A New Era of Employment in South Africa
South Africa continues to address unemployment and uplift its communities through strategic government hiring programs. One of the key departments leading this movement is the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL). With 2025 well underway, the Department has launched an expansive recruitment initiative targeting both recent graduates and experienced professionals. This post provides an in-depth guide for anyone interested in applying to positions available within the Department of Labour in 2025.
Whether you’re seeking entry-level administrative roles, inspectorate positions, IT support, human resources roles, or even executive leadership vacancies, the Department of Labour offers diverse opportunities that match a range of skills and qualifications.
If you’re a South African citizen passionate about contributing to labour law enforcement, policy support, employment creation, and fair workplace practices, this is your chance to serve the country while building a sustainable career.
What is the Department of Labour and What Does It Do?
Before diving into the available opportunities, it’s important to understand the mission and work of the Department of Employment and Labour (previously known simply as the Department of Labour).
The Department’s primary objective is to regulate and support workplace fairness in South Africa. It focuses on promoting employment, ensuring social protection, enforcing labour legislation, and upholding workers’ rights.
Key directorates within the Department include:
- Inspection and Enforcement Services (IES)
- Public Employment Services (PES)
- Labour Policy and Industrial Relations (LP & IR)
- Corporate Services and Administration
Why Work for the Department of Labour?
There are multiple benefits to pursuing a career within the public sector, particularly at the Department of Employment and Labour:
- Job Stability: Government jobs are generally more secure compared to private sector roles.
- Growth Opportunities: With structured career paths and internal promotions, growth is encouraged.
- Impactful Work: Employees directly contribute to policy enforcement, employment creation, and social justice.
- Training and Development: Interns, graduates, and permanent employees gain access to ongoing skills development and mentorship programs.
- Attractive Benefits: Pension, housing allowance, medical aid, and paid leave are just some of the perks.
Department of Labour Positions Available in 2025
The Department is currently hiring across various provinces in South Africa including Gauteng, Limpopo, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and North West.
Here is a list of roles available in the 2025 intake:
1. Administration Clerks (Entry Level)
- Locations: Nationwide
- Requirements: Grade 12 (Matric), basic computer skills
- Duties: Office administration, filing, document control, supporting internal communication
2. Occupational Health and Safety Inspectors
- Requirements: National Diploma/Degree in Environmental Health/Safety Management
- Duties: Conduct workplace inspections, ensure compliance with OHS laws
3. Employment Service Practitioners
- Requirements: Degree/Diploma in Human Resources, Labour Relations, or Psychology
- Duties: Assist unemployed individuals in securing jobs, maintain employment databases
4. IT Technicians and Support Staff
- Requirements: Diploma/Degree in IT, Computer Science
- Duties: Network troubleshooting, system maintenance, software support
5. Human Resources Clerks and Specialists
- Requirements: Degree in HR or Labour Relations
- Duties: Recruitment, payroll support, training coordination
6. Internship and Graduate Programme 2025
- Fields: Public Admin, Labour Relations, Law, HR, Finance, Communications
- Duration: 12 to 24 months
- Stipend: R6,000 – R7,000 monthly
7. Finance Officers
- Requirements: BCom in Accounting/Finance
- Duties: Budget control, auditing support, reporting
8. Call Centre Agents (Unemployed Youth)
- Requirements: Grade 12, good communication skills
- Duties: Respond to public queries, log complaints, assist with UIF/Compensation Fund inquiries
Minimum Application Requirements
To apply for any of the Department of Labour’s jobs or internship programs, candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID document
- Be between 18 and 35 years old (for internships and entry-level posts)
- Have no criminal record
- Possess the minimum qualification listed per role
- Be unemployed if applying for internship or EPWP-based posts
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the Official Department of Labour Website:
Navigate to labour gov website and go to the “Vacancies” tab. - Download Z83 Application Form:
All public service applications must be submitted with a completed Z83 form. You can download the updated version directly from the website or collect it at any government office. - Prepare Your CV and Documents:
Include certified copies of your ID, qualifications, and a detailed CV. Ensure that documents are clear and not older than three months. - Email or Postal Submission:
Each vacancy will state where and how to send your documents. Many jobs now accept email applications, but others still require postal submissions. - Check Closing Dates:
Applications must be submitted on or before the stated closing date. Late submissions will not be accepted.
What Happens After You Apply?
After the closing date, the Department will conduct shortlisting. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted—so it’s important to ensure your application is complete and compelling.
If shortlisted:
- You’ll be invited for interviews.
- Some positions may require technical assessments.
- Reference and background checks will be conducted.
- Final selection and offer letters are issued after interviews.
Internship candidates will receive notification by email or phone. For all positions, patience is key—response times may vary based on role and number of applicants.
Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out
- Tailor Your CV: Mention relevant experience, especially volunteer work or short courses.
- Double Check Documents: Applications with missing or uncertified documents are disqualified.
- Stay Professional: Your email tone, CV design, and Z83 handwriting should be neat and professional.
- Apply Early: Submit well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Final Thoughts: A Chance to Serve and Grow
With thousands of roles available nationwide, the Department of Employment and Labour offers you the opportunity to not just earn an income, but to make a difference. In 2025, they continue their commitment to inclusive hiring, skills development, and service delivery—empowering young South Africans with meaningful work.
Whether you’re a student looking for an internship, a graduate seeking public sector experience, or a professional aiming to transition into government work—now is the time to act.
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