The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is recruiting EPWP Project Support staff in Pretoria for a one-year contract with a monthly stipend of R8 800. Applications close 29 May 2026.
DFFE Opens New EPWP Project Support Opportunity for Youth
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has announced a new employment opportunity under its Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Project Support initiative for 2026. The programme is aimed at providing unemployed youth with practical work experience through a one-year fixed-term contract.
The advertised opportunity falls under Group 11 and focuses on EPWP reporting and data coordination functions. Successful candidates will be based in Pretoria, Gauteng, and will receive a monthly stipend of R8 800.
Applications officially close on 29 May 2026.
Programme Designed to Build Work Experience
The EPWP programme continues to serve as one of South Africa’s largest employment support initiatives for unemployed youth and graduates. Through structured temporary placements, participants gain exposure to workplace systems, reporting structures, administrative processes, and project coordination responsibilities.
This specific opportunity is intended to strengthen project reporting and compliance support within the department. The programme focuses not only on employment but also on helping participants develop practical government administration and data management experience.
The department has emphasised that the programme follows a “no work, no pay” principle, meaning payment is based on actual days worked and remains subject to statutory deductions such as UIF and PAYE where applicable.
Role Focuses on Reporting and Data Coordination
The successful candidate will support the implementation and monitoring of EPWP reporting systems and compliance processes. A major part of the role involves verifying project documentation, maintaining accurate records, and supporting data quality management within the programme.
Participants will also assist with reporting outputs, monthly project progress reports, and updating project tracking systems using validated information. These tasks are intended to ensure that project information remains accurate, complete, and aligned with government reporting standards.
Another key responsibility involves supporting administrative coordination processes, including preparing meeting schedules, recording action minutes, organising filing systems, and assisting with travel arrangements linked to departmental activities.
The position also requires ongoing engagement with internal reporting systems such as Microsoft Teams and external EPWP reporting platforms.
Qualifications and Skills Required
To qualify for the opportunity, applicants must hold a recognised three-year Bachelor’s Degree, National Diploma, or an equivalent qualification in a related field.
Preference will be given to candidates with between zero and two years of relevant experience. This makes the programme particularly suitable for recent graduates or young professionals seeking workplace exposure within government structures.
Applicants are also expected to demonstrate:
- Basic knowledge of data management and reporting systems
- Understanding of EPWP structures and government processes
- Organisational and planning skills
- Communication and interpersonal abilities
- Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office proficiency
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Willingness to travel and work extended hours when necessary will serve as an added advantage.
Opportunity Targets Youth Development
The programme forms part of broader efforts to improve youth employability through workplace exposure and skills development. Government departments continue using EPWP structures to provide temporary employment while strengthening practical experience for young South Africans entering the labour market.
By participating in reporting, data verification, and administrative support functions, candidates gain exposure to operational systems commonly used within the public sector environment.
The role also introduces participants to compliance monitoring, stakeholder coordination, and project management support functions that are important in government programmes.
Important Application Instructions
The department has issued strict application instructions for all applicants. Candidates must clearly indicate the province, city or town, and reference number in a signed application letter.
For this role, the reference number is:
EPS43/2026
Applicants applying for multiple opportunities are required to submit separate applications and supporting documents for each position.
Applications must include:
- A signed application letter
- A recent detailed CV
Applications may be submitted either by email, post, or hand delivery.
For email submissions, the subject line must contain the relevant reference number.
Applications can be emailed to:
Additional Recruitment Information
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has stated that shortlisted candidates will undergo screening and verification processes. These checks may include:
- Criminal record screening
- Qualification verification
- Reference checks
- Citizenship confirmation
- Credit checks
- Social media screening
The department also noted that applications received may remain on the programme database for future opportunities as vacancies become available throughout the programme period.
Preference may be given to candidates from underrepresented designated groups in line with the department’s employment equity plan. Persons living with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Closing Date
Applications for the DFFE EPWP Project Support opportunity close on 29 May 2026.
As public sector youth programmes continue attracting high numbers of applicants across South Africa, interested candidates may benefit from submitting complete applications well before the deadline.
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