Assistant Director: Youth Graduates and Contractor Development

About the role

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is hiring an Assistant Director: Youth Graduates and Contractor Development, based in Pretoria. This is a contract post, paying R487,197 a year. How to apply: All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/ Reference number to quote: EP22/2026 Closing date: 19 October 2026, 16:00. No late applications will be accepted Use the new Z83 form and attach a detailed CV.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the planning and implementation of youth graduate and contractor development initiatives.
• Support the development of emerging enterprises through skills and business enhancement initiatives for sustainability.
• Initiate and support the development and implementation of the procurement plan for youth graduate and contractor development initiatives.
• Coordinate project compliance with EPWP prescripts.
• Verify monthly progress reports and supporting evidence.
• Evaluate invoices for payment purposes.
• Maintain project records and manage the reporting of youth graduate and contractor development projects.
• Facilitate the development and review of youth and contractor development strategy, implementation plans and reporting tools Provide support on youth career pathing initiatives by conducting career guidance workshops and training for youth graduates’ programmes.
• Participate in internal and external youth forums.
• Facilitate the establishment and management of partnerships with external stakeholders, including NYDA, Municipalities, Public Entities, SETAs, QTCO and other relevant government departments.
• Draft Memoranda of Understanding MoUs and Memoranda of Agreements (MoAs) and lead the vetting process.
• Manage partnership agreements and ensure projects alignment with National Development Goals.

Requirements

• National Diploma (NQF6) in Training and Development, Developmental Studies or a relevant qualification as recognised by SAQA.
• At least 3 years’ experience in Education, Training and Development (ETD) or a relevant field.
• Knowledge and understanding of Skills Development Act, National Youth Policy, National Development Plans, Employment Equity Environmental Legislation.
• Knowledge of Expanded Public Works Programmes (EPWP), Integrated sustainable rural development and urban renewal programmes.
• Have experience in financial, project/programme and personnel management.
• Knowledge and understanding of project planning, implementation, monitoring, reporting and compliance.
• Skills in leadership, coordination and project management, communication (written and verbal), listening, report writing and decision-making.
• Ability to develop and apply policies, establish and maintain interpersonal relationships, work independently and as part of a team.
• Manage and resolve conflict.
• An applicant must further possess personal attributes such as being innovative and proactive, demonstrating initiative, being responsible and loyal, having ability to work under extreme pressure, ability to work long hours when required, and ability to gather, analyse and interpret information and reports.