DPSA Circular 17 of 2025
Additional Information
The Public Service Vacancy Circular is a vital resource for job seekers aiming to build a career in the South African public service sector. Issued weekly by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA)—except in December—it features updated job opportunities across national and provincial government departments. This circular serves as the principal publication for recruiting individuals into the public sector workforce.
Background & Job Description
The Public Service Vacancy Circular provides a centralized listing of vacant posts within various Public Service departments, such as Health, Education, Home Affairs, and others. It supports the principles of transparency and equal opportunity by ensuring that all eligible South Africans have access to information on government employment opportunities. While the circular is compiled by the DPSA, the actual content and responsibility for each advert lie with the respective recruiting departments.
Job seekers can apply for any of the positions listed, provided they meet the specified requirements and adhere to the application guidelines, including submission of a completed Z83 application form. These positions span across different levels—from entry-level roles to senior management posts.
Tasks
Successful applicants in the public sector may be tasked with a variety of responsibilities depending on their job function, such as:
- Implementing departmental programmes and policies
- Providing administrative support
- Conducting research and compiling reports
- Delivering public services to citizens in health, education, or municipal sectors
- Monitoring and evaluating programme performance
- Ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks
- Managing teams and departmental resources
Qualifications
Applicants are typically required to possess the following qualifications, which vary according to the post:
- Matric certificate (Grade 12) for entry-level positions
- National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in the relevant field (e.g., Public Administration, Finance, Education, Health Sciences, etc.)
- Postgraduate qualifications for more senior or specialized roles
- Proof of professional registration or certification, where applicable (e.g., for legal, medical, or engineering positions)
Experience
The experience required will vary depending on the nature and seniority of the post:
- No prior experience for internships or graduate entry-level roles
- 1–3 years of relevant experience for junior or administrative roles
- 5+ years of experience for middle-management and specialist roles
- 10+ years of experience, including strategic leadership, for Senior Management Service (SMS) positions, which also require the SMS Pre-entry Certificate
Brief Company Contact Details
Applications should be directed to the department advertising the vacancy, not the Department of Public Service and Administration. Applicants must ensure that:
- Their application reaches the correct department before the closing date
- Enquiries about specific posts are directed to the department responsible for that post
To apply, use the new Z83 application form, available in editable and printable formats from:
👉 Editable Z83 Form – DPSA Website
For those applying for SMS posts, access the compulsory pre-entry training course here:
👉 SMS Pre-entry Course – NSG
