Published: 28 August 2026
Last updated: 2 September 2026
Last checked: 2 September 2026
Last reviewed: 2 September 2026
Advertisement status: Open at the time of the latest review
Amended advertisement: No amendment identified in the supplied DFFE advertisement during the latest review
Withdrawal: No withdrawal identified during the latest review
Closing date: 14 September 2026 at 16:00
Employer: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Circular: Public Service Vacancy Circular 31 of 2026
Employment type: Various public service positions. The Project Manager: Global Environment 8 position is advertised as a five-year fixed-term contract.
Locations: Pretoria, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Cape Town
Application method: Online application through the DFFE eRecruitment system
Salary range: R144,024 to R1,101,468 per annum
Official source: Department of Public Service and Administration and Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Quick Answer
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has advertised vacancies under Public Service Vacancy Circular 31 of 2026. The DFFE vacancies appear under Annexure D of the circular, covering pages 15 to 23 of the supplied advertisement. The positions include project management, forestry management, forest land management, performance management, administration, scientific research, forestry operations, security and forestry support services.
The closing date is 14 September 2026 at 16:00. DFFE requires applicants to apply online, complete all required sections of the online Z83 and attach a detailed CV with at least three contactable references. DFFE states that late applications will not be accepted.
Download Official DPSA Circular 31 of 2026
Use the official Public Service Vacancy Circular when checking the complete advertisement, qualifications, duties, reference numbers and application instructions.
[Download the Official DPSA Circular 31 of 2026 PDF]
The DFFE vacancies covered in this article appear under Annexure D, pages 15 to 23 of the supplied circular.
Do not rely on this summary alone when submitting your application. Read the relevant official advertisement for the position you want.
Apply Online for DFFE Vacancies
DFFE states that applications must be submitted online through its eRecruitment system.
[Apply on the Official DFFE eRecruitment Portal]
The official advertisement gives 14 September 2026 at 16:00 as the closing deadline and states that no late applications will be accepted.
Vacancy Status
Status checked: 2 September 2026
Current status: Open at the time of review
Closing date: 14 September 2026 at 16:00
Amended advertisement: No amendment identified in the supplied advertisement during this review
Withdrawal: No withdrawal identified during this review
Application channel: DFFE eRecruitment
Applicants should check the official DFFE recruitment system again before submitting an application because government vacancy information can change after publication.
Source Verification
Source organisation: Department of Public Service and Administration
Recruiting department: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Circular: Public Service Vacancy Circular 31 of 2026
DFFE section: Annexure D
DFFE advertisement pages: 15 to 23
Closing date: 14 September 2026 at 16:00
Application method: Online DFFE eRecruitment system
Last checked by DPSACircular.co.za: 2 September 2026
The DFFE advertisement states that applicants must use the online application system and complete all sections of the online Z83.
Introduction
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has advertised a range of positions through Public Service Vacancy Circular 31 of 2026.
The opportunities cover several areas of public service work, including environmental project management, indigenous forest management, state forest management, forest land management, human resources, administration, scientific research, forestry operations and security.
The vacancies also cover different qualification and experience levels. Some professional and management positions require a National Diploma and several years of relevant experience. Some operational positions require Grade 9, Grade 10 or ABET qualifications and state that no previous experience is required.
This makes the DFFE section relevant to applicants with different career backgrounds. You should still apply only where your qualifications, experience, registration, licence and other stated requirements match the specific vacancy.
Editorial Review
DPSACircular.co.za reviewed the vacancy details against the supplied official government advertisement.
Our review focused on:
- Advertised job titles.
- Number of posts.
- Reference numbers.
- Locations.
- Salary information.
- Qualification requirements.
- Experience requirements.
- Professional registration requirements.
- Driver’s licence requirements.
- Application method.
- Closing date.
- Post-specific duties.
- General application instructions.
The review also separates information contained in the official advertisement from explanatory guidance written by DPSACircular.co.za.
Readers should use the official government advertisement as the final source before submitting an application.
