DOCKER: PROCLAIMED FISHING HARBOURS MANAGEMENT (X4 POSTS)

This position is for a Docker within the Proclaimed Fishing Harbours Management unit of the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, with four posts available across three coastal locations: two at Saldanha Bay, one at Lamberts Bay, and one at Stilbaai. The role is essential to the safe and efficient operation of proclaimed fishing harbours, focusing on the physical work of hauling vessels out of the water for maintenance and repair, as well as the upkeep of the slipway infrastructure that supports these activities. As a Docker, you will be part of a team responsible for ensuring that vessel slipping operations run smoothly and safely, in line with relevant maritime and environmental legislation.

To be considered, applicants need a Grade 12 Certificate at NQF level 4 or an appropriate Trade Test Certificate, together with at least one year of practical experience as a handyman or in a similar relevant role. A working knowledge of the Marine Living Resources Act, 1998 and its regulations is required, as is a basic understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993. Familiarity with dry docking procedures and the ability to handle general cleaning, maintenance, and equipment operation tasks are also essential. These requirements reflect the hands-on nature of the job, which demands both technical skill and an awareness of safety and legal compliance.

The core duties involve conducting vessel slipping operations, including building bilge blocks and wedges for the main slip, and continuously aligning and adjusting these blocks while the cradle is in motion. You will operate slipway machinery and workshop power tools in preparation for slipping, and you must report any dysfunctional equipment promptly. Maintenance is a major part of the role: you will perform slipway maintenance, paint slipway infrastructure, replace worn wood on slip beams, and keep the slip and storage areas clean. In addition, you will carry out administrative duties, assist with emergency operations, respond to emergency calls, and perform gate duties when needed. This means the Docker must be reliable, safety-conscious, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and preference may be given to appointable applicants from underrepresented designated groups in line with the Department’s equity plan. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, identity documents, and driver’s licences before the interview, and foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA. All shortlisted candidates will undergo screening and security vetting, including criminal record, citizenship, creditworthiness, reference checks, and qualification verification. By applying, candidates consent to the processing of personal information under POPIA. The Department reserves the right not to make an appointment, and only successful candidates will be contacted. Applications are submitted online, with a signed Z83 form and a detailed CV combined into a single PDF document, and the correct job title and reference number must be indicated. If no response is received within three months of the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.