The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport has announced eight Groundsman vacancies for job seekers interested in gardening, grounds maintenance and general outdoor work. The positions are available in Newcastle, Ladysmith and Estcourt within the Ladysmith Region.
These are entry-level government employment opportunities requiring applicants to have AET Level 4 or Grade 9. Successful candidates will be appointed at Salary Level 02, with a salary of R144,024 per annum. Applications must be submitted before the 28 August 2026 closing date.
Department of Transport Groundsman Vacancies 2026 – Overview
| Job Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Employer | KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport |
| Position | Groundsman |
| Number of Posts | 8 |
| Salary | R144,024 per annum |
| Salary Level | Level 02 |
| Region | Ladysmith Region, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Minimum Qualification | AET Level 4 / Grade 9 |
| Closing Date | 28 August 2026 |
Available Groundsman Posts
The eight vacancies are distributed across three locations:
1. Cost Centre, Newcastle
- Number of Posts: 1
- Reference Number: DOT 229/2026
2. Ladysmith Regional Office
- Number of Posts: 1
- Reference Number: DOT 230/2026
3. Cost Centre, Estcourt
- Number of Posts: 6
- Reference Number: DOT 231/2026
Applicants should ensure that they use the correct reference number for the position and location they are applying for.
Department of Transport Groundsman Requirements
To be considered for the Groundsman vacancies, applicants must meet the minimum educational requirement of AET Level 4 or Grade 9.
Candidates should also have knowledge and skills in areas such as:
- Knowledge of plants and basic gardening techniques.
- Knowledge of health and safety rules and regulations.
- Ability to operate horticultural machinery.
- Ability to use powered hand tools and gardening equipment.
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills.
- Good written communication skills.
- Good verbal communication skills.
- Good interpersonal skills.
The Department is also looking for individuals who are punctual, reliable, responsible and capable of working effectively as part of a team. Applicants should demonstrate honesty and integrity when performing their duties.
Groundsman Duties and Responsibilities
Successful candidates will assist with maintaining Department of Transport facilities, gardens and surrounding areas.
Cleaning and Maintaining Premises
The duties may include:
- Cleaning buildings and surrounding areas.
- Emptying dirt and waste bins.
- Keeping outdoor areas clean and presentable.
- Maintaining the general appearance of Departmental premises.
Gardening and Grounds Maintenance
Groundsmen will be responsible for a range of gardening activities, including:
- Watering gardens.
- Pruning and trimming flowers.
- Pruning and trimming trees.
- Mowing grass.
- Removing weeds.
- Removing garden refuse.
- Applying insecticides when required.
- Cultivating soil for trees and flowers.
Maintaining Gardening Tools and Equipment
Employees may also be required to:
- Identify malfunctioning gardening equipment and tools.
- Report damaged or faulty equipment.
- Carry out minor repairs to gardening equipment and tools where possible.
- Ensure gardening equipment is properly maintained and used safely.
How to Apply for Department of Transport Groundsman Vacancies
Applicants should submit their applications using only one application method. Candidates can either apply through the KZN online e-Recruitment system or submit a hard-copy application as instructed by the Department.
Apply Online
Applicants can use the KZN online e-Recruitment system to submit their applications. When completing the online application, applicants should carefully select the Groundsman position and the correct reference number.
Apply by Post
Hard-copy applications may be sent to:
Recruitment & Selection Section
Human Resource Administration Directorate
Private Bag X9043
Pietermaritzburg
3200
Applicants should clearly quote the relevant reference number on their application.
Hand-Deliver Applications
Applications can also be hand-delivered to:
Office of the Department of Transport
Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House
172 Burger Street
Pietermaritzburg
Applicants are advised not to submit the same application through more than one method.
Closing Date for Groundsman Vacancies
The closing date for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport Groundsman vacancies is: 28 August 2026, Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible. Late applications may not be considered.
Enquiries
For enquiries regarding these Groundsman positions, applicants can contact:
Ms XG Nxumalo
Telephone: (036) 638 4400
Employment Equity
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport has indicated that its employment equity targets will be considered when filling the advertised positions.
Why Apply for These Groundsman Jobs?
These vacancies provide an opportunity for individuals with Grade 9 or AET Level 4 to pursue employment within the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government. With eight Groundsman posts available, including six positions based at the Estcourt Cost Centre, the opportunity may be particularly relevant to job seekers in Newcastle, Ladysmith, Estcourt and surrounding areas. If you meet the requirements, make sure your application is complete, use the correct reference number and submit it before the 28 August 2026 deadline.
