Forestry Operations Supervisor - Timber Harvesting

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance incentives

Company vehicles

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Forestry Operations Supervisor to oversee timber harvesting near Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on safe, efficient harvesting, team leadership, and logistics coordination to meet production targets and regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years in forest harvesting with supervisory experience, plus a strong safety and environmental stewardship mindset. This hands-on role requires field leadership and on-site decision making.

Qualifications

• Relevant forestry qualification or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 5 years in forest harvesting operations, with at least 2 years in supervision.
• Proven knowledge of timber harvesting techniques, equipment operation and maintenance.
• Strong understanding of forestry regulations, enviromental practices and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily timber harvesting activities, ensuring adherence to schedules and quotas.
• Lead forestry workers and machine operators, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Enforce strict safety protocols on all harvesting sites.
• Monitor machinery performance and coordinate maintenance and repairs.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Safety compliance

Communication

Education

Forestry/Forest Management qualification

Tools

Machinery operation

Record-keeping software

GPS basics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the Agriculture & Forestry sector, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Forestry Operations Supervisor to oversee timber harvesting operations near Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is essential for ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable harvesting practices, managing operational teams, and coordinating logistics for timber extraction. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in forestry management, practical experience with harvesting machinery, and a strong commitment to safety protocols and environmental stewardship. This is a hands-on position that requires leadership on the ground, ensuring that production targets are met while adhering to strict regulatory and ecological standards. Located in the industrial heartland of KwaZulu-Natal , this role offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to manage significant forestry resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise daily timber harvesting activities, ensuring adherence to planned schedules and quotas.
• Manage and lead teams of forestry workers and machine operators, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Implement and enforce stringent safety protocols and procedures on all harvesting sites.
• Monitor the performance of harvesting machinery and equipment, coordinating maintenance and repairs as needed.
• Oversee the efficient extraction and transportation of timber from harvesting sites to processing facilities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant forestry regulations, environmental protection laws, and company policies.
• Conduct regular site inspections to assess timber quality, operational effectiveness, and environmental impact.
• Maintain accurate records of harvested volumes, operational costs, and safety incidents.
• Collaborate with foresters, loggers, and transport managers to optimize the entire timber supply chain.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Forestry, Forest Management, or a related agricultural field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in forest harvesting operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Proven knowledge of timber harvesting techniques, equipment operation, and maintenance.
• Strong understanding of forestry regulations, environmental best practices, and occupational health and safety standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in challenging outdoor environments and manage logistical complexities.
• Proficiency in using basic computer software for record-keeping and reporting.
• A valid driver's license is essential for site supervision and travel within the KwaZulu-Natal region.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and environmental sustainability.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance incentives, and potential for career advancement within the forestry division. This role includes access to company vehicles and other operational resources. The position is based in the key port city of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a dynamic work environment within a significant industrial and agricultural hub. Join a company dedicated to responsible forest management and sustainable resource utilization.