JOBS AT DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

DFFE Vacancies 2026 – Build a Career That Protects South Africa’s Future

Are you passionate about the environment, sustainability, and public service? The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is inviting motivated and qualified South Africans to apply for its 2026 employment opportunities.

With vacancies available across forestry, fisheries, biodiversity, legal services, finance, administration, and scientific research, this is your chance to make a real impact while building a rewarding government career.

Positions are available nationwide, including Pretoria, Cape Town, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, North West, and the Western Cape.

DFFE proudly supports employment equity and strongly encourages applications from women and persons with disabilities.

⏰ Applications Close

23 February 2026 at 16:00
No late applications will be accepted.

What You Need to Apply

To be considered, ensure you submit:
✔ A signed new Z83 form
✔ A recent, comprehensive CV
✔ One combined PDF document only
✔ The correct job title and reference number
✔ Your application to the correct email address

Successful candidates will later be asked to submit certified documents and undergo background verification.

High-Level Leadership Opportunities

Step into senior leadership with roles such as:

Chief Director: Oceans and Coastal Research

• Salary: R1.49 million per year

• Location: Cape Town

Lead national marine research programmes, shape environmental policy, and drive long-term coastal monitoring initiatives.

Director Positions (Multiple Fields)

• Salary: R1.26 million per year

• Locations: Pretoria, Limpopo, Mpumalanga

Fields include legal support, biodiversity enforcement, and state forest management.

Science & Research Careers

If you are a scientist ready to influence policy and protect ecosystems, DFFE is recruiting:

• Scientific Manager: Marine Biodiversity Research

• Scientist Production Grade A (Physical Oceanography)

These roles offer hands-on research, data analysis, fieldwork, and national-level impact.

Forestry & Environmental Management Jobs

Join the frontline of sustainable development through roles such as:

• Deputy Directors

• Assistant Directors

• Project Coordinators

You’ll work on state forest management, community forestry, greening projects, EPWP initiatives, and SMME support, directly improving livelihoods and protecting natural resources.

Legal, Compliance & Appeals Careers

Legal professionals are needed to support:

• Environmental and mining appeals

• Compliance enforcement

• Protected area legislation

These roles play a critical part in upholding environmental law and accountability.

Finance, Supply Chain & Admin Opportunities

DFFE also offers stable and rewarding careers in:

• Financial Reporting

• Supply Chain Management

• Accounting and Cash Management

• Contract Administration

These roles keep the department compliant, efficient, and audit-ready.

Human Resources & Skills Development

Help build a capable public service by applying for Senior HR Practitioner roles focusing on:

• Skills development

• Performance management

• Workforce capacity building

Why Choose DFFE?

🌱 Make a difference in environmental protection
💼 Enjoy competitive government salary packages
🌍 Gain exposure to national and international programmes
📈 Grow your career within the public service

📢 Final Reminder

If you do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date, please regard your application as unsuccessful.

Apply now and be part of shaping South Africa’s environmental future.