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DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT
The National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer.
APPLICATIONS : All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/
CLOSING DATE : 09 November 2026, 16:00. No late applications will be accepted
NOTE : Interested applicants must submit their applications via the above link. Applicant must ensure that they complete all sections on the online Z83 and attached a detailed CV with at least three (3) contactable references. Failure to complete or disclose all required information will automatically disqualify the applicant. No late applications will be accepted Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, Senior Certificate, identity document and driver’s license on or before the day of the interview. It is the applicant’s responsibility to have foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). The National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the Department’s equity plan. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Correspondence will be limited to successful candidates only. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment, including but not limited to: Criminal records; Citizenship status; Credit worthiness; Previous employment (reference checks); and Qualification verification. Short-listed candidates will be expected to avail themselves at the Department’s convenience. Entry level requirements for SMS posts: In terms of the Directive on Compulsory Capacity Development, Mandatory Training Days & Minimum Entry Requirements for SMS that was introduced on 1 April 2015, a requirement for all applicants for SMS posts from 1 April 2020 is a successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-Entry Programme as endorsed by the National School of Government (NSG) prior to appointment. The course is available at the NSG under the name Certificate for entry into SMS and the full details can be obtained by following the below link: https://www.thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre-entry-programme. Furthermore, Shortlisted candidates must provide proof of successful completion of the course. All shortlisted candidates, including the SMS, shall undertake two pre-entry assessments. One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. Selection panels shall score both technical exercises as an additional criterion in the interview process. Following the interview and the technical exercise of all SMS posts, the Selection Panel will recommend candidates to attend a generic managerial competency assessment in compliance with the DPSA Directive on the implementation of competency-based assessments. Persons appointed will be subjected to a security clearance, the signing of performance agreement and employment contract. The Department reserves the right not to make an appointment. If you have not been contacted within three 3 months after the closing date of the advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful. By submitting the employment application form, you agree and consent in terms of Section 11(1) of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), 2013 (Act 4 of 2013), for your personal information which you provide to the DFFE to being processed by the department and its employees, agents, Cabinet committees, and subcontractors for recruitment purposes, in accordance with the POPIA of 2013.
MANAGEMENT ECHELON
DEPUTY DIRECTOR: FOREST MANAGEMENT PLANNING REF NO: FOM78/2026
SALARY : R1 101 468 per annum
CENTRE : Pretoria
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Forestry or relevant qualification within the related field as recognised by SAQA. A minimum of five (5) years’ experience in forestry or related field of which three (3) years must be at entry junior managerial level (Assistant Di-rector level or equivalent). knowledge of National Forest Act 1998 (Act 84 of 1998), National Veld and Forest Fire Act 1998 (Act 101 0f 1998), NEMA, NEMBA, Protected Areas, Land Reform Legislations and other Environmental legislations including Public Finance Regulations, Public Service Regulations, and PFMA. Knowledge of Forestry and environmental management sector. Knowledge of Enumeration for collection of data. Report writing skills and financial management. Excellent communication skills (written and verbal). Planning and Organising skills. Ability to work individually and in team. Ability to work under extreme pressure. Ability gather and analyse information. A valid Driving License and willingness to travel.
DUTIES : Manage the development and review of National Certification Standards. Consult with all stakeholders to obtain and consolidate their inputs. Workshop the standards in the forestry sector. Monitor the implementation of the standards on state forest land. Review PCI &S framework, Facilitate and monitor the implementation of PCI & S on State Forest land. Develop and review norms and standards for sustainable forest management. Manage the verification of data for valuation calculations. Calculate plantation valuation in compliance with accounting standards requirements. Develop action plan to address Auditor General recommendations. Manage a Biological Asset Database. Develop and implement best operating practices. Review best operating practices and give inputs on forestry tariffs.
