Maritime Services Position

Maritime Services Position

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) invites applications for the Maritime Services position, Reference Number OC02/2025. This role offers a competitive salary of R1 216 824 per annum, inclusive of all benefits. The successful candidate will be based in Cape Town.

Qualifications and Requirements

To qualify for the position, applicants must hold a Master’s Degree in maritime studies, Sciences, Economics, Engineering, Law, or a relevant qualification recognized on NQF 9. The qualification should be accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Experience and Senior Management Skills

Candidates must have a minimum of five years’ experience at the middle/senior management level in a relevant field. Additionally, candidates must have completed the Senior Management Pre-entry Programme endorsed by the National School of Government (NSG).

Knowledge of the Ocean Economy

A thorough knowledge of the policies and legislation related to the various aspects of the ocean economy and environment is essential. The candidate must understand the Operation Phakisa initiative, which is integral to the development of South Africa’s oceans economy.

Intergovernmental Systems and Governance

An in-depth understanding of the intergovernmental system and national, provincial, and local governance processes is essential. The candidate must be able to navigate the complexities of governance structures to ensure effective implementation of maritime services.

Project Management and Ocean Management

The successful candidate should possess strong project management experience, with a deep understanding of ocean management, including planning, monitoring, and reporting. Knowledge of administration and financial management within government procedures is a key requirement.

Knowledge of Public Service Procedures

Familiarity with Public Service and Departmental procedures is essential for the role. Candidates must understand government policies and be able to apply them effectively. Adherence to these procedures ensures compliance and successful program execution.

Required Competencies

The ideal candidate should demonstrate strategic planning, leadership capabilities, and programme/project management skills. They should also be proficient in financial management, knowledge management, and service delivery innovation (SDI). Problem-solving, people management, and client orientation are essential competencies for the position.

Communication and Analytical Skills

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, are necessary for interacting with stakeholders. The candidate should be able to present analytical findings and communicate complex maritime topics clearly. Computer proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is essential.

Strong Interpersonal Skills

The candidate must possess good interpersonal relations and be able to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders. Strong conflict management skills are needed to navigate challenges and maintain smooth relationships with partners and colleagues.

Working Under Pressure

Candidates should have the ability to work under extreme pressure and handle tight deadlines. The role may involve working long hours voluntarily, requiring the candidate to demonstrate a high level of responsibility and dedication to completing tasks efficiently.

Independent and Team Work

The successful candidate must be comfortable working independently while also being able to collaborate effectively within a team environment. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial, especially when working with various stakeholders on complex projects.

Problem Solving and Innovation

A key responsibility of this role is identifying challenges and implementing innovative solutions to resolve them. Candidates should be proactive in analyzing trends and issues in the ocean economy, identifying growth opportunities, and providing solutions to address sector-specific challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities

The successful candidate will provide specialist input, advice, and support for maritime services. This includes assisting with marine transport, offshore oil and gas operations, and other sub-sectors of the oceans economy. The candidate will also provide support related to the Oceans Economy programme.

Project Identification and Stakeholder Collaboration

One of the key responsibilities will be identifying potential projects and collaborating with relevant stakeholders. The successful candidate will work closely with implementing departments and units to bring these projects to fruition.

Fast-Tracking Delivery

The candidate will identify areas that require attention and implement interventions to fast-track delivery. They will attend meetings of the Oceans Economy Delivery Unit and other relevant forums to ensure that projects progress efficiently.

Unblocking Constraints and Issue Resolution

Another key responsibility will be unblocking binding constraints and resolving issues that may delay progress. The candidate will analyze reports, identify issues, and provide specialist support to ensure the smooth implementation of maritime services.

Record Keeping and Issue Escalation

The candidate must maintain a detailed record of issues and their resolution. This includes keeping a register of all issues for escalation and providing updates to senior management on progress and outcomes.

Trend Analysis and Opportunity Identification

The role also involves analyzing trends in the ocean economy and identifying new growth opportunities. The candidate will work to capitalize on emerging trends and ensure the sector continues to grow sustainably.

Reporting and Stakeholder Engagement

The successful candidate will be responsible for reporting on progress related to the implementation of oceans economy initiatives. They will facilitate stakeholder engagement and ensure that communication between various parties is clear and effective.

Facilitating Sector Issue Resolution

The candidate will liaise with stakeholders to address sector-specific issues. They will ensure that effective solutions are developed and implemented in collaboration with all relevant parties.

Liaising with Focus Areas

The candidate will actively engage with different focus areas within the Oceans and Coasts Branch and other government departments. They will also collaborate with intergovernmental stakeholders to promote the successful delivery of maritime initiatives.

Managing Maritime Services Projects

Managing various projects within the maritime services sector will be a central part of the role. The candidate will need to coordinate with multiple departments and ensure that all projects are aligned with broader government objectives for the ocean economy.

Role in the Oceans Economy Programme

The role plays a significant part in advancing South Africa’s ocean economy by supporting the government’s initiatives related to marine resources. This includes supporting sustainable growth in the sector and ensuring that all projects are managed effectively and efficiently.

Collaboration with Government Structures

The successful candidate will collaborate closely with government coordinating structures. This will include working with local, provincial, and national stakeholders to ensure the alignment of efforts and maximize the impact of maritime services.

Contact and Application Details

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting their application to OC02-2025@dffe.gov.za. For any queries related to the position, applicants can contact Ms. M Korsten at (021) 943 7356.


This position offers an exciting opportunity for individuals with a strong background in maritime services, governance, and project management. The successful candidate will play a critical role in supporting South Africa’s ocean economy, working with a diverse range of stakeholders to ensure the success of government initiatives.

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Author: Lutendo Mkhabela

keneilwe molaudzi is an author and editor at updatednow that research and give updates on the latest vacancies opening is south africa , guides on how to apply and world news and sports editor

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