Director: Sustainable Resource Management – Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
The Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (FSDARD) is inviting applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates for the position of Director: Sustainable Resource Management. This senior management role is suited to professionals with expertise in natural resource management, engineering, or land use planning who are passionate about promoting sustainable land management and environmental stewardship.
Job Overview:
- Location: Glen, Bloemfontein, Free State
- Job Type: Permanent
- Reference Number: DIR/SRM
- Closing Date: 07 August 2026
Salary
The successful candidate will receive a remuneration package of R1 317 384 per annum (Level 13). The package includes:
- Government Employees Pension Fund contribution
- 13th cheque
- Motor vehicle allowance
- Homeowners’ allowance
- Medical aid assistance
- Other benefits as determined by government policy
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Managing the provision of engineering services within the Directorate.
- Promoting sustainable LandCare initiatives and responsible land use management.
- Leading the implementation of sustainable land use and natural resource management programmes.
- Managing the Agricultural Risk and Disaster Management Plan.
- Overseeing the Directorate’s human, financial and operational resources.
- Providing strategic input into provincial policies relating to sustainable resource management.
- Building partnerships with stakeholders to improve service delivery.
- Advising the Chief Director: Agricultural Development Support on strategic matters.
- Contributing to the development of the Department’s five-year Strategic Plan, Annual Performance Plan (APP), and Operational Plan.
- Monitoring the implementation of Sustainable Resource Management programmes and submitting monthly, quarterly and annual performance reports.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- An appropriate NQF Level 7 qualification in:
- Engineering
- Natural Resource Management
- Land Use Planning
- A minimum of 5 years’ experience at middle or senior management level in a sustainable or natural resource management environment.
- A valid Code B driver’s licence.
- A completed Nyukela SMS Pre-Entry Certificate prior to appointment.
Required Knowledge and Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate knowledge of:
- Sustainable resource management legislation, policies and frameworks.
- Environmental and land use management principles.
- Agricultural risk and disaster management.
- Policy development and implementation.
- Strategic planning and programme management.
- Financial and people management.
- Service delivery and stakeholder engagement.
- Leadership, problem-solving and decision-making.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Legislation interpretation, coordination and monitoring.
How to Apply
Applications must include:
- A completed new Z83 Application Form.
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Applications can be submitted:
By Email: recruitment@dard.gov.za
Or Hand Deliver To:
Mrs S Hlekiso
Room 228, 2nd Floor
Administration Building
Glen, Bloemfontein
Or Post To:
Mrs S Hlekiso
Private Bag X02
Bloemfontein
9301
Important: Only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, identity documents, driver’s licence and other supporting documents before the interview.
Important Information
- Closing Date: 07 August 2026
- Quote the reference number DIR/SRM on your application.
- Separate applications must be submitted for each vacancy.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Shortlisted candidates will undergo competency assessments, integrity checks, security vetting and reference checks.
- Appointment is subject to the successful completion of the Nyukela SMS Pre-Entry Programme.
- Preference will be given in accordance with the Department’s Employment Equity objectives.
Enquiries
For enquiries, contact Ms T. Mokone on 064 063 6708.
If you have not received feedback within four months after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Also see: Director: Bloemfontein, Free State x1