Forestry Operations Supervisor

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a diligent Forestry Operations Supervisor to oversee timber harvesting, silviculture, and forest management in Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA. This field-based role requires proactive leadership to ensure safe and sustainable practices and timely production.

You will direct crews, manage equipment, monitor progress, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company policies while maximizing timber yields and forest health.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in forestry operations or supervisory roles.
• Knowledge of timber harvesting techniques, silviculture, and forest management.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations in forestry.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to motivate teams in a field environment.
• Experience with forestry equipment operation and maintenance.
• Accurate record-keeping and reporting.
• Willingness to work in Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct daily forestry operations, including timber harvesting, reforestation, and site maintenance.
• Ensure operations safety, health regulations and company protocols.
• Manage field crews with clear instructions and guidance.
• Monitor progress of harvesting and silviculture activities, ensuring efficiency and adherence to plans.
• Oversee maintenance and proper use of forestry equipment and machinery.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, sustainable forestry standards, and permitting requirements.
• Conduct regular site inspections and quality control checks.
• Maintain accurate records of operational activities, production volumes, and resource usage.
• Collaborate with foresters and stakeholders to implement long-term forest management plans.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team management

Safety compliance

Record-keeping

Education

Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Forestry / related field

Tools

Forestry equipment operation

Machinery maintenance

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a diligent and experienced Forestry Operations Supervisor to oversee and manage timber harvesting, silviculture, and forest management activities in the **Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA** region. This role demands a proactive leader capable of ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable forestry practices. The Forestry Operations Supervisor will be responsible for directing crews, managing equipment, monitoring operational progress, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and company policies. This is a field-based position requiring a strong understanding of forestry principles, excellent leadership skills, and a commitment to operational excellence. You will play a key role in maximizing timber yields while preserving the health and biodiversity of the forest ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct daily forestry operations, including timber harvesting, reforestation, and site maintenance.
• Ensure all operations are conducted safely, adhering to health and safety regulations and company protocols.
• Manage and coordinate field crews, providing clear instructions and guidance.
• Monitor the progress of harvesting and silviculture activities, ensuring efficiency and adherence to plans.
• Oversee the maintenance and proper use of forestry equipment and machinery.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, sustainable forestry standards, and permitting requirements.
• Conduct regular site inspections and quality control checks.
• Maintain accurate records of operational activities, production volumes, and resource usage.
• Collaborate with foresters and other stakeholders to implement long‑term forest management plans.

Requirements

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in forestry operations or a supervisory role within the forestry sector.
• Proven knowledge of timber harvesting techniques, silviculture practices, and forest management principles.
• Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations in forestry.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage and motivate teams in a field environment.
• Experience with forestry equipment and machinery operation and maintenance.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic reporting.
• Must be willing to work in **Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA**, and surrounding forest areas.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, potential for bonuses based on operational performance, and a comprehensive benefits package. This is a permanent, on‑site position critical to the success of our forestry operations in the **Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA** region. Join a company dedicated to responsible resource management and sustainable forestry practices. We provide opportunities for professional growth and development within the organization.