The supplied advertisement states that DFFE is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and that persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
DFFE Vacancies 31 of 2026 Summary
| Advertised position | Posts | Reference | Location | Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Project Manager: Global Environment 8 – Peatlands Restoration and Policy Development | 1 | BC13/2026 | Pretoria | R1,101,468 |
| Deputy Director: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management | 1 | BC18/2026 | Eastern Cape | R1,101,468 |
| Assistant Director: State Forest Management | 1 | FOM62/2026 | Eastern Cape | R605,742 |
| Assistant Director: State Forest Management | 1 | FOM63/2026 | KwaZulu-Natal | R605,742 |
| Assistant Director: Forest Land Management | 1 | FOM61/2026 | Pretoria | R487,197 |
| Assistant Director: Performance Management | 1 | CMS-CT07/2026 | Cape Town | R487,197 |
| Assistant Director: Administration and Coordination | 1 | CFO30/2026 | Pretoria | R487,197 |
| Senior Forester | 1 | FOM49/2026 | Eastern Cape | R413,001 |
| Scientific Technician Production Grade A: Database Admin | 1 | OC25/2026 | Cape Town | R407,337 |
| Scientific Technician Production Grade A: Environmental Interactions Research | 1 | OC24/2026 | Cape Town | R407,337 |
| Forestry Foreman: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management | 1 | BC19/2026 | Eastern Cape | R201,093 |
| Handyman: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management | 1 | BC21/2026 | Eastern Cape | R170,226 |
| Security Officers: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management | 9 | BC07/2026 to BC11/2026 and BC22/2026 | KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape | R170,226 |
| Forestry Services Aid: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management | 1 | BC20/2026 | Eastern Cape | R144,024 |
The table above distinguishes advertised vacancy listings from individual posts. The State Forest Management advertisement contains two posts, while the Security Officer advertisement contains nine posts.
Who Should Apply?
You should consider a DFFE Circular 31 vacancy when your qualifications and experience match the specific advertised requirements.
The opportunities suit:
- Forestry professionals.
- Environmental science graduates and professionals.
- Natural resource management professionals.
- Project management professionals with relevant environmental experience.
- Human resource professionals.
- Public management and public administration professionals.
- Scientific research and technical professionals.
- Applicants with scientific database and programming experience.
- Forestry workers seeking public sector employment.
- Applicants with security experience and the required PSiRA certificate.
- Entry-level applicants who meet the stated school or ABET requirements.
Your application should focus on positions where you satisfy the mandatory requirements.
Who Should Not Apply?
You should avoid applying for a position where you do not meet a mandatory requirement.
Examples include:
- Applying for a post requiring five years of experience when you have less.
- Applying for a scientific position without the required SACNASP registration.
- Applying for a Security Officer post without the required PSiRA certificate.
- Applying for a position requiring a particular qualification when your qualification does not meet the advertised requirement.
- Applying for a position requiring a driver’s licence when you do not hold the required licence.
- Submitting incomplete information on the online Z83.
- Providing inconsistent information between your Z83 and CV.
- Applying after the closing deadline.
DFFE specifically states that failure to complete or disclose required information can result in automatic disqualification.
What the Requirements Mean
Government vacancy advertisements often contain several requirements in one paragraph. You should separate them before deciding whether to apply.
Qualification
The qualification requirement tells you the minimum educational background expected for the position.
For example, the Project Manager position requires a National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Environmental Science, Project Management or a related qualification recognised by SAQA.
Relevant experience
Relevant experience means experience connected to the work described in the advertisement.
The Project Manager position requires at least five years of experience in project management or a relevant field, including three years at entry or junior managerial level.
Professional registration
Some positions require registration with a professional body.
Both Scientific Technician positions require SACNASP registration.
Driver’s licence
Several forestry positions require a valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel.
Applicants should check the exact wording of the vacancy before assuming a licence is optional.
No experience required
A vacancy stating “no experience required” still requires you to meet the qualification and other requirements.
The Forestry Foreman, Handyman, Security Officer and Forestry Services Aid advertisements state that no experience is required, while each has its own minimum education, certification or competency requirements.
DFFE Vacancy Details
Project Manager: Global Environment 8 – Peatlands Restoration and Policy Development
Reference: BC13/2026
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R1,101,468 per annum
Employment type: Five-year fixed-term contract
Minimum qualification: National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Environmental Science, Project Management or a relevant related qualification recognised by SAQA.
Experience: At least five years in project management or a relevant field, including three years at entry or junior managerial level.
The advertisement also asks for experience and knowledge in project or programme management, multidisciplinary project management, internationally funded projects, biodiversity management, wetlands, wetland legislation, biodiversity financing, report writing and financial and procurement administration.
Main duties include project management, establishing the Project Management Unit, supervising staff, coordinating project partners, managing the project budget, preparing financial reports, stakeholder engagement, technical advice, monitoring and reporting.
Deputy Director: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management
Reference: BC18/2026
Location: Eastern Cape
Salary: R1,101,468 per annum, all-inclusive package
Minimum qualification: National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Forestry, Environmental Science, Environmental Management or a related field recognised by SAQA.
Experience: At least five years in indigenous forest, commercial forest or a related field, including three years at entry or junior managerial level.
The position requires knowledge of forestry and environmental legislation, project management, leadership, planning, negotiation, policy development and forest management. A valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel are also required.
Key duties include developing policies and standards for sustainable indigenous forest and woodland management, monitoring regional programmes, conservation planning, forest management planning, ecological monitoring, environmental compliance, rehabilitation, fire management and employee performance management.
Assistant Director: State Forest Management
Reference: FOM62/2026
Location: Eastern Cape
Salary: R605,742 per annum
Assistant Director: State Forest Management
Reference: FOM63/2026
Location: KwaZulu-Natal
Salary: R605,742 per annum
Posts: 2
Minimum qualification: National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Forestry, Natural Resource Management or an equivalent recognised qualification.
Experience: At least three years in forestry management, commercial forestry or a related field.
The positions focus on sustainable forest management, technical forestry support, plantation monitoring, forest growth and yield models, risk mitigation, legislation, stakeholder engagement and forestry development.
The positions also involve support for Expanded Public Works Programme opportunities and participation in provincial forestry forums and development initiatives.
Assistant Director: Forest Land Management
Reference: FOM61/2026
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R487,197 per annum
Minimum qualification: National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Forestry, Natural Sciences or a related recognised qualification.
Experience: At least three years in forestry or a relevant field.
The position deals with state forest land management, land registers, leases, public works developments, servitudes, cessions, land reform matters, rental administration and third-party agreements.
The role also involves resolving issues involving boundaries, land use and access to state forest land.
Assistant Director: Performance Management
Reference: CMS-CT07/2026
Location: Cape Town
Salary: R487,197 per annum
Minimum qualification: National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Human Resource Management, Human Resource Development, Public Management, Industrial Psychology or a related field.
Experience: At least three years in performance management for SMS and non-SMS employees.
The advertisement also refers to experience with PERSAL and Microsoft applications and knowledge of the SMS handbook, incentive framework, Public Service Regulations, Public Service Act, collective agreements and DPSA directives.
Key duties include coordinating performance agreements, moderations, performance management documents, pay progression, merit awards, probation, PMDS databases, training and dispute-resolution processes.
Assistant Director: Administration and Coordination
Reference: CFO30/2026
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R487,197 per annum
Minimum qualification: National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Public Administration or a related qualification.
Experience: At least three years in administration or a relevant field.
The role includes strategic planning support, document management, administrative coordination, meetings, stakeholder communication, parliamentary questions, Cabinet documentation, travel and procurement administration, and support for strategic and performance reports.
Senior Forester
Reference: FOM49/2026
Location: Eastern Cape
Salary: R413,001 per annum
Minimum qualification: National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Forestry, Natural Resources Management or an equivalent recognised qualification.
Experience: At least two years in forestry or a relevant field.
The position involves commercial activities in state forest plantations, operational planning, verification of plantation activities, compliance monitoring, reporting, fire protection, pest and livestock protection, stakeholder engagement and employee supervision.
Scientific Technician Production Grade A: Database Admin
Reference: OC25/2026
Location: Cape Town
Salary: R407,337 per annum
Minimum qualification: National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Science or a related recognised qualification.
Professional registration: SACNASP registration as a certificated natural scientist.
Experience: At least three years of post-qualification technical scientific experience.
The advertisement seeks database, scientific information and programming skills. Knowledge of SQL is required, while Python or MATLAB programming experience is specifically mentioned. Basic HTML, PHP or JavaScript knowledge is an advantage.
Duties include database management, scientific data transformation, software development, data visualisation, technical support, data management, historical dataset digitisation and support for the Marine Information Management System.
Scientific Technician Production Grade A: Environmental Interactions Research
Reference: OC24/2026
Location: Cape Town
Salary: R407,337 per annum
Minimum qualification: National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Biological Science or an equivalent recognised qualification.
Professional registration: SACNASP registration is compulsory.
Experience: Three years of relevant post-qualification technical experience.
The advertisement requires research design and data collection experience and familiarity with data management, quality control, coding, data analysis, marine monitoring equipment and fieldwork.
A small craft skipper’s certificate and commercial diving qualification are listed as added advantages.
The duties involve biological oceanography and climate change research, field surveys, scientific equipment, data management, laboratory activities, research cruises, technical reports and scientific data analysis.
Forestry Foreman: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management
Reference: BC19/2026
Location: Eastern Cape
Salary: R201,093 per annum
Minimum qualification: ABET NQF Level 3 or equivalent.
Experience: No experience required.
The work includes production activities, task allocation, checking seedlings and plants, harvesting, firebreak preparation, plantation maintenance, weed control, watering, fertilising, stocktaking and staff training.
Handyman: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management
Reference: BC21/2026
Location: Eastern Cape
Salary: R170,226 per annum
Minimum qualification: Grade 10 at NQF Level 2 or equivalent.
Experience: No experience required.
The advertisement includes maintenance, cleaning, painting, road and site maintenance, rehabilitation of degraded forest areas, alien plant control, fire management and woodlot activities.
A valid driver’s licence is listed among the requirements.
Security Officers: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management
Posts: 9
Salary: R170,226 per annum
Locations: KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape
References:
- BC07/2026, Weza State Forest, 2 posts.
- BC08/2026, Umzimkhulu State Forest, 1 post.
- BC09/2026, Sokhulu State Forest, 2 posts.
- BC10/2026, Nkwezela State Forest, 2 posts.
- BC11/2026, Mthunzini State Forest, 1 post.
- BC22/2026, Eastern Cape, 1 post.
Minimum qualification: Grade 10 at NQF Level 2 or equivalent.
Certification: PSiRA certificate.
Experience: No experience required.
Duties include access control, visitor management, security patrols, monitoring security equipment, protecting departmental property, emergency procedures, incident recording and support with forest fire management.
Forestry Services Aid: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management
Reference: BC20/2026
Location: Eastern Cape
Salary: R144,024 per annum
Minimum qualification: Grade 9 at NQF Level 1 or equivalent.
Experience: No experience required.
The work includes planting, tree marking, weeding, rehabilitation of degraded areas, conservation work, removal of alien species, fire protection, firefighting equipment maintenance, harvesting and pole production.
Which DFFE Vacancies Require No Experience?
The supplied advertisement states that no experience is required for:
- Forestry Foreman.
- Handyman.
- Security Officers.
- Forestry Services Aid.
These positions still have other mandatory requirements. For example, Security Officer applicants need a PSiRA certificate, while the Forestry Services Aid position requires Grade 9 or equivalent.
Which DFFE Vacancies Require SACNASP Registration?
Two scientific vacancies require SACNASP registration:
- Scientific Technician Production Grade A: Database Admin, reference OC25/2026.
- Scientific Technician Production Grade A: Environmental Interactions Research, reference OC24/2026.
Applicants without the required professional registration should not treat these positions as ordinary science vacancies. Registration is specifically included in the advertised requirements.
Application Method
DFFE requires online applications through its eRecruitment platform.
The advertisement states:
- Complete all sections of the online Z83.
- Attach a detailed CV.
- Include at least three contactable references.
- Disclose all required information.
- Submit before the closing deadline.
- Do not submit late applications.
DFFE states that failure to complete or disclose required information will automatically disqualify the applicant.
[Apply Online Through the Official DFFE eRecruitment Portal]
Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, check:
- You selected the correct DFFE vacancy.
- You recorded the correct reference number.
- You meet the stated qualification requirement.
- You meet the required experience period.
- You checked whether professional registration is compulsory.
- You checked the driver’s licence requirement.
- You completed all sections of the online Z83.
- Your CV contains accurate information.
- Your CV contains at least three contactable references.
- Your employment history is accurate.
- Your qualifications are accurately recorded.
- Your contact details are correct.
- Your application information is consistent.
- Your uploaded documents are readable.
- You reviewed the application before submission.
- You used the official DFFE eRecruitment system.
- You submitted before 14 September 2026 at 16:00.
- You retained proof of submission.
Common Application Mistakes
Applying for the wrong reference number
Several positions have similar job titles. Check the reference number before submitting.
Ignoring the experience requirement
A qualification does not replace a separate experience requirement.
For example, the Project Manager position requires five years of relevant experience, including three years at entry or junior managerial level.
Ignoring professional registration
The two Scientific Technician positions require SACNASP registration.
Leaving the online Z83 incomplete
DFFE specifically states that incomplete disclosure of required information can lead to automatic disqualification.
Using an outdated CV
Review your CV before applying. Ensure your qualifications, employment history, skills and contact references accurately reflect your current information.
Submitting through an unofficial email address
The supplied DFFE advertisement directs applicants to the online eRecruitment system.
Waiting until the final hour
The deadline is 14 September 2026 at 16:00. Submit early enough to deal with login, document-upload or connectivity problems.
Assuming no experience means no other requirements
The lower-level vacancies still specify education, certification, licence or other requirements.
What Happens After You Apply?
DFFE states that shortlisted candidates will undergo screening and security vetting.
The checks include:
- Criminal records.
- Citizenship status.
- Creditworthiness.
- Previous employment and reference checks.
- Qualification verification.
The department also states that shortlisted candidates will undertake two pre-entry assessments. One assessment is practical and the other assesses integrity or ethical conduct.
For SMS positions, the advertisement also contains additional requirements relating to the Senior Management Pre-Entry Programme, managerial competency assessment, security clearance, performance agreements and employment contracts.
DFFE states that correspondence will be limited to successful candidates. The department also states that applicants who have not been contacted within three months after the closing date should accept that their applications were unsuccessful.
Salary Information
The salaries advertised in the DFFE section range from R144,024 to R1,101,468 per annum.
Highest advertised salaries:
- Project Manager: R1,101,468 per annum.
- Deputy Director: R1,101,468 per annum.
Other advertised salaries include:
- Assistant Director: State Forest Management: R605,742.
- Assistant Director positions: R487,197.
- Senior Forester: R413,001.
- Scientific Technician positions: R407,337.
- Forestry Foreman: R201,093.
- Handyman: R170,226.
- Security Officers: R170,226.
- Forestry Services Aid: R144,024.
These figures come from the individual vacancy advertisements. Applicants should read the complete advertisement for the applicable employment conditions and package details.
Important DFFE Application Rules
DFFE’s general advertisement instructions state that shortlisted candidates will later be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, Senior Certificate, identity document and driver’s licence where applicable on or before the interview.
Applicants with foreign qualifications are responsible for having their qualifications evaluated by SAQA.
The department also states that applications are processed in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act and that applicants consent to the processing of personal information for recruitment purposes by submitting the employment application.
How to Choose the Right DFFE Vacancy
Do not choose a vacancy based only on the salary.
Compare these five areas:
1. Qualification
Confirm your qualification matches the stated field and NQF level.
2. Experience
Calculate your relevant experience against the exact period stated.
3. Registration or certification
Check requirements such as SACNASP or PSiRA before starting your application.
