South Africans who need a government job should act now – the DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular 32 of 2026 was released on 4 September 2026 and already contains hundreds of openings. You can start searching for the right vacancy through the SETA SA portal.
What the circular contains
The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) gathered all current vacancies from national departments and provincial administrations into one document. It covers a wide range of occupations and salary levels, including many posts that need only Grade 8, Grade 10, Grade 12, NCV Level 4 or similar qualifications.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants include:
- Grade 8 / ABET / AET holders
- Grade 10 / Standard 8 / ABET Level 4
- Grade 12 / National Senior Certificate
- NCV Level 4 or other recognised TVET qualifications
- Applicants with little or no work experience (where the advert states “no experience required”)
Positions are spread across all provinces and national offices, so you should check the qualification, occupation and location that match you.
What you gain
These entry‑level roles give you:
- Stable, permanent or fixed‑term employment in the public sector
- A starting salary that ranges from roughly R144 024 to R237 453 per year
- Work experience that can be used to progress to higher‑level government jobs
- Opportunities to learn on the job, especially through learnership programmes
How to apply – step by step
- Find a suitable vacancy
Use the DPSA entry‑level jobs search tool or download the circular (341 pages). Match your qualification to the “Requirements” section of each advert. - Check every compulsory requirement
Look for mandatory items such as a driver’s licence, PSIRA registration, specific trade certificates or computer literacy. “Added advantage” items are optional. - Note the reference number
Each vacancy has a unique reference. You must include this number exactly as shown in your application. - Complete the correct Z83 form
If the advert requests a Z83, use the new version effective from 1 January 2021. Do not submit an old form. - Prepare a tailored CV
Highlight the skills the advert asks for – e.g., filing and data entry for a Registry Clerk, or safety knowledge for a Trade Assistant. - Follow the submission instructions
Applications may be accepted by email, online portal, post, or hand‑delivery. Use the exact address or email given in the advert. - Submit before the closing date
Each vacancy has its own deadline. Do not wait until the last minute.
Tips to improve your chances
- Read the full advertisement – never rely on a short summary.
- Make sure you meet every compulsory requirement before applying.
- Use the correct Z83 form and reference number; errors lead to automatic disqualification.
- Tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific role.
- Apply early; some departments receive many applications quickly.
- Keep copies of all documents you send, and note the date you submitted.
Examples of entry‑level vacancies
Trade Assistant – 10 posts (Department of Higher Education and Training)
Location: Indlela, Olifantsfontein
Salary: R170 226 per year (Level 3)
Minimum qualification: Grade 10 / Standard 8 / ABET Level 4
Experience: 1–2 years is an advantage, not a requirement.
Food Service Aid – 2 posts (Department of Higher Education and Training)
Location: Olifantsfontein
Salary: R144 024 per year (Level 2)
Qualification: ABET / Standard 8 / Grade 10
Key duties: Follow basic OHS rules, work in a team, handle food services.
Driver – Limpopo (Waterberg District – Modimolle Building Maintenance)
Salary: R170 226 per year (Level 3)
Qualification: Grade 10 or NQF Level 4
Additional requirement: Valid driver’s licence with a Professional Driving Permit and relevant driving experience.
Library Material Processor – Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Location: Various sites in Cape Town
Salary: R144 024 – R169 656 per year
Qualification: Grade 10 / Junior Certificate or equivalent
Duties: Process new library items, update the library management system, perform basic admin tasks.
Cleaner – Limpopo Department of Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure
Location: Mopani District, Giyani Cost Centre
Salary: R144 024 per year (Level 2)
Qualification: Grade 8 / ABET / AET or NQF Level 2
Work: Clean offices, corridors, kitchens and restrooms; manage waste and cleaning equipment.
Registry Clerk – No experience required (Eastern Cape Provincial Office)
Number of posts: 2
Contract: Three years
Salary: R237 453 per year plus 37 % in lieu of benefits
Qualification: Grade 12 / Senior Certificate
Experience: None required; driver’s licence is only an advantage.
Senior Accounting Clerk – 10 posts (Unemployment Insurance Fund)
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R237 453 per year plus 37 % benefits
Qualification: Matric / Grade 12
Experience: 0–6 months of relevant finance work.
Security Officer (Compensation Fund)
Qualification: Grade 12 (NQF Level 4) plus PSIRA Grade C certificate.
Additional requirements: PSIRA registration and, where stated, relevant experience.
Home Affairs Cadet Learnership Programme 2026/2027
Duration: 12 months
Stipend: R4 500 per month
Eligibility: National Senior Certificate (Matric)
Placements: Gauteng (Krugersdorp, Benoni, Cresta, Sedibeng, Mamelodi), Eastern Cape (King William’s Town, Gqeberha, Libode, Queenstown, East London, Port St Johns) and other provinces.
Frequently asked questions
- When was Circular 32 published?
It was issued on 4 September 2026. - Can I apply with only Grade 10?
Yes. Positions such as Trade Assistant, Food Service Aid and Library Material Processor accept Grade 10 or equivalent. - Are there jobs for people below Grade 10?
Yes. For example, a Cleaner post in Limpopo accepts Grade 8/ABET/AET/NQF Level 2. - Are there Grade 12 jobs with no experience required?
Yes. The Registry Clerk (UIF) role in the Eastern Cape requires only Grade 12. - Can TVET graduates apply?
Yes, if their qualification matches the specific vacancy requirements (e.g., NCV Level 4). - Is there a Home Affairs learnership?
Yes, a 12‑month Cadet Learnership with a R4 500 monthly stipend. - Do I need to use the Z83 form?
Only for vacancies that explicitly request it, and you must use the version effective from 1 January 2021. - Do I have to submit certified copies?
Not always. Some adverts allow uncertified copies initially and request certified ones later. Follow each advert’s instructions. - Where can I find entry‑level jobs without scanning the whole circular?
Use the dedicated entry‑level jobs search tool on the SETA SA website. - Are all the jobs permanent?
No. The circular includes permanent posts, fixed‑term contracts and learnership programmes. - Can I apply for more than one vacancy?
Yes, but you must follow the separate instructions for each posting. - Does SETA SA recruit applicants for government departments?
No. SETA SA provides information and tools only; applications must be sent through the official channels listed in each advert.
Conclusion
Do not wait for a university degree before looking at government jobs. Circular 32 shows that positions exist for Grade 8, Grade 10, Grade 12 and TVET qualifications. Choose the roles that match your skill level, follow the application steps carefully, and submit your documents exactly as instructed. Bookmark the SETA SA entry‑level jobs page and check it regularly for new openings.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Vacancy requirements, salaries and procedures are set by the relevant government departments. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee an interview or appointment. Never pay anyone who claims they can secure you a government job. Always apply through the official channels listed in each advertisement.
