PERSAL CONTROLLER: PERSAL AND ESTABLISHMENT CONTROL

This position, based within the Department of the Premier in the Western Cape Government, centres on the control, maintenance and strategic administration of the PERSAL human resource and payroll system, with a specific focus on establishment control. As a Persal Controller, you will operate at a senior administrative level, ensuring that the system remains accurate, compliant and fully aligned with national and provincial legislative frameworks. The role is particularly significant because it supports not only the Department of the Premier but also provides user administration functions for eleven provincial departments, making it a pivotal coordination point for payroll and establishment integrity across the Western Cape public service.

To be considered, candidates must hold an appropriate three-year tertiary qualification, such as a National Diploma, B-Degree or equivalent, and have at least three years of practical experience in payroll and people management. Beyond these formal requirements, the role demands a thorough working knowledge of the Code of Remuneration and Occupational Specific Dispensation, as well as the ability to interpret and implement applicable policies, legislation and prescripts. This includes familiarity with the Public Service Amendment Act, Public Service Regulations and the Labour Relations Act. A sound grasp of basic financial administration in line with relevant prescripts is also essential, alongside the practical ability to operate the PERSAL system across its key modules, including Establishment, Personnel Administration, Salary Administration, Service Terminations and Leave Administration. