Forestry Service Aid: The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is inviting applications for the position of Forestry Service Aid: Woodlands Indigenous Forest Management at Mzimkhulu Estate in KwaZulu-Natal. This opportunity is suitable for candidates who have Grade 9 or an ABET Level 1 or 2 Certificate and are interested in forestry, tree planting, forest conservation, and environmental management.
The successful candidate will assist with forestry operations, rehabilitation of degraded land, fire prevention, tree maintenance, harvesting activities, and the protection of indigenous forests.
Table of Contents
Job Details
| Job Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Department | Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) |
| Job Title | Forestry Service Aid: Woodlands Indigenous Forest Management |
| Reference Number | BC16/2026 |
| Post Number | 36/34 |
| Location | Mzimkhulu Estate, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Salary | R144,024 per annum |
| Minimum Qualification | Grade 9 or ABET Level 1 or 2 Certificate |
| Job Category | Forestry, Conservation and Environmental Management |
| Closing Date | 26 October 2026 at 16:00 |
| Application Method | Online application |
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Grade 9 or an ABET Level 1 or 2 Certificate.
- Knowledge of tree planting, firefighting, and coppice reduction.
- Good communication, interpersonal, and listening skills.
- Ability to plan and carry out assigned duties.
- Ability to work effectively in a team.
- Self-discipline and a willingness to accept responsibility.
- Good interpersonal relations and a responsible approach to work.
Candidates interested in forestry and environmental conservation should demonstrate a willingness to perform practical outdoor duties.
Duties and Responsibilities
The successful applicant will assist with various forestry and indigenous forest management activities, including the following:
1. Forestry and Silviculture Operations
- Perform silviculture activities in plantations and indigenous forests.
- Assist with tree planting, weeding and general forest maintenance.
- Mark plots and count and mark trees.
- Carry out coppice reduction where required.
- Update registers and maintain accurate work records.
2. Forest Conservation and Rehabilitation
- Help rehabilitate degraded sites.
- Maintain conservation zones.
- Remove alien invasive plant species.
- Assist with controlling pests and weed infestations.
- Protect forest infrastructure and surrounding natural resources.
3. Fire Protection and Suppression
- Participate in forest fire prevention activities.
- Assist with firefighting and fire suppression when required.
- Help protect plantations, indigenous forests and infrastructure against fire damage.
4. Harvesting and Pole Production
- Conduct log marking and pole measuring.
- Assist with cutting, drying and treating poles.
- Support the production and processing of poles.
- Provide assistance with selling poles when required.
5. Plant Propagation and Record-Keeping
- Assist with propagating plants and trees.
- Maintain records relating to plants and trees.
- Complete registers and other documents related to forestry operations.
Salary and Benefits
The advertised salary is R144,024 per annum. This is the stated annual salary, and applicants should consult the official recruitment advertisement for any additional employment conditions or benefits.
How to Apply for Forestry Service Aid Jobs
Applications must be submitted online through the official Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment recruitment portal.
Official application link: PUBLIC SERVICE VACANCY CIRCULAR 36 OF 2026
Follow these steps to apply:
- Open the official DFFE eRecruitment website.
- Find the vacancy for Forestry Service Aid: Woodlands Indigenous Forest Management.
- Confirm that the reference number is BC16/2026.
- Complete all required sections of the online Z83 application form.
- Attach a detailed and updated CV containing at least three contactable references.
- Review your information and submit your application before the deadline.
Ensure that your application is complete and that all required information has been provided. Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Documents Required when applying for Forestry Service Aid
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- A completed online Z83 application form.
- A detailed and updated CV.
- At least three contactable references.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to provide certified copies of their qualifications, identity document and driver’s licence, where applicable, on or before the interview date. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Closing Date
The closing date for the Forestry Service Aid: Woodlands Indigenous Forest Management vacancy is 26 October 2026 at 16:00.
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum qualification required?
Grade 9 or an ABET Level 1 or 2 Certificate.
2. Where is the position based?
Mzimkhulu Estate, KwaZulu-Natal.
3. How much does the job pay?
The advertised salary is R144,024 per annum.
4. What is the reference number?
The reference number is BC16/2026.
5. How do I apply?
Apply online through the official DFFE recruitment portal at https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/.
6. When is the closing date?
Applications close on 26 October 2026 at 16:00.
Conclusion
The Forestry Service Aid: Woodlands Indigenous Forest Management vacancy offers an opportunity for suitably qualified candidates to work in forestry, indigenous forest conservation and environmental management. Applicants who meet the minimum requirements should prepare a detailed CV, complete the online Z83 form and submit their applications through the official DFFE recruitment portal before the closing date.
Always verify the vacancy details and submit your application through the official recruitment website. No late applications will be accepted.
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