Forestry Operations Manager - Sustainable Timber Production

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary with performancebon

Company vehicle and fuel allowance

Health insurance and retirement plans

Professional development through培训

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria is seeking an experienced Forestry Operations Manager to oversee sustainable forest resources in a hybrid role. The position combines on-site supervision of field activities with remote planning, reporting, and strategic decision‑making to optimize production and conservation.

Responsibilities include long‑term planning, silviculture, inventories, budgets, and ensuring compliance with environmental laws and FSC/PEFC standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Environmental Science, or related discipline.
• Minimum 6 years of forest management and operations experience.
• Proven timber harvesting planning and execution experience.
• Strong understanding of forest ecology, silviculture, conservation principles.
• Experience with forest inventory techniques, GIS and relevant software.
• Excellent knowledge of environmental regulations and sustainable forestry certifications (FSC, PEFC).
• Excellent communication, negotiation and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term forest management plans, including sustainable harvesting schedules and reforestation strategies.
• Oversee all aspects of timber harvesting operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with environmental regulations.
• Manage and supervise field crews, contractors, and equipment operators.
• Conduct forest inventories, growth and yield assessments, and health monitoring.
• Implement silvicultural practices such as planting, thinning, and site preparation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental laws, permits, and sustainability certifications.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, track costs, and optimize resource allocation.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners, including government agencies and community groups.
• Utilize technology and data analysis to monitor forest health, operational performance, and environmental impact.
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to all safety protocols and procedures.

Skills

Team leadership

Budget management

Communication

Problem solving

Environmental compliance

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Environmental Science, or related discipline

Tools

GIS

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the sustainable timber industry, is seeking an experienced Forestry Operations Manager for their operations based in Pretoria. This is a hybrid role, requiring a mix of on-site supervision of forest management activities and remote planning, reporting, and strategic decision-making. The successful candidate will be responsible for the efficient and sustainable management of forest resources, including planning, harvesting, reforestation, and conservation efforts. This position demands a strong understanding of forest ecology, timber harvesting techniques, environmental regulations, and effective team leadership. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term health and productivity of the forests while meeting production targets and adhering to stringent sustainability standards. The ideal candidate possesses a blend of technical forestry expertise, logistical planning capabilities, and a commitment to environmental best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term forest management plans, including sustainable harvesting schedules and reforestation strategies.
• Oversee all aspects of timber harvesting operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with environmental regulations.
• Manage and supervise field crews, contractors, and equipment operators.
• Conduct forest inventories, growth and yield assessments, and health monitoring.
• Implement silvicultural practices such as planting, thinning, and site preparation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental laws, permits, and sustainability certifications.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, track costs, and optimize resource allocation.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners, including government agencies and community groups.
• Utilize technology and data analysis to monitor forest health, operational performance, and environmental impact.
• Promote a strong safety culture and ensure adherence to all safety protocols and procedures.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in forest management and operations, with a focus on sustainable practices.
• Proven experience in timber harvesting planning and execution.
• Strong understanding of forest ecology, silviculture, and conservation principles.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and contractors effectively.
• Experience with forest inventory techniques, GIS, and relevant software.
• Excellent knowledge of environmental regulations and sustainable forestry certifications (e.g., FSC, PEFC).
• Strong financial acumen and budget management skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to various operational sites.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary package with potential for performance-based bonuses.
• A company vehicle and fuel allowance are provided.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plans are included.
• Opportunities for professional development through industry training and conferences are encouraged.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility, balancing field operations with office-based planning.
• Generous paid annual leave is offered.
• Our client is committed to fostering a safe and sustainable working environment.