Assistant Director: Sustainable Forest Management at Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

Requirements & Qualifications

• National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Forestry or Natural Science or relevant qualification within the related field as recognized by SAQA. A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in Forestry or a related field.
• Knowledge of the National Forests Act, 1998 (Act No 84 of 1998) (NFA) and other environmental legislations. Knowledge in the regulation of natural resources. Knowledge of Environmental Legislation and policies impacting on the forestry sector.
• Knowledge of government administrative procedures (PFMA and Treasury. Stakeholder Engagement. A valid Driving license and willingness to travel.

Duties

• Administer, implement, monitor and enforce the provisions of the National Forests Act (NFA), 1998 (Act No. 84 of 1998). Review, amend and develop NFA policies, strategies, guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Provide technical advice in the processing of licenses for protected trees, state forests and natural forests.
• Review and comment on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports and other specialist re-ports for development impacting forests and protected tree species. Review and adjust Forestry Tariffs for forest products and services annually in compliance with Treasury Regulations.
• Promote compliance and conduct enforcement regarding the NFA and undertake the relevant administrative or criminal enforcement measures for NFA transgressions. Liaise with Directorate of Legal Services and State Law Advisor regarding le-gal opinions and interpretation of provisions of the Act. Provide support on Parliamentary and media queries. Compile monthly, quarterly and annual reports for the Directorate.
• Raise the Forestry Profile by participating in Environmental Forums and conducting capacity building programmes such as NFA training to various stakeholders including the SAPS, Judiciary, Magistrate and Prosecutors and State Organs. Facilitation of the Appointment of Forest Officers. Provide inputs to documents and technical advice to Organs of State and other stakeholders on the provisions of the Act.

Candidate Profile

• Strategic Capability and Leadership. People Management and Empowerment. Good interpersonal relations skills.
• Good Communication skills. Ability to work under pressure and handle criticism. Ability to gather and analyse information.
• Ability to negotiate in difficult situations and to resolve conflict. The incumbent will be subjected to appointment as Forest Officer (Forest Peace Officer)