JOBS AT DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

DFFE Vacancies 2026: Exciting Government Career Opportunities Now Open

Looking to advance your career in environmental management, financial leadership, fisheries governance, or wildlife protection? The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has officially opened applications for several high-level and specialist vacancies for 2026.

With salaries reaching over R1.8 million per year, these positions offer qualified professionals the opportunity to make a real impact in South Africa’s environmental and conservation sectors.

⏰ Closing Date: 25 May 2026 at 16:00

The department has encouraged skilled candidates — including persons living with disabilities — to apply.

Available DFFE Jobs for 2026

Deputy Director-General: Financial Management Services

📍 Pretoria
💰 R1 813 182 per annum
📌 Ref: CFO22/2026

DFFE is searching for an experienced financial leader to oversee budgeting, supply chain management, audit services, and financial governance within the department.

Requirements include:

• NQF Level 8 qualification in Financial Management, Accounting Science, or related field
• Minimum 8 years of senior management experience
• Strong understanding of PFMA, risk management, and corporate governance

This is an ideal opportunity for senior finance professionals seeking a top government leadership role.

Deputy Director-General: Fisheries Management

📍 Cape Town
💰 R1 813 182 per annum
📌 Ref: FIM16/2026

Passionate about marine sustainability and fisheries development? This executive-level role focuses on shaping South Africa’s fisheries and aquaculture future.

The successful candidate will:

• Lead fisheries and aquaculture policy development
• Manage marine resource programmes
• Promote sustainable economic growth
• Coordinate international fisheries partnerships

Applicants should have:

• An NQF Level 8 qualification in Environmental Sciences, Fisheries Sciences, Law, Public Administration, or related fields
• Extensive senior management experience

Deputy Director: Strategic Regional Enforcement and Investigation Support

📍 Limpopo & Mpumalanga
💰 R932 292 per annum
📌 Ref: RCSM04/2026
📅 2-Year Contract

DFFE is strengthening its anti-poaching and wildlife crime operations and is looking for skilled enforcement professionals to join the fight against environmental crime.

Key duties include:

• Coordinating wildlife crime investigations
• Supporting prosecutions
• Managing enforcement operations
• Working with wildlife crime forums and stakeholders

Minimum requirements:

• National Diploma in Policing, Law, Environmental Law, or Forensic Investigation
• 5 years of enforcement or investigation experience
• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel

Assistant Director: Forest Resource Protection (X2 Posts)

💰 R605 742 per annum

📍 Western Cape – Ref: FOM23/2026
📍 Limpopo / Mpumalanga – Ref: FOM24/2026

These positions are ideal for forestry and environmental professionals passionate about protecting South Africa’s natural resources.

Responsibilities include:

• Monitoring forestry legislation compliance
• Conducting environmental assessments
• Managing protected tree licensing
• Supporting forestry stakeholder training

Applicants need:

• A National Diploma in Forestry, Environmental Management, Natural Science, or related field
• At least 3 years of relevant experience

Knowledge of the National Forest Act will be an added advantage.

How to Apply

To apply, candidates must submit:
✅ A signed Z83 application form
✅ A detailed CV

Only shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide certified supporting documents.

Applicants should also be prepared for:

• Security vetting
• Qualification checks
• Integrity assessments
• Technical and competency evaluations

Build Your Career with DFFE

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment continues to promote employment equity and inclusive hiring practices.

If you are ready to contribute to environmental sustainability, financial governance, marine resource management, or wildlife protection, this could be your opportunity to join one of South Africa’s key government departments.

📅 Apply before 25 May 2026 at 16:00.