The Department of Basic Education (DBE) in South Africa has announced several employment opportunities aimed at strengthening its workforce and improving service delivery in the education sector. The department is committed to promoting equal employment opportunities and affirmative action, ensuring that recruitment aligns with the goals outlined in its Employment Equity Plan.
As part of its commitment to transformation, the DBE encourages women and people with disabilities to apply. Preference will be given to candidates from underrepresented groups in accordance with the department’s Employment Equity targets. These vacancies provide an excellent opportunity for qualified professionals who are interested in contributing to the development and management of the national basic education system.
Commitment to Employment Equity
The DBE strives to create a diverse and inclusive workplace. During the recruitment process, applicants are required to indicate their race, gender, and disability status. This information helps the department achieve its employment equity goals and ensure fair representation within the organisation.
The department’s recruitment approach supports the broader transformation agenda of the public service sector in South Africa, ensuring opportunities are distributed fairly while attracting talented individuals capable of supporting education development.
How to Apply
Interested applicants may submit their applications through the following methods:
By Post:
Private Bag X895, Pretoria, 0001
Hand Delivery:
Department of Basic Education
222 Struben Street, Pretoria
Email Applications:
Recruitment@dbe.gov.za
Applicants are also encouraged to visit the following websites for additional information:
- The DBE website: www.education.gov.za
- The public service vacancy circulars at: www.dpsa.gov.za
For enquiries:
Ms M Mahape – Tel: (012) 357 3291
Ms N Kumalo – Tel: (012) 357 3398
Closing Date for Applications: 27 March 2026
Important Application Requirements
All applications must be submitted using the latest approved Z83 Application for Employment Form, which can be obtained from the DBE website or any public service department, Key points to note:
- The Z83 form must be fully completed, and page 2 must be signed.
- Applicants must clearly indicate the post title and reference number on the Z83 form.
- Only the Z83 form and a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) should be submitted during the initial application stage.
- Certified copies of qualifications and other documents will only be required from shortlisted candidates before the interview.
- Using an outdated Z83 form will lead to disqualification.
- Late or faxed applications will not be considered.
Shortlisted candidates will undergo Personnel Suitability Checks, which may include:
- Criminal record checks
- Citizenship verification
- Financial and asset record checks
- Qualification and employment verification
- Social media screening
Successful candidates will also be required to sign a performance agreement and declare financial interests annually.
Available Job Positions
1. Director: Legal Services
Reference Number: DBE/15/2026
Branch: Finance and Administration
Chief Directorate: Legal and Legislative Services
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R1 266 714 per annum
Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A Bachelor of Law (LLB) or equivalent legal qualification (NQF Level 7) recognised by SAQA
- At least 5 years of experience at middle or senior management level
- Experience in Education Law
- Admission as an Attorney or Advocate
- Strong knowledge of the South African legal system
- Excellent leadership, strategic management, and communication skills
- Computer literacy in MS Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Access
- A valid driver’s license
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Manage the Legal Services Directorate
- Provide litigation support to the national and provincial education departments
- Offer legal advice to the department
- Monitor and support the implementation of education legislation
- Manage court cases involving the Minister and Director-General
- Draft legal opinions on national and international agreements
2. Provisioning Administrative Officer
Reference Number: DBE/17/2026
Branch: Finance and Administration
Directorate: Supply Chain Management
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R325 101 per annum
Requirements
- A three-year post-matric qualification (NQF Level 6) recognised by SAQA
- 1 year of experience in Supply Chain Management
- Experience with LOGIS system and the Central Supplier Database
- Knowledge of procurement regulations including the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA)
- Good organisational, communication, and computer skills
Duties
The selected candidate will:
- Source quotations from registered suppliers
- Ensure procurement processes comply with government regulations
- Support Bid Specification and Evaluation Committees
- Manage LOGIS transactions including requisitions and payment authorisations
- Supervise junior staff and monitor performance
3. Senior Secretary
Reference Number: DBE/19/2026
Branch: Finance and Administration
Directorate: Supply Chain Management
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R269 499 per annum
Requirements
- Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification
- Knowledge of public sector operations
- Good administrative and organisational skills
- Strong telephone etiquette and communication skills
- Computer literacy in MS Office
Duties
Responsibilities include:
- Providing secretarial and administrative support to the Director
- Managing appointments and travel arrangements
- Handling incoming calls and correspondence
- Preparing reports and maintaining a filing system
- Coordinating meetings, workshops, and logistics
4. Senior Provisioning Administration Clerk (Travel)
Reference Number: DBE/18/2026
Branch: Finance and Administration
Directorate: Supply Chain Management
Location: Pretoria
Salary: R228 321 per annum
Requirements
- Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification
- Knowledge of travel and accommodation procedures
- Understanding of BAS system, Treasury Regulations, and National Travel Policy Framework
- Strong communication and organisational skills
Duties
The successful candidate will:
- Process travel approval forms (VA26A)
- Issue order numbers and maintain records
- Capture invoices in the BAS system
- Manage travel documentation and electronic filing
- Resolve travel-related financial queries
Additional Assessment Requirements
Candidates shortlisted for these positions may be required to undergo:
- Practical assessments to evaluate technical competency
- Integrity and ethical conduct assessments
- Managerial competency evaluations for senior management roles
Applicants applying for Senior Management Service (SMS) positions must also complete the SMS Pre-Entry Programme available through the National School of Government.
Final Thoughts
These vacancies at the Department of Basic Education provide valuable opportunities for professionals seeking to build careers within South Africa’s public service sector. With positions ranging from senior management to administrative roles, qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the 27 March 2026 deadline. Working within the DBE offers the chance to play a meaningful role in strengthening the country’s education system while contributing to national development and public service excellence.
