Government Jobs

A Government of National Unity (GNU) is a coalition government formed by multiple political parties, often in response to a crisis or to foster national unity. In South Africa, the current GNU was formed after the 2024 elections, when no single party had secured a majority – leading to a coalition of ten parties. This GNU aims to tackle key challenges like inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and building a capable state.

Here's a breakdown of what you should know:

1. What it is: A GNU is a coalition government, where multiple parties agree to work together – often representing a broad spectrum of political views.
2. Why it's formed: GNUs are typically formed to address national crises, promote stability, and foster nation-building – especially after periods of division or transition.
3. South Africa's current GNU: The South African GNU includes the African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, and Rise Mzansi.
4. Key priorities: The GNU has identified three strategic priorities: driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
5. Decision-making: The GNU aims to make decisions by consensus. If consensus isn't possible, the principle of "sufficient consensus" applies – i.e. requiring agreement from parties representing 60 percent of the seats in the National Assembly.
6. Purpose: The GNU is intended to promote cooperation and partnership among different political parties, to help address the country's most pressing challenges. It also aims to rebuild public trust in governance, and create a more equitable society.
7. Historical context: South Africa also had a GNU after the 1994 elections, which was constitutionally mandated for the first term of parliament to promote nation-building and inclusivity.
8. Challenges and opportunities: The GNU faces the challenge of navigating diverse political viewpoints, and ensuring effective collaboration. However, it also presents an opportunity to address critical national issues through a united front.

Read more, here.

There are several reasons why people pursue employment via the government, locally. Five key reasons appear below:

• job stability: government positions often offer long-term employment security;
• benefits: you stand to gain attractive pension schemes, housing allowances, medical aid, and other benefits;
• career growth: opportunities for professional development, promotions, and skills training are plentiful;
• contribution to society: you will have the chance to contribute towards initiatives that improve the lives of fellow citizens, both currently and in the long term;
• and
• diversity of roles: opportunities are on offer across numerous fields, from administration to engineering.

Government jobs in South Africa are available across a wide range of sectors, including:

• administration and clerical roles;
• education (teachers, lecturers, and administrators);
• health (doctors, nurses, and paramedics);
• law enforcement (police officers, and traffic officers);
• engineering and infrastructure development;
• social development and community work;
• information technology;
• finance and accounting;
• legal and in the justice department;
• environmental and agricultural services;
• and
• state-owned enterprises such as Eskom, Transnet, and the SABC.

Five methods in which to find government-related employment in South Africa are:

• official websites: visit www.gov.za, and other department-specific websites;
• the Public Service Vacancy circular: check out this weekly publication, that offers a variety of updated vacancies;
• online job portals: sites such as Executive Placements offer public sector and government job listings;
• broadsheet newspapers: major publications such as the Sunday Times and City Press tend to list government department jobs;
• and
• direct Department Contacts: enquire directly with the government departments that correspond with your interest, talents, skills, and qualifications.

Requirements vary by role, but common criteria include:

• South African citizenship or a permanent residency;
• relevant qualifications (e.g. a Matric (Grade 12), diplomas or degrees that correlate with the job at hand).
• criminal record checks (i.e. successful candidates are typically subjected to Personnel Suitability Checks, which include criminal record checks, citizenship verification, and financial record checks. Additionally, qualifications and previous employment are verified. These checks ensure the integrity and suitability of individuals handling sensitive information and public resources);
• language proficiency (the ability to speak and communicate well in English and/or Afrikaans, plus possibly also a few of the other official South African languages);
• and
• specific skills or certifications for positions that are highly technical in nature.

Start by completing the Z83 Application Form, which is available online or at government offices. Be sure to attach certified copies of your qualifications, ID, and other relevant documentation (driver’s licence, Matric/Grade 12 certificate, references, etc). It is also important that you follow submission instructions carefully (i.e. whether email, postal, or hand-delivery is best); and ensure that your CV and role-suitable Cover Letter are tailored to the specific job forms. Most importantly of all, take care to apply strictly by the advised deadline.

An updated version can be downloaded for printing purposes, here.

The Z83 is the official government job-application form in South Africa. It captures personal details, qualifications, employment history, and references. An updated version can be downloaded for printing purposes, here.

Yes, many government departments offer internships, learnerships, and graduate training programmes that are aimed at young South Africans. Their aim is to assist the South African youth that qualify to gain practical work experience, and to help them make a successful transition into the adult workforce.

Here are several examples of graduate programmes available in the South African public sector:

• South African Revenue Service (SARS): SARS offers a Graduate-In-Training programme that serves as a feeder system for new talent;
• Public Investment Corporation (PIC): The PIC offers a Graduate Development Programme focused on asset and investment management;
• Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA): AGSA has a Graduate Trainee Programme that provides hands-on training and exposure to a range of different industries;
• Parliament of South Africa: Parliament also has a Graduate Programme that is advertised annually;
• Department of Employment and Labour (Compensation Fund): The Labour Department offers Graduate Internship Programmes on a regular basis;
• and
• Various other departments: Also seek learnerships and internships via the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) and the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), the National Treasury, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), and a range of provincial government youth initiatives.

