Lead Forestry Manager: Sustainable Timber Operations

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical & life insurance

Retirement savings plan

Housing allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Forestry Manager to oversee timber operations in the Durban region of KwaZulu-Natal. The role requires leadership in sustainable forest management, harvesting, and replanting, with a strong focus on environmental standards and operational efficiency.

You will develop plans, supervise field teams, manage budgets, ensure regulatory compliance (FSC), and build stakeholder relationships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Forestry or related field required.
• Postgraduate qualifications are advantageous.
• Minimum 6 years in forest management with leadership experience.
• Knowledge of sustainable forestry, silviculture, GIS, and forest mensuration.
• Experience with timber harvesting techniques and logistics.
• Strong understanding of environmental legislation and certification standards in forestry.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and project management skills.
• Proficiency in forestry software and standard office applications.
• Ability to manage budgets and control operational costs.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel to remote forest sites.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic forest management plans, including harvesting schedules, replanting programs, and inventory assessments.
• Supervise all field operations, including logging, transportation, and site rehabilitation.
• Ensure compliance with all forestry regulations, certifications (e.g., FSC), and environmental best practices.
• Manage budgets, resources, and staff effectively to achieve targets and cost efficiencies.
• Conduct regular site inspections to monitor forest health, pest outbreaks, and fire risks.
• Implement silvicultural practices to promote healthy forest growth and maximize timber yield.
• Maintain relationships with local communities, government agencies, and stakeholders.
• Oversee procurement of equipment and materials for forestry operations.
• Analyze operational data to identify improvements in efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Skills

Forestry management

Silviculture

GIS

Leadership

Budgeting

Project management

Driver's license

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Forestry/Environment

Postgraduate qualifications

Tools

GIS software

Office suite

Forestry software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Forestry Manager to oversee timber operations in the Durban region of KwaZulu-Natal. The role requires leadership in sustainable forest management, harvesting, and replanting, with a strong focus on environmental standards and operational efficiency.

You will develop plans, supervise field teams, manage budgets, ensure regulatory compliance (FSC), and build stakeholder relationships.