Looking for a stable job right now? The Thapelo Madiba Bursary programme shows how government support can change lives, and the Public Service Vacancy Circular 38 of 2026 offers many similar chances for South Africans to start a career in the public sector.
What the opportunity is
The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has released Public Service Vacancy Circular 38 of 2026. It lists current vacancies in 19 national departments, several institutions, and eight provincial administrations. The circular was published on 23 October 2026. Closing dates differ by department and position.
Who can apply
Any South African who meets the qualification and experience criteria shown in each vacancy may apply. Typical educational levels include:
- Grade 10 or Grade 11
- Grade 12 / Matric
- National Certificate (N4, N5, N6)
- National Diploma
- Bachelor’s, Honours or Master’s degree
- Professional and technical qualifications
Some roles also require work experience, a professional registration, or a valid driver’s licence. Always read the specific advertisement before you apply.
What you gain
Government jobs give you:
- Job security and a regular salary
- Pension and medical benefits
- Opportunities to develop specialised skills
- Experience in fields such as administration, finance, HR, supply chain, IT, health, engineering, education, law, security, and environmental management
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
Click here to open DPSA Circular 38 of 2026 – this PDF contains every vacancy and the exact application instructions.
- Download the circular.
- Choose the national department or provincial administration where you want to work.
- Find a position that matches your qualifications.
- Read the duties, salary, minimum requirements, reference number and closing date carefully.
- Prepare the documents requested (see below).
- Complete the Z83 application form if the vacancy requires it.
- Submit your application exactly as instructed – via email, post, hand‑delivery, or the department’s online portal.
Documents you may need
- Completed Z83 Application for Employment form (if required)
- Current CV
- Copies of academic certificates
- South African ID document (if requested)
- Driver’s licence (if applicable)
- Professional registration documents (if required)
- Any other supporting papers mentioned in the advertisement
Tips to improve your chances
- Apply only for posts where you meet all minimum criteria.
- Use the exact job title and reference number in your application.
- Fill the Z83 form accurately and sign it.
- Attach clear, legible copies of all required documents.
- Follow the contact details or portal specified for each vacancy.
- Submit before the advertised deadline – late applications are not considered.
- Beware of scams; never pay anyone to secure a government job.
National departments with vacancies
- Department of Agriculture
- Department of Basic Education
- Department of Correctional Services
- Department of Employment and Labour
- Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
- Government Printing Works
- Department of Health
- Department of Higher Education and Training
- Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID)
- Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services
- Department of Land Reform and Rural Development
- Office of the Chief Justice
- Department of Public Works and Infrastructure
- Department of Small Business Development
- South African Police Service (SAPS)
- Department of Tourism
- National Treasury
- Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
- The Presidency
Provincial administrations with vacancies
- Eastern Cape Government
- Gauteng Government
- KwaZulu‑Natal Government
- Limpopo Government
- Mpumalanga Government
- Northern Cape Government
- North West Government
- Western Cape Government
The Free State is not listed in this circular.
Next steps
Start by downloading the circular, pick the departments that interest you, and gather the required paperwork. Follow each department’s instructions exactly and submit before the deadline. With careful preparation you can turn this opportunity into a lasting public‑service career.