These tips should assist you:

• check the specific department's website, and those of job-search websites;
• reach out to professionals in your field of interest and inquire about potential opportunities;
• and
• prepare a strong CV, highlighting your academic achievements, relevant skills, and any work experience you may have. Best of luck!

The PSC is an independent body that promotes a professional and ethical public service. It oversees recruitment fairness, monitors service delivery, and investigates grievances.

From a recruitment perspective, the PSC plays a crucial role in ensuring fairness during the recruitment process by monitoring, evaluating, and providing guidance on recruitment and selection processes. It further aims to prevent unfair hiring practices, promote ethical recruitment, and ensure compliance with the relevant policies and procedures. This department also handles complaints and grievances related to unfair recruitment, by conducting studies to identify areas for improvement.

Read more on “Ethics in Recruitment and Selection Processes in the Public Service”, here.

Salaries in the public sector depend on job level, qualifications, and experience. In general, here are the salaries to be expected at the three main tiers of government:

• entry-level clerks: around R120k to R200k annually;
• middle management: between R300k and R700k per annum;
• and
• senior management: between R900k and R1.5 million per year.

Specialised professions such as medical doctors, engineers, and legal experts can earn a great deal more – especially with is the skills they have to offer are in scarce supply.

In country’s highest-paid government role currently, is that of the CEO of the Development Bank of South Africa (DBSA). This individual earns R15.5 million annually, which is significantly higher than the President's salary, and many other top public sector roles. Read more, here.

Scarce skills are considered specialised qualifications and levels of experience, that tend to attract excellent pay packages and other incentives.

In the government sector, a few of the professions that are particularly highly prized include: medical and healthcare professionals; engineers (across the full scope of civil, mechanical, and electrical qualifications); IT specialists; finance and auditing experts; and educators in Mathematics, Science, Technology, and Engineering).

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) teachers are highly valued in South Africa due to the critical role they play in driving economic growth, technological advancement, and societal progress. A strong STEM education system is seen as essential for addressing historical inequalities and building a skilled workforce to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Most government jobs require South African citizenship. However, certain critically skilled positions may be opened to permanent residents or foreign nationals with proper work permits – although, these opportunities are rather limited.

Yes, government hiring follows Employment Equity policies to help address historical imbalances. Preference in such roles is often given to Black South Africans, women, and people with disabilities.

The landscape is highly competitive, especially when it comes to securing permanent positions. Factors that are sure to increase your chances, include the following four items:

• relevant qualifications;
• previous public-sector experience;
• strong references;
• and
• an excellent level of performance in your interview/s.

There are typically five steps involved, which run as follows:

• shortlisted candidates are contacted;
• panel interviews are conducted;
• competency-based questions are employed to assess skills and knowledge;
• psychometric tests may apply for particular roles;
• and
• security and reference checks follow on from successful interviews.

Be sure to look up the following critical departments, which are often in the news for one or other reason:

• Department of Health – in the news: https://iol.co.za/news/south-africa/2025-04-11-south-africas-1-650-healthcare-worker-recruitment-plan-sparks-mixed-union-reactions/;
• Department of Education – in the news: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZ8wJIxKCMo;
• Department of Home Affairs – in the news: https://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/statements-speeches/1901-obtain-smart-ids-and-use-ehome-affairs;
• Department of Transport – in the news: https://iol.co.za/news/politics/2025-07-02-urgent-need-for-private-sector-investment-in-south-africas-transport-infrastructure/;
• Department of Public Works and Infrastructure – in the news: https://www.news24.com/business/economy/rethinking-public-works-from-dept-of-bad-buildings-to-economic-delivery-unit-20250401;
• South African Police Service – in the news: https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2025-07-06-saps-commissioner-accuses-police-minister-of-derailing-probe-into-political-killings/;
• and
• Department of Social Development – in the news: https://www.news24.com/citypress/politics/social-development-ministers-adviser-shielded-from-gross-misconduct-20250614-1110.

Each province and municipality recruits for their own localised service delivery roles, including:

• those needed at health clinics and hospitals;
• those required by schools and education offices;
• municipal infrastructure (water, roads, sanitation) personnel;
• traffic and by-law enforcement;
• and
• community development programmes, among others.

SOEs such as Eskom, Transnet, Denel, and the SABC provide public services and infrastructure, offering jobs in the fields of:

• engineering;
• finance;
• operations;
• communications;
• administration;
• and
• technical maintenance.