4. Location
Consider whether you are prepared to work at the advertised centre.
5. Duties
Read the duties before applying. A position should match your skills and professional interests.
DFFE Vacancies by Career Area
Forestry
Relevant positions include:
- Deputy Director: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management.
- Assistant Director: State Forest Management.
- Assistant Director: Forest Land Management.
- Senior Forester.
- Forestry Foreman.
- Forestry Services Aid.
Science and research
Relevant positions include:
- Scientific Technician: Database Admin.
- Scientific Technician: Environmental Interactions Research.
Administration and human resources
Relevant positions include:
- Assistant Director: Performance Management.
- Assistant Director: Administration and Coordination.
Environmental project management
Relevant position:
- Project Manager: Global Environment 8 – Peatlands Restoration and Policy Development.
Security
Relevant position:
- Security Officers: Woodlands and Indigenous Forest Management.
This grouping is an editorial classification based on the advertised job titles and duties. It does not change the official vacancy categories.
Official Source
The primary source for the vacancy information is Public Service Vacancy Circular 31 of 2026 issued through the Department of Public Service and Administration.
The DFFE advertisement supplied for this article identifies the department under Annexure D and provides the application instructions, closing date, vacancies, requirements and duties.
[View the Official DPSA Circular 31 of 2026]
Applicants should also use the official DFFE eRecruitment system when submitting applications.
[Visit the Official DFFE eRecruitment Portal]
The official government advertisement should take priority over this article if any information changes.
Why DPSACircular.co.za Is Publishing This DFFE Vacancy Guide
DPSACircular.co.za publishes independent government-job information and application guidance for South African job seekers.
This article exists to help readers:
- Find the relevant DFFE vacancies.
- Understand the minimum requirements.
- Compare positions.
- Identify the correct reference number.
- Understand the application process.
- Prepare before using the official application system.
- Avoid common application mistakes.
- Find the original government advertisement.
DPSACircular.co.za does not recruit applicants, process applications or make hiring decisions.
About DPSACircular.co.za
DPSACircular.co.za is an independent South African government-job information and application guidance website.
We publish information about:
- DPSA Vacancy Circulars.
- National government vacancies.
- Provincial government vacancies.
- Internships.
- Learnerships.
- Graduate programmes.
- Bursaries.
- Public sector career opportunities.
- Government job application guidance.
Our purpose is to make public sector employment information easier to understand while directing readers to the relevant official government source.
DPSACircular.co.za is not affiliated with, endorsed by or operated by the Department of Public Service and Administration, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment or any other South African government department.
We do not accept applications and do not participate in recruitment decisions.
Disclaimer
DPSACircular.co.za is an independent government-job information and application guidance website.
DPSACircular.co.za is not a government website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to the South African Government, the Department of Public Service and Administration, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment or any other government department.
We publish vacancy information for informational and application-guidance purposes.
Vacancy requirements, application procedures, closing dates and advertisement status can change. Applicants should always check the complete official government advertisement before submitting an application.
The relevant government department remains responsible for recruitment, shortlisting, interviews, selection and appointment decisions.
DPSACircular.co.za does not guarantee employment and does not influence government recruitment decisions.
Editorial and Update Policy for This Article
This article was prepared using the supplied DFFE government advertisement as the primary vacancy source.
The editorial review checks the advertised position details against the source material.
When a material official change occurs, such as an amendment, withdrawal, revised closing date or changed application procedure, this page should be updated to reflect the new information.
The “Last checked” date identifies the most recent date on which DPSACircular.co.za reviewed the vacancy information.
Readers should always confirm the vacancy status on the official government source before applying.
Related Government Job Guides
Readers who need additional application guidance can also read:
- How to Complete the New Z83 Application Form.
- How to Apply for South African Government Jobs.
- Documents Needed for South African Government Jobs.
- How to Write a CV for Government Jobs.
- Why Government Job Applications Get Rejected.
- How Government Job Shortlisting Works in South Africa.
- What Happens After You Submit a Government Job Application.
- How to Prepare for a South African Government Job Interview.