ENQUIRIES : Ms Thembile Dlungwana, Cell: (072) 211 3859
COMMUNICATIONS ENGINEER/TECHNICIAN REF NO: OC30/2026
(Fifteen Months Contract)
SALARY : R932 292 per annum, (all-inclusive package)
CENTRE : Marion Island
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Electronic, Computer Science Engineering, IT or relevant qualification as recognised by SAQA with a minimum of 3 years post qualification experience. Competency in electronic maintenance, diagnostics and repairs with proven fault-finding capabilities. Preferably have experience in V-Sat Satellite Systems, IT (managing a computer network with LINUX servers and routers), HF and VHF 2-way radio equipment and operation, Telephone systems (PABX's and VOIP), PC's, Fire Detection Systems, GPS's, general electronic equipment repair. The incumbent has to be competent in the use of an Oscilloscope, Spectrum Analyser, etc., and be familiar with good workshop practices, correct use of basic workshop tools and an understanding of current work, health and safety policies. The incumbent has to be able to work independently with minimal support under extreme pressure and without supervision. The incumbent must be computer literate, have good verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work in a team.
DUTIES : The incumbent will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, fault-finding on and repairs of all the communication services and equipment of our Marion Base including the satellite, radio, IT, GPS, alarm and telephone systems. Operate cargo handling equipment. The incumbent will report to the team leader and will be part of the technical team, led by the technical team leader that has to perform any additional base related technical functions. Prepare monthly and annual reports, do stock-takes to order spares and equipment and do other common “non-technical” duties performed by expedition members.
ENQUIRIES : Mr Willem Boshoff Tel No: (021) 493 7379
NOTE : The incumbent will execute duties at a Sub/Antarctic Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
CONTROL BIODIVERSITY OFFICER GRADE A: WORLD HERITAGE CONVENTION GOVERNANCE REF NO: BC24/2026
SALARY : R636 978 per annum
CENTRE : Pretoria
REQUIREMENTS : A four-year Degree (NQF8) in Natural / Environmental Sciences or relevant qualification as recognized by SAQA plus a minimum of six (6) years’ post qualification experience in the relevant field. Knowledge of Environmental Legislation (WHCA, NEMPAA, NEMA, NEMBA). Understanding of cultural heritage legislation. Knowledge of UNESCO related Conventions. Knowledge of World Heritage Nominations and proclamation process; Scientific principles governing World heritage sites management and Relevant law, norms and standards, planning and organizing. Research and analytical skills. Ability to develop, interpret and apply policies. Good verbal and written communication skills; Good Interpersonal skills, Sound organizing and planning skills Interpersonal skills; Technical report writing skills. Ability to work independently and in a team. Ability to work under extreme pressure.
DUTIES : Enhance international cooperation supportive of SA’s Biodiversity priorities. Facilitate SA’s (National) preparatory meetings for the World Heritage Committee, General Assembly Session and any other ad hoc Committee sessions. Coordinate participation of the SA delegation in these international meetings including the Africa preparatory meeting to the World Heritage Committee. Enhance sector education and awareness. Develop concept document to guide process plan including national and international Stakeholder mapping, Partners, Content to be covered and overall project deliverables. Develop outcomes reports. Ensure Equitable and sound corporate governance. Facilitate the development and review of agreements with relevant stakeholders. Conserve, protect and mitigate biodiversity threats. Liaise with Countries in cases of potential transboundary or serial World Heritage to discuss the governance and legislation, policies and other applicable tools on the implementation of the Convention in South Africa.
ENQUIRIES : Ms T Ntloko Tel No: (012) 399 9531
CONTROL ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER GRADE A: OFFSHORE SOURCES OF MARINE POLLUTION REF NO: OC27/2026
SALARY : R636 978 per annum
CENTRE : Cape Town
REQUIREMENTS : An Honours Degree in Natural or Environmental Science or equivalent related qualification (NQF Level 8) as recognized by SAQA. 6 years’ post qualification experience. Maritime Oceans and Coastal management legislative frameworks. Strategic Management. HR practice & procedures. Administrative procedures. Maritime Legislations. Administration fields. Public Service and Departmental procedures and prescripts. Departmental policies and procedures. Financial management. Public service training. Research. Sound organising and planning skills. Good communication skills. Computer literacy. Leadership. Facilitation. Analytical skills. Ability to work long hours voluntarily. Ability to gather and analyse information. Ability to develop and apply policies. Ability to work individually and in team. Good interpersonal relations skills. Ability to work under extreme pressure. Ability to work with difficult people and to resolve conflict. The candidate must have a valid driver’s license (Code B) and be willing to travel extensively.