Yes, indeed, particularly as regards:

• consultants;
• project-specific roles;
• temporary administrative assistance;
• community-based projects;
• and
• seasonal jobs, such as election staffing.

Public sector jobs are generally incredibly stable, but performance-based contracts, restructuring, or budget cuts can affect certain positions – especially in SOEs.

No 1: You need political connections.

Reality: While corruption exists, formal processes apply and positions are advertised publicly.

No 2: Government jobs are easy.

Reality: Many roles are demanding, especially in service delivery.

No 3: There is no opportunity for career growth.

Reality: There are structured pathways for both promotion, and development.

Firstly, be confident of the skills and qualifications you have achieved and logged up. Next, be sure that you understand the specific department's mandate. Review the job specification carefully, and prepare for any competency-based questions. Be sure that you can thrive if asked to reveal your communication and presentation skills; and, lastly, be ready for scenario-based problem-solving questions – it’s all about thinking on the spot, and applying what you know to real-world scenarios.

They certainly do, as we’ve already mentioned above. In summary, these tend to include everything from pension contributions and medical aid subsidies, to housing allowances (for qualifying positions), paid leave (sick, maternity, annual), and regular in-house training and development programmes.

A government housing allowance, which is often part of a housing scheme such as the Government Employees Housing Scheme (GEHS), is a monthly payment provided to eligible public service employees to help them with ongoing housing costs. The allowance aims to assist with either rental payments or mortgage instalments. Note that its amount and usage can vary based on employment date, and homeownership status. Read more here.

When you work in the public sector, you must be prepared for challenges and frustrations that include:

• bureaucracy and red tape;
• resource constraints in certain departments;
• high workloads in critical sectors, such as the health department and in policing;
• political influences when it comes to decision-making;
• and
• pressure to deliver services to deserving needy and underserved communities.

Corruption undermines service delivery and public trust. However, anti-corruption bodies, whistleblower protections, and public vigilance aim to reduce unethical practices.

South Africa is working on strengthening whistleblower protection through legislative amendments, and the proposed establishment of an Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). A new Whistleblower Protection Bill is expected to be introduced to Parliament later in 2025, addressing shortcomings in the current system. The Discussion Document on Proposed Reforms for the Whistleblower Protection Regime, released in 2023, proposes expanded definitions for protected disclosures and retaliation, and measures to enhance confidentiality.

IMDb advises on a plethora of international political movies to get you in the groove of government service. The top five to watch, not in any order, are probably:

• The King’s Speech (2010) – which follows the story of King George VI, his unexpected ascension to the throne of the British Empire in 1936, and the speech therapist who helped the unsure monarch overcome his stammer;
• The Apprentice (2024) – a film about a young man taking over his father's real-estate business in 1970s and '80s New York, and receiving the helping hand of an infamous closeted gay lawyer turns the young man into a notorious legend;
• Air Force One (1997) – in which communist radicals led by Ivan Korshunov hijack Air Force One with US President James Marshall and his family on board. Vice President Kathryn Bennett negotiates from Washington D.C., while Marshall fights to rescue the hostages on board;
• The Ides of March (2011) – a movie about campaign press secretary, placed by Ryan Gosling, who becomes involved in a scandal that threatens his candidate's election chances;
• and
• Darkest Hour (2017) – a story that begins in May 1940, when the fate of World War II hangs on Winston Churchill. He who must decide whether to negotiate with Adolf Hitler, or fight on knowing that it could mean the end of the British Empire.

Yes, it is. Government employees often have access to:

• in-house training;
• study-orientated bursaries;
• skills-development workshops;
• leadership programmes;
• and
• sector-specific certifications.

They can do so by applying for the internships, graduate programmes, and learnerships mentioned above; by participating in youth development programmes; by registering on platforms such as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA); and by visiting career expos and engaging in government outreach initiatives.

Typically, standard hours are:

• Monday to Friday;
• 7.5 to 8-hour workdays, depending on the length of the break you take;
• flexible hours, including hybrid work arrangements, may apply in certain roles – such as the DPSA, the National Treasury, and the Department of Communications and Digital Services (DCDT) in the quest to modernise operations and improve work-life balance;
• and
• the emergency services (police, health) are often required to work shifts or be on standby.

Since COVID-19, some administrative roles offer hybrid work models. However, frontline and service-delivery roles usually require an on-site presence of 8am to 4pm, or 9am to 5pm.

Government jobs in South Africa offer stability, purpose, and plentiful opportunities for growth. Whether you're an experienced professional or a young graduate, the public sector provides diverse pathways to build a meaningful career while serving your nation.

However, to easily secure a government or public sector role, be sure to:

• regularly check official vacancy circulars;
• ensure all documents are certified and up to date;
• customise your CV for each application;
• and
• be patient, because government recruitment can be a rather lengthy process.