- How to Verify a South African Government Vacancy.
These internal resources should explain application topics in greater detail without replacing the official vacancy advertisement.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the closing date for DFFE Circular 31 of 2026 vacancies?
The closing date is 14 September 2026 at 16:00. DFFE states that late applications will not be accepted.
2. How do I apply for DFFE vacancies?
DFFE requires applicants to submit applications online through its eRecruitment system.
3. Where do DFFE vacancies appear in Circular 31 of 2026?
The DFFE vacancies appear under Annexure D of Public Service Vacancy Circular 31 of 2026.
4. What must I submit with my DFFE application?
DFFE states that applicants must complete the online Z83 and attach a detailed CV with at least three contactable references.
5. Does DFFE accept late applications?
No. The advertisement states that late applications will not be accepted.
6. Which DFFE vacancy has the highest advertised salary?
The Project Manager and Deputy Director positions each advertise R1,101,468 per annum.
7. Which DFFE vacancies require no previous experience?
The Forestry Foreman, Handyman, Security Officer and Forestry Services Aid advertisements state that no experience is required. Each position has separate minimum requirements.
8. How many Security Officer posts are available?
Nine Security Officer posts are advertised across the listed KwaZulu-Natal state forests and the Eastern Cape.
9. Do the Security Officer vacancies require PSiRA registration?
Yes. The advertisement requires a PSiRA certificate.
10. Do the Scientific Technician vacancies require SACNASP registration?
Yes. SACNASP registration is compulsory for the Database Admin and Environmental Interactions Research positions.
11. What qualification does the Forestry Services Aid vacancy require?
The vacancy requires Grade 9 at NQF Level 1 or an equivalent qualification recognised by SAQA. No experience is required.
12. What is the salary for the Forestry Services Aid position?
The advertised salary is R144,024 per annum.
13. What qualification does the Forestry Foreman vacancy require?
The Forestry Foreman vacancy requires ABET at NQF Level 3 or an equivalent qualification. No experience is required.
14. Does the Handyman vacancy require experience?
No. The advertisement states that no experience is required. Grade 10 at NQF Level 2 or an equivalent qualification is required.
15. How much experience does the Senior Forester vacancy require?
The Senior Forester vacancy requires at least two years of experience in forestry or a relevant field.
16. How much experience is required for the Assistant Director forestry positions?
The Assistant Director: State Forest Management positions require at least three years of experience in forestry management, commercial forestry or a related field.
17. Does the Project Manager vacancy require management experience?
Yes. The advertisement requires five years of project management or relevant experience, including three years at entry or junior managerial level.
18. Does DFFE require certified documents when applying?
DFFE states that shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of specified documents on or before the interview. Applicants should follow the exact instructions in the official advertisement.
19. What happens after DFFE shortlists applicants?
Shortlisted candidates undergo screening and security vetting. DFFE also states that shortlisted candidates undertake a practical assessment and an integrity or ethical conduct assessment.
20. What happens if I do not hear from DFFE after applying?
DFFE states that correspondence will be limited to successful candidates. The advertisement says applicants who have not been contacted within three months after the closing date should accept that their applications were unsuccessful.
About the Author
Godwin Samuel
Godwin Samuel is the founder and publisher of DPSACircular.co.za.
His publishing work focuses on South African government employment information, vacancy research and public sector application guidance.
Through DPSACircular.co.za, he produces original explanations of government vacancies, application requirements, recruitment procedures and career information.
Vacancy articles are reviewed against the relevant government advertisement before publication or update.
The official government advertisement remains the final source for vacancy requirements, closing dates and application instructions.
Article Update Record
Published: 28 August 2026
Last updated: 2 September 2026
Last checked: 2 September 2026
Last reviewed: 2 September 2026
Source reviewed: Public Service Vacancy Circular 31 of 2026, DFFE Annexure D
DFFE advertisement pages reviewed: 15 to 23
Closing date checked: 14 September 2026 at 16:00
Current advertisement status: Open at the time of review
Next update trigger: Official amendment, withdrawal, revised closing date, changed application procedure or other material government update.
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