Certification Forester

Nct Forestry Agricultural Co-Operative Limited; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading forestry marketing organization in Pietermaritzburg is seeking a Certification Forester to maintain supply chain integrity and support certification efforts. The role requires Isizulu and English proficiency, ideally a degree in forestry, and experience in certification or supply chain management. Candidates with strong analytical and communication skills will thrive in this role, which involves frequent travel across the region.

Qualifications

• Isizulu-speaking with a good grasp of Business English (written and spoken) essential.
• Knowledge of the forestry certification environment is highly recommended.
• Experience in forestry certification, supply chain management, or source verification is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct chain of custody audits and investigations.
• Train staff, members, and suppliers on certification standards.
• Develop and revise procedures for FSC and PEFC certification.

Skills

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving mindset

Attention to detail

Education

Tertiary qualification in forestry

Valid Code 8 driver's license

Tools

Microsoft Excel

GIS (ArcGIS / ArcPro)

Job description

Are you passionate about forestry and thrive on building strong relationships within the industry?

NCT, a leading forestry marketing organization in KwaZulu-Natal with a proud history dating back to

With over employees and an annual turnover exceeding R3 billion, NCT is at the forefront of Africa's forestry sector, serving as the preferred market choice for independent timber growers in Southern Africa.

About the Role

As a Certification Forester, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of our chain of custody and supply chain processes.

You will identify and address potential breaches, implement mitigation measures, and support the expansion of NCT's FSC and PEFC certification offerings.

Additionally, you will contribute to the development and enhancement of our Quality Management System (QMS) across all departments and mills.

This role offers the opportunity to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including NCT members, suppliers, and internal teams.

Your ability to communicate effectively, train others, and foster collaboration will be key to your success.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct chain of custody audits, source verification, and transporter tracking to ensure supply chain integrity and compliance with the likes of EUDR and others.
• Investigate alleged breaches and implement corrective actions.
• Train staff, members, and suppliers on NCT's COC procedures and certification standards.
• Develop, revise, and improve procedures to align with FSC and PEFC certification requirements.
• Support the establishment and maintenance of a robust Quality Management System (QMS).
• Conduct internal audits and provide training on QMS protocols.
• Prepare detailed reports and participate in departmental meetings.

What We're Looking For

• South African citizen.
• Isizulu-speaking with a good grasp of Business English (written and spoken) essential.
• Ideally a tertiary qualification in forestry with sound knowledge of forestry operational practice.
• An alternative qualification may be considered based on your particular skill set.
• Knowledge of the forestry certification environment is highly recommended.
• Practical industry experience is a recommendation, but candidates new to forestry with appropriate theoretical knowledge and qualifications will be considered if willing to serve an extended probation period.
• Willingness to learn and study in the appropriate direction (certification).
• Analytical and logical interpretative skills, with the ability to apply these to chain of custody investigations and certification audits.
• Confident and able to engage with others under pressure situations.
• Willing to live and work primarily in Pietermaritzburg (PMB) environment.
• Eager to join a small, dedicated certification team operating within the greater NCT structure.
• Valid Code 8 driver's license and proven record of good driving (incident free).

Additional Skills and Attributes

• At least 3 - 5 years of experience in forestry certification, supply chain management, or source verification (advantageous).
• Clear understanding of forestry processes, especially hardwood pulpwood (Eucalyptus and Acacia).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with GIS (ArcGIS / ArcPro) or plantation mapping / planning is an advantage.
• Membership of Southern African Institute of Forestry (SAIF) is a recommendation.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to collaborate and build relationships across all levels.
• High level of emotional intelligence—critical for fostering collaboration, resolving conflicts, and building relationships.
• Empathy, attention to detail, and a constructive, solutions-driven mindset.

Location and Travel

This position is based at our Pietermaritzburg Head Office, with frequent travel required across the region.