DUTIES : The incumbent will be responsible for maintaining the development of the Department’s capacity to deliver effective oil spill response. Ensure effective control over the dumping of waste and other matter at sea. Implement the Regulations for Environmental Management of Offshore Ship to Ship Transfers. Develop measures to control marine pollution from shipping. Maintain the Department’s international obligations in terms of marine pollution.
ENQUIRIES : Ms F Albertus Email: falbertus@dffe.gov.za
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER/TECHNICIAN REF NO: OC32/2026
(Approximately Fifteen Months Contract)
SALARY : R605 742 per annum, (plus 37% in lieu of service benefits)
CENTRE : Marion Island
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma in Electrical Engineering or relevant comparable qualification (NQF6) as recognised by SAQA with a minimum of five years post trade / qualification experience. Be competent in plant maintenance, power generation, diagnostics and repairs with proven fault-finding capabilities. Preferably have hands-on experience in facility management. The incumbent has to be familiar with good workshop practices, correct use of basic workshop tools and an understanding of current work, health and safety policies. It would be an advantage if there is experience with maintenance management plans as well as all the services that would be found in facilities like hotels or hospitals. The incumbent must be computer literate, have good verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work in a team.
DUTIES : The incumbent will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, fault-finding on and repairs of all the electrical equipment of Marion Base and associated buildings and field huts, including the power generators, forklift, air-conditioning-, refrigeration, water reticulation and waste water systems. All electrical work will have to be done by this person. Operate cargo handling equipment. The incumbent will report to the team leader and will be part of the technical team, led by the technical team leader that has to perform any additional base related technical functions. Prepare monthly and annual reports, do stock-takes to order spares and equipment and do other common “non-technical” duties performed by expedition members.
ENQUIRIES : Mr Willem Boshoff Tel No: (021) 493 7379
NOTE : The incumbent will execute duties at a Sub/Antarctic Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER SPECIALISED PRODUCTION LAND-BASED SOURCES REF NO: OC26/2026 (X2 POSTS)
SALARY : R518 769 per annum
CENTRE : Cape Town
REQUIREMENTS : Honours Degree in Natural or Environmental Management/Sciences (NQF Level 6) or relevant qualification as recognised by SAQA. 3 years’ experience in a related field. Extensive knowledge of the South African coast, marine and coastal pollution management, integrated coastal management, coastal processes, coastal management principles and national and international coastal policies and legislation. Knowledge of marine water quality and environmental monitoring techniques and management. Knowledge and understanding of data and information management. The ability to interpret and apply coastal and related legislation and policies, including the NEM: ICMA, NEMA, NEM: WA and NEM: BA Regulations, National Water Act, Minerals Act, international treaties and conventions, national and provincial laws, and departmental protocols. Functioning of coastal ecosystems and the impacts of human activity on those systems. Integrated Environmental Management and Environmental Impact Assessment. UNEP commitments, GPA programme, Regional Seas Conventions and related projects. Government administration and financial procedures. Project management. Public Service Regulation and Departmental procedures and prescripts. Background in Physical Sciences, Natural Sciences or Environmental Sciences. Sound organising and planning skills. Project management. Effective communicator. Analytical thinking. Scientific writing & reporting. Computer literacy. Driving. Multitasking. Networking and stakeholder engagement. Ability to work under pressure. Ability to meet tight deadlines, while maintaining good work quality. Good communication skills (written, oral and graphic). Willingness and ability to travel (at times on short notice). Ability to draft, interpret and apply policy and legislation. Ability to formulate solutions through analytical and innovative thinking. Ability to deal tactfully and efficiently with telephonic enquiries from members of the public. Ability to work within a team and individually. Ability to collect and analyse data and information. Good interpersonal skills. Proactive & honest. Conflict resolution.
DUTIES : The incumbent will be responsible to regulate the discharge of effluent into estuaries and coastal waters. Provide support to Departmental coastal pollution initiatives and other related projects. Represent the Directorate’s interests in EIA processes, relevant consultative forums, and other relevant structures to ensure good governance. Provide technical support to compliance and enforcement processes with specific focus on land-based sources of marine pollution.
