The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has opened applications for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Project Support opportunities for 2026.
These opportunities are aimed at unemployed South African graduates who want to gain workplace experience within government development programmes, project administration, youth empowerment initiatives, and contractor support environments. Successful candidates will be appointed on a one-year fixed-term contract and receive a monthly stipend of R8 800.
For many graduates struggling to secure employment because of limited work experience, this programme offers valuable exposure to project coordination, government reporting systems, field support, and development administration.
Programme Information
- Programme: DFFE EPWP Project Support Programme 2026
- Employer: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
- Contract Type: One-year fixed-term contract
- Monthly Stipend: R8 800
- Closing Date: 29 May 2026
- Target Group: Unemployed youth graduates
- Experience Required: 0–2 years
- Application Method: Email, post, or hand delivery
Provinces and Centres Available
The programme is available across multiple provinces in South Africa.
Applicants must clearly state:
- the province
- city or centre
- correct reference number
Monthly Stipend Information
Successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend of R8 800.
Applicants should however note the following:
- accommodation is not provided
- transport costs remain the responsibility of the candidate
- payment is based on actual days worked
- deductions such as UIF and PAYE may apply
This programme is intended as a temporary workplace development opportunity rather than permanent employment.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, applicants must have:
- a recognised three-year Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma
- a qualification related to training, development, administration, or a relevant field
- between 0 and 2 years of experience
- basic understanding of data management and reporting
- knowledge of EPWP or government structures
- coordination and organisational skills
- stakeholder engagement abilities
- communication and interpersonal skills
- computer literacy, including Microsoft Office
- willingness to travel and work under pressure when required
Applicants with exposure to administration, youth development, project coordination, or training support may have an advantage during the selection process.
Main Responsibilities
Successful candidates will assist with several project support and administrative functions linked to EPWP operations.
Responsibilities may include:
- supporting youth and contractor development projects
- assisting with project planning and implementation
- evaluating monthly project reports
- helping process invoices and payments
- uploading training information onto systems
- monitoring compliance during projects
- conducting site visits
- compiling reports
- capturing project data
- filing and maintaining documentation
- supporting Directorate administrative functions
The programme provides practical exposure to both office-based administration and field project monitoring activities.
Why This Programme Matters
Many young South Africans struggle to find work because employers often require prior experience.
Programmes like this help graduates gain:
- workplace exposure
- government administration experience
- project coordination skills
- reporting and compliance experience
- professional communication skills
- stronger CVs
- networking opportunities
Although the contract is temporary, the experience gained may assist with future opportunities in:
- government departments
- municipalities
- NGOs
- development organisations
- private sector administration roles
Documents Applicants Must Submit
Applicants are required to submit:
- a signed application letter
- a detailed updated CV
- the correct reference number
Applicants applying for multiple centres must submit separate applications for each opportunity.
Email Application Process
Applications may be emailed to:
The email subject line must include the correct reference number.
Example:
- EPS23GP/2026
Postal Application Address
Applications may also be posted to:
The Director-General
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Private Bag X447
Pretoria
0001
Hand Delivery Address
Applications may be hand delivered to:
Environment House
Erf 1563 Arcadia Extension 6
Corner Soutpansberg and Steve Biko Road
Arcadia
Pretoria
Applications for Group 01 to Group 11 should be placed inside the box marked:
“EPWP PROJECT SUPPORT Group 01 to Group 11”
Important Information Applicants Should Know
The department has highlighted several important conditions:
- foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA
- only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- security vetting and screening may be conducted
- criminal record checks may apply
- qualifications may be verified
- the department reserves the right not to fill positions
- these are not permanent employment opportunities
- the programme follows a “no work, no pay” principle
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