Legal Administration Officer – Pretoria – Department Of Forestry, Fisheries And The Environment

Legal Administration Officer at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment in Pretoria, a crucial 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 skilled Legal Administration Officer (MR5) to join their dynamic team in Pretoria. This pivotal role focuses on coordinating and administering appeals related to mining, specifically concerning Oceans and Coasts. By ensuring that appeals are processed efficiently and in accordance with relevant legislation, you will play a crucial part in safeguarding our natural resources and promoting public trust in government operations. This role not only impacts the environment but also supports the community by ensuring that legal processes are transparent and fair.

In this position, you will be at the forefront of handling appeals from various stakeholders, including appellants and applicants. You will convene meetings to discuss appeals and provide critical legal support throughout the process. Your expertise will help ensure that all appeals are addressed thoroughly and in a timely manner, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the public service in South Africa.

About the Department

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is dedicated to the sustainable management of South Africa’s natural resources. This department plays a vital role in implementing policies and regulations that protect our environment, ensuring that both present and future generations can enjoy its benefits. Working here means being part of a mission that prioritizes environmental conservation and public service, making a tangible difference in the lives of South Africans.

What You’ll Do

  • Coordinate and administer appeals in accordance with relevant legislation and guidelines.
  • Address all appeals-related queries from stakeholders including appellants and applicants.
  • Convene and facilitate appeals committee meetings to discuss complex appeals.
  • Ensure compliance with internal filing policies by attending to the filing of finalized appeals.
  • Draft ministerial submissions and appeal decisions specifically related to oceans and coastal issues.
  • Prepare briefing notes for the Minister concerning appeals.
  • Provide general legal support and assist in litigation regarding appeals matters.

What You’ll Need

  • An LLB Degree or a relevant qualification recognized by SAQA.
  • A minimum of eight (8) years’ experience post-qualification in a related field.
  • Comprehensive understanding of law administration and departmental procedures.
  • Strong knowledge of strategic coordination, policy development, risk management, and audit procedures.
  • Excellent skills in project management, research methodologies, and professional writing.
  • Ability to effectively gather and analyze information, adhering to strict timelines.
  • Strong conflict resolution skills and the ability to work with diverse stakeholders.
  • A valid driver’s license is required.

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.

Requirements

LLB Degree or relevant qualification as recognised by SAQA.

A minimum of eight (8) years’ experience post qualification within the relevant field.

An extensive understanding of law administration, Public Services and Departmental procedures.

Applicant must have a broad knowledge of strategic coordination, policy development, risk management and audit procedures.

Understand the facilitation of project management, research methodologies and presentation.

Have good reporting / professional writing, policy formulation and negotiation skills.

Ability to gather and analyse information, and adherence to timelines is essential.

Ability to work with difficult people and to resolve conflicts.

The incumbent must have a valid driver’s license.

Job Duties

Coordinate and administer appeals in terms of the relevant legislation and guidelines, with a specific focus on Oceans and Coasts-related appeals.

Receive and respond to all appeals-related queries from stakeholders, including the appellants and applicants.

Convene the appeals committee meeting to discuss the appeals, depending on the complexity of the appeal.

Attend the filing of finalised appeals in terms of internal filing policies and guidelines.

Coordinate and administer permitting appeals.

Draft ministerial submission and appeal decisions in respect of oceans and coastal appeals.

Ensure that all grounds of appeal, responding statements and line function comment to be captured in a logical sequence in appeal decision.

Prepare briefing notes for the Minister on appeals.

Provide general legal support.

Provide support to litigation on appeals matters by attending consultations with counsel and compile record.

Salary

R464 634 per annum, (OSD)

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered. Do not submit duplicate applications. If applying for multiple posts, submit separate applications for each post. Due to high volumes, the Department will not acknowledge receipt of applications. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not heard from us within 3 months, please consider your application to be unsuccessful. Should, during any stage of the recruitment process, a moratorium be placed on the filling of posts or the Department is affected by any process such as, but not limited to, restructuring or reorganisation of posts, the Department reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process and re-advertise the post at any time in the future. Important: DOA is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting representivity and affirmative action. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates. The Department reserves the right not to fill vacancies. By applying you consent to the collection and processing of your personal information for recruitment purposes. Shortlisted candidates will be required to be available for assessments and interviews at a date and time as determined by the Department. Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, security vetting and reference checks (including social media profiles). Applications must declare any pending criminal, disciplinary or any other allegations or investigations. Successful candidates must pass security clearance, sign an employment contract, sign an annual performance agreement and disclose financial interests. All applicants are required to declare any conflict or perceived conflict of interest, to disclose memberships of Boards and directorships that they may be associated with. Failure to disclose relevant information may result in disqualification or termination. OTHER POSTS For Enquiries: Ms H Van Schalkwyk / Ms F Patal Tel No: (012) 399 8835 / 9330