ENQUIRIES : Mr R Molale at 072 493 7071 or Ms S Arabi at 082 741 2385
DIESEL MECHANIC REF NO: OC31/2026
(Approximately Fifteen Months Contract)
SALARY : R487 197 per annum, (plus 37% in lieu of service benefits)
CENTRE : Marion Island
REQUIREMENTS : Diesel Mechanic (Section 26D) Red Seal Trade Certificate issued by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) or relevant qualification. 3 years’ post trade experience as Diesel Mechanic or relevant field. Competency in diesel engine and generator maintenance, diagnostics, repairs and fault-finding, with knowledge of engine management systems, experience in operating electronic diagnostic tools as well as the ability to interpret results. The candidate has to be familiar with good workshop practices, correct use of basic workshop tools and an understanding of current work, health and safety policies. It would be an advantage if there is experience on refrigeration. The incumbent must be computer literate, have good verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work in a team.
DUTIES : The incumbent will be responsible for maintenance and operation of the power generators and related equipment. Maintenance and repairs of air-conditioning, refrigeration-, water reticulation- and wastewater systems. Replacement and repair of mechanical pumps and valves as well as pipe fitting. Maintenance and all repairs of forklift, telescopic cranes, portable generators and transfer pumps. Operate forklift and cargo handling equipment. Maintenance of field huts and field equipment. The incumbent will report to the team leader and will be part of the technical team, led by the technical team leader that has to perform any additional base related technical functions. Prepare monthly and annual reports, do stock-takes to order spares and equipment and do other common “non-technical” duties performed by expedition members.
ENQUIRIES : Mr Willem Boshoff Tel No: (021) 4937379
NOTE : The incumbent will execute duties at a Sub/Antarctic Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
MEDICAL ORDERLY REF NO: OC35/2026
(Approximately Fifteen Months Contract)
SALARY : R487 197 per annum, (plus 37% in lieu of Service Benefits)
CENTRE : Marion Island
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Nursing or Certificate in Operational Emergency Care Practitioner. Applicants must be registered with the HPCSA (Health Professions Council of South Africa) or SANC (South African Nursing Council.) 3-5 years relevant experience required. Knowledge of nursing care processes and procedures, nursing statutes and other relevant legal framework such as the Nursing Act, Health Act, Occupational Health & Safety Act, Patient Rights Charter Act, Public Service Regulations Act and Labour Relations Act. Must have leadership skills, decision making, problem solving, interpersonal skills and computer skills in basic programmes. The incumbent has to be able to work independently with minimal support under extreme pressure and without supervision. The incumbent must have good verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work in a team.
DUTIES : The incumbent will be responsible for providing medical treatment to all team members during the expedition and ensure the work is according to the scope of practise regulations. Undertake minor dental and x-rays when needed. Prepare reports, do stock-takes of food and medicines. Order spares and equipment and do other common non-technical duties performed by expedition members. Ensure the food is stored according to the medical acts by maintaining high standards of food/ hygiene/ housekeeper/ linen and tailoring roles. Provide support to team leader for coordinating and training for the rescue and evacuation/ emergency procedures for the island as well as in a social role to motivate and encourage fellow team members.
ENQUIRIES : Mr R Hlophe Tel No: (021) 493 7067
NOTE : The successful candidate will be required to attend compulsory training at the South African Weather Service in Cape Town. The incumbent will execute duties at Marion Island Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion base. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2027. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition, the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
SENIOR METEROLOGICAL TECHNICIAN REF NO: OC36/2026
(Approximately 15 Months Contract)
SALARY : R338 106 per annum, (plus 37% lieu in benefits). Permanent SAWS employees will have a different payment structure of benefits.
CENTRE : Marion Island
REQUIREMENTS : BSc Degree or BTech (NQF Level 6) in Natural Science or an equivalent qualification in a related field recognised by SAQA, with a minimum of one year’s experience in surface meteorological observations; or Grade 12 with a National Weather Certificate and five years’ experience in weather observation. Previous Island Experience will be an added advantage. Technical Competencies: Project Management, Conflict management, report writing and communication skills etc. Candidates must be willing to work shifts (both day and night shifts) and on public holidays, in possible adverse weather conditions. Candidates must be punctual, dedicated, precise and be willing to work in a team, as well as on their own.
