Assistant Director: Climate Change Management – Pretoria – Department Of Forestry, Fisheries And The Environment

Assistant Director: Climate Change Management in Pretoria with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, a rewarding government job in South Africa

Published 12 October 2026
Closing Date Closed
Location
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is seeking a dedicated Assistant Director: Climate Change Management based at their Head Office in Pretoria. This pivotal role involves coordinating the development and implementation of essential environmental management plans and climate change policies. In a time when climate action is crucial, the Assistant Director will play a vital part in shaping initiatives that aim to mitigate climate change impacts and promote sustainable development across South Africa. By contributing to low carbon development in the energy sector, you will help ensure a healthier environment for all South Africans.

This position is significant not only for its direct influence on national policies but also for its broader implications on community well-being and ecological integrity. The Assistant Director will engage in both national and international policy discussions, representing the Department’s commitment to combating climate change and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Working in this role means actively participating in the public service’s mission to create a sustainable future for generations to come.

About the Department

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is responsible for protecting South Africa’s natural resources and promoting sustainable practices. With a focus on climate change mitigation and adaptation, the department’s mission encompasses ensuring environmental compliance and safeguarding biodiversity. Working here means being part of a team that is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of South Africans and the preservation of the country’s unique ecosystems.

What You’ll Do

  • Coordinate the development and implementation of environmental management plans and climate change policies.
  • Monitor compliance with environmental management systems and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Provide support and advice on mitigation interventions that promote low carbon development in the energy sector.
  • Represent the Department in national and international discussions on climate change and environmental compliance.
  • Develop analytical support for policy briefs related to renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate change.
  • Manage integration with national climate change response policies and other environmental policies.
  • Contribute to the development of educational outreach programs on climate change and environmental compliance.
  • Engage in managerial activities to support team operations and initiatives.

What You’ll Need

  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Natural Sciences or Environmental Sciences at NQF Level 7, recognized by SAQA.
  • 3-4 years of experience in energy or environmental sectors, with specialization in sustainable development.
  • Strong knowledge of national policies on climate change mitigation and adaptation, along with relevant environmental conventions and protocols.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong analytical and interpretation abilities.
  • Detail-oriented, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities.
  • Proficient in computer literacy, report writing, and presentation skills.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities and conflict management skills.

How to Apply

Please follow the application instructions below to submit your application.

Requirements

An appropriate Bachelor of Science Degree in Natural Sciences or Environmental Sciences at NQF Level 7 recognised by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA), Plus 3-4 years’ experience in energy and specialization in environment, energy or sustainable development.

Knowledge of: All relevant national policies on climate change mitigation and adaptation, energy and environment.

Environmental conventions and protocols.

Knowledge on processes of environmental conventions, including the ratification on environmental treaties by South Africa.

National legislation and Acts on climate change, energy and environment.

Skills: Excellent written and oral communication skills, Analytical and interpretation skills, Detail- oriented ability to prioritise and multitask, Computer literacy, Presentation skills, Report Writing and Interpersonal skills.

Thinking Demands: Factual oriented, ability to make informed decision quickly, Problem Solving, Conflict management.

Job Duties

Coordinate the development and implementation of Environmental management plan and climate change policies, environmental management system to monitor compliance with environmental management plans and policies, including the Green House Gas emissions.

Provide support and advice on mitigation interventions that support low carbon development in the energy sectors including Carbon Budgets.

Represent the Department in external policy settings, nationally and internationally on climate change and environmental compliance.

Provide analytical support for policy briefs related to renewable energy, energy efficiency and climate change and environment.

10 Manage the integration with the national climate change response policy and other related environmental policies.

Develop or contribute to the development of educational or outreach programs on climate change and environmental compliance.

Provide support and advice on mitigation interventions that supports low carbon development in the energy sector including carbon budget.

Provide managerial activities.

Salary

R605 742 per annum (Level 10)

How to Apply

Email to [email protected] For Enquiries: Mr Thebe Mamakoko Tel No: (012) 406 7679