Job Openings at Forestry Department
Job Openings at Forestry Department
The position requires an undergraduate qualification in Natural or Physical Sciences, Environmental Development Planning, or a relevant qualification at NQF 7. Candidates must have at least 5 years of experience at a Middle or Senior Managerial level within the related field. Completion of the Public Service Senior Management Leadership Programme is also required. The role demands knowledge of environmental issues across various scales, competence in air quality management policy development, and financial management. Proficiency in developing and applying policies, as well as an understanding of HR management and legal issues, are important. Skills in project management, stakeholder engagement, and change management are essential .
The Senior Management Pre-Entry Programme is a mandatory requirement introduced to strengthen the leadership and management capabilities of individuals before assuming senior management positions in the public service. It ensures candidates possess the necessary skills and competencies to effectively handle senior management roles, thereby promoting efficient public service delivery. Successful completion of this program is crucial for validating a candidate’s preparedness and suitability for advanced managerial responsibilities .
Shortlisted candidates must complete a technical exercise to test relevant technical elements of the job. They are also expected to submit proof of successful completion of the Senior Management Pre-Entry Programme endorsed by the National School of Government. Additionally, they will undergo a managerial competency assessment as per the DPSA Directive. The successful candidate is required to undergo security clearance and sign a performance agreement and employment contract .
Duties include promoting healthy lifestyles through sports, nutrition, and fitness programs; providing proactive information on financial wellness and resilience; circulating wellness management articles; conducting assessments, counseling, and referral services for employees. The role involves implementing education sessions on HIV, TB, and STI, coordinating Wellness Champion meetings, facilitating World AIDS Day events, and implementing a Health and Productivity Management program. The practitioner is responsible for coordinating blood donation services, wellness clinics, and providing logistical support for Health and Wellness events .
The selection process involves screening and security vetting of shortlisted candidates to assess their suitability. This includes checks on criminal records, citizenship status, creditworthiness, previous employment, and verification of qualifications. Moreover, candidates for SMS posts must undergo a technical exercise and a competency-based assessment, ensuring only suitable candidates are recommended for final consideration. These steps ensure that appointed individuals align with the Department's standards and legal requirements .
Responsibilities include providing strategic leadership to the project team, acting as the national representative at regional and international levels, and ensuring project obligations are fulfilled. The Project Manager must also coordinate stakeholder engagement, ensure effective communication, and oversee public relations for the project. They manage inputs from partners, monitor project progress, and ensure that UNEP/GEF norms for monitoring and evaluation are applied. Serving as Executive Secretary to the PSC and supporting the coordination of project implementation are also key duties .
The program includes initiatives for promoting healthy lifestyles through sports, nutrition, and fitness programs. It provides proactive information on financial wellness and resilience, and conducts workshops for retirement preparation. Educational and awareness sessions on HIV, TB, and STI are also integral parts of the initiative. Additionally, the program involves commemorating World AIDS Day and managing health screenings and wellness clinics .
Stakeholder engagement is crucial as it ensures high-level buy-in from policy and strategic partners, facilitating smooth execution of the project. Effective communication and coordination with stakeholders at multiple levels help in aligning project activities with regional and international goals. Active engagement with different institutions ensures that activities are completed successfully and project objectives are met. This collaboration promotes transparency and inclusion, critical for managing potential conflicts and ensuring sustainability .
The Department promotes itself as an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, meaning it gives preferential consideration to applicants from underrepresented designated groups, aligning with its equity plan. Persons with disabilities are also encouraged to apply. The intention behind these practices is to ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the demographics of the community it serves. By implementing such measures, the Department aims to achieve a balanced representation in its workforce .
The position requires skills in leadership and management, organizational planning, innovation, and proactiveness. The candidate should have strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work independently and in a team. Conflict management and resolution skills are important, along with the ability to gather and analyze information. Additionally, candidates must be competent in financial and procurement administrative procedures, project/program management, and have experience in monitoring and evaluating internationally funded projects .