DUTIES : Oversee and coordinate surface meteorological and atmospheric research project assigned by the Marine Section of SAWS. Exercise responsible shift management of the two assistant meteorological technicians. Responsible for the supervision of a team of assistant meteorological technicians, provide leadership and guidance on day-to-day operations, including delegation of tasks and ensure submission of daily and monthly reports within stipulated timeframes, ensuring compliance with WMO applicable standards. Perform surface meteorological observations, conduct upper-air balloon releases and maintain and verify all meteorological equipment at the remote station of Marion Island. Conduct quality control of data, report writing and asset control. Assist other team members with logistical and administrative tasks associated with the general running of the base. Conduct all duties in accordance with the rules, regulations and standards as set out by the South African Weather Service.
ENQUIRIES : Ms. R Chengwe: Tel No: (021) 935 5700
NOTE : The successful candidate will be required to attend compulsory training at the South African Weather Service in Cape Town. The incumbent will execute duties at Marion Island Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion base. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition, the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER: MARION ISLAND REF NO: OC33/2026
(Approximately Fifteen Months Contract)
SALARY : R338 106 per annum, (plus 37% lieu in benefits)
CENTRE : Marion Island
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma in Environmental Sciences/Management/Conservation or relevant comparable qualification in Natural Sciences (NQF6) as recognised by SAQA. Minimum2 years’ experience required. Knowledge of Public Service and Departmental procedures and prescripts and Environmental Legislation and experience in invasion ecology and plant identification. Must have the following skills: Adequate skills in computer use, report/professional writing, computer literacy, good interpersonal relations and diplomatic skills, relationship management, stakeholder engagement, presentation, research verbal and written communication skills. The incumbent must have the following competencies: teamwork, honesty and integrity, reliability, ability to gather and analyse information, ability to work individually and in a team, ability to walk in the field under extreme weather conditions and work under minimal supervision good interpersonal relations skills and ability to work under extreme pressure. Ability to work with difficult persons and to resolve conflict.
DUTIES : Implement biosecurity measures and promote general environmental awareness. Implement the Alien Eradication Plan (plants, invertebrates and rodents) and the Prince Edwards Islands Management Plan and associated legislation. Monitor compliance to Environmental Authorisations issued under the EIA Regulations for activities at the Prince Edward Islands (PEIs). Ensure implementation of the SANAP Waste Management Handbook and undertake country clean-up activities. Ensure environmental compliance and auditing and compile monthly and annual ECO reports. Manage and conserve threats to environmental integrity and ecosystems.
ENQUIRIES : Ms D Kotsedi Tel No: (021) 493 7354
NOTE : The incumbent will execute duties at a Sub/Antarctic Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition, the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
ASSISTANT ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER: MARION ISLAND REF NO: OC37/2026
(Approximately Fifteen Months Contract)
SALARY : R280 278 per annum, (plus 37% lieu in benefits)
CENTRE : Marion Island
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma in Environmental Sciences/Management/Conservation or equivalent relevant qualification (NQF6) in Natural Sciences as recognised by SAQA. 0-1 years’ experience required. The incumbent must have knowledge of Public Service and Departmental procedures and prescripts. Knowledge of Environmental Legislation. Strategic coordination/ planning. Skills; Adequate skills in computer use. Report/professional writing, Computer Literacy, good interpersonal relations and diplomatic skills, relationship management, stakeholder engagement presentation, research verbal and written communication skills. The incumbent must have the following competencies: teamwork, honesty integrity reliability, ability to gather and analyse information, ability to work individually and in a team, good interpersonal relations skills, ability to walk in the field under extreme weather conditions and work under minimal supervision and ability to work with difficult persons and to resolve conflict.
DUTIES : Provide support to the senior ECO with the implementation of the Alien Species Eradication Plan (plants, invertebrates and rodents) and the Prince Edward Islands Management Plan and associated legislation. Monitor compliance to Environmental Authorisations issued under the EIA Regulations for activities at the Prince Edward Islands (PEIs). Provide support in the implementation of biosecurity measures and promote general environmental awareness. Ensure implementation of the SANAP Waste Management Handbook and undertake country clean-up activities. Provide support in ensuring environmental compliance and auditing and compile monthly and annual ECO reports. Manage threats to environmental integrity and conserve ecosystems.
