EPWP 2026 Jobs in South Africa: Explore Municipal Career Opportunities for Youth
The City of Johannesburg invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for General Worker vacancies. The closing date for applications is 30th August 2025.
What is the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)?
The EPWP is a big government job plan in South Africa. Every year it gives thousands of young people who don’t have a job a chance to work on short‑term projects in towns, city councils and community projects.
Why should you look at EPWP jobs?
- It gives you a paid job for a few months.
- You learn new skills while you work.
- The experience can lead to a permanent job later.
- You earn a small monthly allowance (the stipend).
Common EPWP job types
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Waste & Street Cleaning | Sweep streets, collect rubbish, clear storm drains |
| Parks & Recreation | Cut grass, garden, maintain cemeteries |
| Office Help | File papers, greet customers, enter data |
| Traffic & Safety | Support traffic officers, manage crowds |
| Construction Help | Simple building work, painting, plumbing support |
| Community Projects | Help youth programmes, social service support, door‑to‑door campaigns |
Who can join? (2026 rules)
- Unemployed and South African citizen.
- 18‑35 years old (young people get priority).
- School grade 8‑12, depending on the job.
- Must live in the municipality where you want to work.
- You haven’t worked in EPWP before (some places allow 1‑2 previous cycles).
- Proof of address is usually needed.
How much do you get paid?
EPWP workers receive a minimum daily rate that changes from one municipality to another.
Typical monthly stipend: R2,500 – R3,500.
Jobs that involve a bit of training or special skills may pay a little more.
Popular EPWP positions in each province
- Gauteng – City of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni: street cleaners, waste assistants, cemetery workers, park staff.
- KwaZulu‑Natal – eThekwini (Durban): beach cleaning, lifeguard trainees, park maintenance, community safety.
- Western Cape – Cape Town: waste management, law‑enforcement trainees, cleaning crews.
- Eastern Cape – Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay: general workers, admin assistants, traffic interns.
- Free State – Mangaung Metro: waste removal, cemetery workers, public works labourers.
- Limpopo – Capricorn, Vhembe, Sekhukhune: cleaning teams, safety assistants, environmental work.
- Mpumalanga – Mbombela, Gert Sibande: road maintenance, waste removal, general labour.
- North West – Rustenburg, Mahikeng: municipal labour, park assistants.
- Northern Cape – Sol Plaatje: waste cleaning, cemetery cleaning, office help.
(The exact list may change, so keep an eye on your local municipality’s website or Facebook page.)
How to apply for an EPWP job
- Gather your papers – ID, proof of address, a simple one‑page CV, any short training certificates.
- Visit the local council office – EPWP jobs are usually not posted online. Go to your ward councillor, youth office, or community hall.
- Keep your phone ready – You’ll often get a call when a spot opens.
- Never pay anyone – The EPWP is free. If someone asks money, it’s a scam.
Tips to boost your chances
- Apply as soon as the job advert appears.
- Have all documents certified and ready.
- Keep your CV neat – one page, simple format.
- Build a good relationship with your ward councillor.
- Follow your municipality’s Facebook page.
- Check Edupstairs daily for verified job posts.
Quick FAQ
What does EPWP stand for?
Expanded Public Works Programme.Can I apply without a matric?
Yes. Some roles need only grade 8‑10, others grade 12.How much do I get paid?
Between R2,500 and R3,500 per month.Where do I submit my application?
At your local municipality, ward office or community hall.Can I work in EPWP again?
Some municipalities allow one cycle, others allow 2‑3.
Want more opportunities?
If you’re also interested in other training or bursary programs, check out our guide to SETA Bursaries you can still apply for this year.
Why EPWP matters
The EPWP helps stop unemployment and builds important services for communities all over South Africa. It’s a good stepping stone if you’re looking for experience or a path to a permanent city job.
Keep visiting Edupstairs for updated and verified EPWP posts, local municipality vacancies, and official public‑works adverts.
Note
Edupstairs is not part of the EPWP or any municipality. We simply publish official job information so people can find and apply for jobs safely.
