Town, Eastern Cape, Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth, Bhisho, and Mthatha.

This programme offers valuable government work experience and career development opportunities.

How to Apply

To apply, candidates must submit:

✔ Completed Z83 application form
✔ Updated CV

Important application tips:

• Submit all documents in a single PDF file

• Include the reference number and job title in the email subject line

• Certified documents will only be required if you are shortlisted

Application Deadlines

⏰ Government Vacancies Close:
23 March 2026 at 16:00

⏰ Internship Programme Closes:
31 March 2026 at 16:00

Late applications will not be accepted, so apply early.

Why Work for DFFE?

Working at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment allows you to:

🌱 Protect South Africa’s biodiversity
🌊 Support sustainable fisheries and marine resources
🌍 Contribute to environmental policy and governance
📈 Build a long-term career in the public sector

The department is also an equal opportunity employer, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

✅ Tip: Government positions like these receive thousands of applications, so submitting early can improve your chances.