Deputy Director: Monitoring & Surveillance

About the role

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is hiring a Deputy Director: Monitoring & Surveillance, based in Cape Town. This is a permanent post, paying R1,101,468 a year. How to apply: All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/ For attention: Human Resource Management Reference number to quote: FIM36/2026 Closing date: 23 November 2026, 16:00. No late applications will be accepted. Use the new Z83 form and attach a detailed CV.

Responsibilities

• Manage, plan, coordinate and execute compliance and enforcement measures.
• Ensure the selection of targeted right holders to be investigated in the 6 key fisheries sectors.
• Ensure proper reporting on complete investigations to the Chief Directorate.
• Manage land, sea and air boarder inspections to promote awareness and compliance with the Marine Living Resources Act (MLRA).
• Identify priority sea, land and ports of entry and exits.
• Create awareness and sensitize stakeholders and role-players toward the protection and sustainable use of marine living resources.
• Manage, plan, coordinate and execute compliance and enforcement measures through the execution of antipoaching operations.
• Also consult with relevant role-players and stakeholders to facilitate proper planning of operations.
• Ensure and facilitate logistical arrangements, submissions and approvals.
• Ensure proper reporting.
• Manage enforcement efforts and reporting.
• Ensure that cases and J534 fines in terms of infringements of the Marine Living Resources Act (MLRA) and other relevant marine related legislations are documented correctly.
• Intervene in matters/cases of National and International importance by providing enforcement expertise and support.

Requirements

• National Diploma (NQF6) in Natural Science, Law Enforcement or relevant qualification within the related field as recognised by SAQA.
• At least 5 years’ experience in Law Enforcement, administration and management or relevant field of which 3 years should be at an entry/junior managerial level (Assistant Director level or equivalent).
• Knowledge of the National Constitution, MLRA and Regulations (Act 18/98), South African Maritime Safety Authority Act: Act 5 of 1998, Environmental Management Act.
• Knowledge of International Agreements and Conventions UNCLOS, SADC and Regional Fisheries Management Organisations CCAMLR, IOTC, ICCAT, CCSBT.
• Skills
• Project Management, Conflict resolution and Communication skills (written and verbal)
• Leadership skills (visionary/operational), Planning and Execution skills and Delegations and empowerment
• Ability to work long hours voluntarily
• Be able to gather and analyse information, Ability to develop and apply policies
• Ability to work under extreme pressure
• Ability to work with difficult persons and resolve conflict
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Supervisory experience
• A valid driving license