Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Groundsman Vacancy: Grade 9 Applicants Can Apply
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Groundsman Vacancy: Grade 9 Applicants Can Apply
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has announced a Groundsman vacancy in the Northern Cape, offering an opportunity for job seekers with a Grade 9 qualification to enter the public service.
The position focuses on garden maintenance, nursery operations, tree planting and greening activities. It is particularly suitable for individuals who have an interest in plants, gardening, environmental protection and practical outdoor work.
The department is offering a salary of R144 024 per annum, and interested applicants have until 23 November 2026 to submit their applications.
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Groundsman Vacancy
- Employer: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
- Job Title: Groundsman: Greening and Livelihoods Implementation Support
- Reference Number: FOM75/2026
- Salary: R144 024 per annum
- Location: Northern Cape, South Africa
- Minimum Qualification: Grade 9 (NQF Level 1) or equivalent
- Application Method: Online application
- Closing Date: 23 November 2026
- Closing Time: 16:00
Minimum Requirements for the DFFE Groundsman Vacancy
Applicants interested in the Groundsman position must have a Grade 9 qualification at NQF Level 1 or an equivalent qualification.
Candidates should also demonstrate the following knowledge, skills and abilities:
- Knowledge of plants, gardening and general garden maintenance.
- Ability to operate basic machinery, tools and gardening equipment.
- Knowledge of computer operations.
- Good planning and organisational skills.
- Effective verbal communication skills.
- Good interpersonal and teamwork skills.
- Willingness to work additional hours voluntarily when required.
- Ability to perform duties with limited supervision.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure.
- Ability to deal with difficult situations and resolve workplace conflicts.
The advertised requirements do not specify a minimum number of years of work experience. However, applicants must be capable of performing the practical duties associated with the position.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Groundsman
The successful applicant will support the department’s environmental greening initiatives by maintaining gardens, caring for seedlings and trees, and assisting with general nursery operations.
1. Garden and Grounds Maintenance
The Groundsman will be responsible for maintaining outdoor areas and ensuring that gardens, lawns and flower beds are properly cared for.
Key duties include:
- Watering and irrigating plants, trees and lawns.
- Removing weeds and carrying out weed-control activities.
- Pruning and trimming plants, shrubs and trees.
- Cutting grass and mowing lawns.
- Planting seeds and transplanting plants.
- Maintaining flower beds and garden edges.
- Collecting and disposing of organic garden waste.
- Preparing compost and maintaining soil conditions.
- Supporting general grounds and infrastructure maintenance.
2. Nursery and Seedling Production
The position also involves assisting with the preparation, growing and maintenance of seedlings and young trees.
Responsibilities include:
- Collecting and cleaning seeds.
- Performing seed treatments before planting.
- Preparing seedling trays for planting.
- Sowing seeds and preparing plant cuttings.
- Filling planting bags with suitable soil.
- Preparing nursery beds for transplanting.
- Transplanting seedlings from trays into planting bags.
- Moving growing trees into larger planting bags.
- Arranging and packing transplanted trees.
- Mixing sand and compost for planting activities.
- Irrigating seedlings and trees.
- Checking plants for pests and diseases.
3. General Nursery Support
The Groundsman will assist with the daily operation and upkeep of the nursery.
Duties include:
- Providing general labour within the nursery.
- Performing manual and chemical weed control.
- Assisting with nursery stocktaking.
- Correctly tagging and identifying plants.
- Helping customers who visit the nursery to purchase trees.
- Reporting damage or problems to the Foreman.
- Keeping nursery workspaces organised and clean.
4. Equipment and Machinery Maintenance
The successful candidate will also help ensure that equipment and machinery are used responsibly and maintained in good working condition.
Responsibilities include:
- Using and cleaning tractors and dumpers.
- Carrying out basic maintenance of equipment.
- Moving sand and compost to planting tables and nursery beds.
- Transporting seedlings, crates and trees.
- Cleaning machinery and equipment after use.
- Taking responsibility for allocated tools.
- Reporting damaged equipment to the relevant supervisor.
How to Apply for the DFFE Groundsman Vacancy
All applications must be submitted through the official Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment online recruitment system.
Step 1: Visit the official DFFE eRecruitment portal.
Step 2: Find the Groundsman: Greening and Livelihoods Implementation Support vacancy using reference number FOM75/2026.
Step 3: Complete every required section of the online Z83 application form.
Step 4: Attach a detailed and updated curriculum vitae (CV), including at least three contactable references.
Step 5: Review your information carefully and ensure that all required details have been provided.
Step 6: Submit your application online before the closing date and time.
Important: Applications must be submitted online. Incomplete applications or failure to disclose required information will result in disqualification.
Important Information for Applicants
Before submitting an application, candidates should take note of the following conditions:
- Applicants must complete all sections of the online Z83 application form.
- A detailed CV containing at least three contactable references must be attached.
- Shortlisted candidates will be required to provide certified copies of their qualifications and identity documents.
- A certified driver’s licence must also be provided where applicable to the interview documentation requirements.
- Candidates with foreign qualifications must arrange for evaluation by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
- Required certified documents must be submitted on or before the interview date.
- Applications received after the closing date and time will not be accepted.
Enquiries and Contact Details
Applicants requiring additional information about the Groundsman vacancy can contact:
Contact Person: Ms S. Lubanga
Telephone: 060 973 1792
Department: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
For Attention: Human Resource Management
Closing Date for the Groundsman Vacancy
The closing date for applications is 23 November 2026 at 16:00.
Applicants are advised to submit their applications early to avoid potential technical problems or last-minute delays on the recruitment website.
Late applications will not be accepted.
Why Consider This Government Groundsman Opportunity?
For job seekers with a Grade 9 qualification and an interest in environmental work, this vacancy provides an opportunity to contribute to South Africa’s greening and environmental management activities.
The role offers practical experience in gardening, nursery management, seedling production and the care of trees and plants.
It may appeal to individuals who prefer hands-on responsibilities rather than office-based work and who enjoy contributing to cleaner, greener and better-maintained public spaces.
Final Reminder
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Groundsman vacancy is an opportunity for eligible Grade 9 job seekers in South Africa.
With a salary of R144 024 per annum and a range of responsibilities involving gardening, planting and nursery support, the position offers practical work within the public service.
Applicants who meet the requirements should complete the online Z83 application form, attach their detailed CV with three contactable references and submit everything before 23 November 2026 at 16:00.
