How to apply for government jobs in South Africa
The public service is one of the biggest employers in South Africa, with posts in national departments, provincial departments, municipalities and state-owned entities. The application process is more formal than in the private sector, so it pays to know the rules.
Where government jobs are advertised
- The DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular, published regularly on the Department of Public Service and Administration website
- Provincial government and individual department websites
- Municipal websites and notice boards
- Job boards like JobFound's government vacancies, which collect posts in one place
What you usually need
- A fully completed and signed Z83 form for each post
- A detailed CV
- Copies of your ID and qualifications, many departments now only ask for certified copies from shortlisted candidates, but follow what the advert says
How to submit
Each advert says how to apply: by email, through an online system such as a department e-recruitment portal, by hand delivery or by post. Use only that method and quote the reference number. If you send an email, put the reference number and post title in the subject line and attach everything as PDFs.
What happens next
Departments usually state that if you have not heard from them within a set period after the closing date, your application was unsuccessful. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to do a test, an interview and background checks such as qualification verification and a criminal record check.
Tips that make a difference
- Meet the minimum requirements in the advert before applying, screening is strict.
- Tailor your CV to the duties listed in the advert.
- Apply well before the closing date in case the system is slow.
- Keep a list of every post you applied for and its reference number.