Job Opportunities at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment

South Africa’s Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) is offering a range of career opportunities that enable skilled individuals to make a significant impact on the country’s conservation and environmental management efforts. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment is currently inviting applications for several critical roles, each demanding expertise in natural sciences, environmental policy, biodiversity management, and sustainable development. With a commitment to equality and affirmative action, the department particularly encourages persons with disabilities and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.

These roles are based in Pretoria and are ideal for professionals who hold advanced degrees and have relevant post-qualification experience. The deadline for applications is 2 December 2024.

Key Application Requirements

To be considered for any of these positions, applicants must complete a new signed Z83 form, which is available at any Public Service Department, along with a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV). Candidates shortlisted for interviews will need to provide certified copies of their qualifications, including their Senior Certificate, identity document, and driver’s license. Applicants with qualifications obtained outside of South Africa must ensure these are evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).

Completed applications can be submitted by email, mail, or hand-delivered to the department’s offices in Pretoria. The DFFE will communicate only with successful candidates, so applicants who have not heard back within three months of the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.

Available Job Opportunities at Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment

1. Control Biodiversity Officer (Threatened or Protected Species – TOPS)

Reference: BC07/2024
Salary: R580,551 per annum (OSD)
Role Summary: This role focuses on developing policies for the protection of threatened or protected species under the Biodiversity Act. The officer will ensure a multi-sector regulatory system for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, coordinate stakeholder engagement, and support line functions in biodiversity management.
Requirements: A four-year degree in Natural/Environmental Sciences with six years of experience, particularly in the application of biodiversity and environmental management acts and policies.

2. Control Environmental Officer (Socio-Economic Sectors)

Reference: CCAQ01/2024
Salary: R580,551 per annum (OSD)
Role Summary: Responsible for coordinating climate change adaptation programs, this position involves integrating research outputs into policy and supporting provincial climate change adaptation initiatives. The officer will also work on local government climate adaptation strategies.
Requirements: A four-year degree in Environmental Management or Science with six years of experience. Applicants should have knowledge in project management, climate change adaptation, and finance/budget management.

3. Environmental Officer (EIA Authorisation – Integrated Environmental Authorisation)

Reference: RCSM03/2024 (2 Positions)
Salary: R472,812 per annum (OSD)
Role Summary: Officers will handle Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) applications, reviewing decisions, conducting site inspections, and ensuring compliance with the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) regulations.
Requirements: An Honours degree in Environmental Management/Natural Sciences with at least three years of EIA sector experience, along with knowledge of NEMA regulations and amendments.

4. Biodiversity Officer (Invasive Alien Species – Enforcement)

Reference: RCSM02/2024
Salary: R472,812 per annum (OSD)
Role Summary: This officer focuses on enforcing regulations concerning invasive alien species. Responsibilities include conducting criminal investigations, drafting legal documents, coordinating with law enforcement, and ensuring compliance with biodiversity laws.
Requirements: An Honours degree in Environmental Management/Natural Sciences, experience in compliance and enforcement, and proficiency in handling alien and invasive species cases. Environmental Management Inspector certification is advantageous.

5. Biodiversity Officer (Bioprospecting Economy – Policy Development)

Reference: BC04/2024
Salary: R325,917 per annum (OSD)
Role Summary: The officer will support policy development on bioprospecting, traditional knowledge, and biodiversity economy strategies. They will also manage biodiversity permits and databases, providing technical support for projects related to the sustainable use of biological resources.
Requirements: A National Diploma in Environmental Management/Natural Sciences, with knowledge of biodiversity economy strategies and related environmental legislation.

6. Biodiversity Officer (Conservation Management)

Reference: BC05/2024
Salary: R325,917 per annum (OSD)
Role Summary: The role entails coordinating the development and implementation of biodiversity management plans and species conservation tools, ensuring alignment with biodiversity conservation agreements.
Requirements: A National Diploma or Degree in Biological Sciences/Natural Science with experience in species conservation management and policy implementation.

Career Advancement and Contribution to National Goals

Each role offers professionals the opportunity to contribute to sustainable environmental practices, policy development, and compliance enforcement within South Africa’s natural resource sectors. The DFFE aims to balance conservation with economic development, particularly within rural communities, aligning its programs with international conservation agreements like CITES and the Nagoya Protocol.

These positions also promise ample opportunities for professional growth, including strategic involvement in high-profile environmental programs, policy-making roles, and active engagement with local and international stakeholders.

Application Details

For application inquiries or to submit applications, candidates can reach out to specific contacts within Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment:

Control Biodiversity Officer (TOPS Policy Development) – Ms. O Kumalo (Tel: 012 399 8818, Email: bc07@dffe.gov.za)
Control Environmental Officer (Socio-Economic Sectors) – Ms. F Nkohla (Tel: 012 399 9362, Email: ccaq01@dffe.gov.za)
Environmental Officer (EIA Authorisation) – Ms. M Morudu (Tel: 012 399 9375, Email: rcsm03@dffe.gov.za)
Biodiversity Officer (Invasive Alien Species Enforcement) – Mr. B Ndou (Tel: 012 399 9487, Email: rcsm02@dffe.gov.za)
Biodiversity Officer (Bioprospecting Economy) – Ms. N Feltman (Tel: 012 399 8917, Email: bc04@dffe.gov.za)

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) offers a unique opportunity for professionals passionate about environmental conservation, biodiversity management, and climate resilience to make a tangible impact on South Africa’s natural resources. With roles that span policy development, law enforcement, and environmental impact assessment, these positions invite individuals to contribute to a sustainable future for both the environment and local communities.

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