ENQUIRIES : Ms D Kotsedi Tel No: (021) 493 7354
NOTE : The incumbent will execute duties at a Sub/Antarctic Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition, the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
ASSISTANT METEOROLOGICAL TECHNICIAN REF NO: OC29/2026
(X2 Posts (Approximately 15 Months Contract)
SALARY : R280 278 per annum, (plus 37% lieu in benefits). Permanent SAWS employees will have a different payment structure of benefits.
CENTRE : Marion Island
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma in Natural Sciences or an equivalent relevant qualification (NQF Level 6) recognised by SAQA, with 0–1 year of relevant experience; or Grade 12 with a National Weather Certificate and two (2) years of experience in weather observation. Knowledge of Automatic Weather Stations and Automatic Rain Stations, Knowledge of South African Weather Service policies and procedures, Knowledge of international standards such as WMO and ICAO Technical Competencies: Communication and interpersonal skills etc. Candidates must be willing to work shifts (both day and night shifts) and on public holidays, in possible adverse weather conditions. Candidates must be punctual, dedicated, precise and be willing to work in a team, as well as on their own.
DUTIES : Assist and actively participate in the running of the surface meteorological and atmospheric research project assigned by the Marine Section of SAWS. Perform surface meteorological observations, conduct upper-air balloon releases and maintain and verify all equipment at the remote station of Marion Island. Conduct quality control of data and when required or perform tasks within the prescribed scope of work as delegated by the Senior Meteorological Technician. Assist other team members with logistical and administrative tasks associated with the general running of the base. Conduct all duties in accordance with the rules, regulations and standards as set out by the South African Weather Service.
ENQUIRIES : Ms. R Chengwe Tel No: (021) 935 5700
NOTE : The successful candidate will be required to attend compulsory training at the South African Weather Service in Cape Town. The incumbent will execute duties at Marion Island Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion base. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition, the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
FIELD ASSISTANTS: SEABIRDS REF NO: 34/2026 (X2 POSTS)
(Approximately Fifteen Months Contract)
SALARY : R280 278 per annum, (plus 37% lieu in benefits)
CENTRE : Marion Island
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma (NQF Level 6) or relevant qualification in Natural Science. 0–1-year experience required in Marion Island. Knowledge of environmental legislation. Public Service and Departmental procedures and prescripts. Experience in field surveys, research administration, data collection and management, bird’s identification & handling, disseminate information, report writing and recording. Must have good attention to detail and be meticulous in data collection and demonstrate experience to conduct scientific monitoring relating to seabirds to a high standard. Must be self-motivated and able to work at a remote place away from family and friends with minimal supervision.
DUTIES : Undertake biological research, fieldwork and monitoring according to a workplan as devised by the project managers. Make day-to-day decisions about work priorities and fieldwork protocols. Maintain accurate records of the work and computer databases of the work. Regularly report to and update the project manager on progress of the project. The applicants must have determination, physical fitness and the ability to work under harsh environmental conditions subject to extremes of weather; a desire to work with animals, including handling of seabird adults and chicks, which require empathy for the birds. Successful applicants will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion Island. Note that there is no option to return before the end of the expedition, once you land at the island. The well-equipped new base station has full e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities.
ENQUIRIES : Leshia Visagie at (082) 447 9302, Makhudu Masotla at (079) 220 8888, Azwianewi Makhado at (082) 377 3088
NOTE : The incumbent will execute duties at a Sub/Antarctic Base and adhere to the health, safety and environmental requirements. The successful applicant will spend a full year (April 2027 to May 2028) at Marion Island. There is no option to return to South Africa before May 2028. The ability to work and live with small groups of people is thus essential. Although the base is well-equipped with e-mail, fax and satellite telephone facilities, the applicant has to be self-sufficient and self-motivated. The location may affect both the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent, their family and close relationships. Candidates must be physically fit, mentally strong and prepared for physically challenging and satisfying work. In addition the successful candidates may often be called upon to work long hours in extreme conditions on duties unrelated to their function. Short-listed candidates will be subjected to screening and security vetting to determine their suitability for employment. Appointment to these positions is subject to a rigorous medical examination as well as psychometric assessment, which will be arranged for at no cost to the applicants.
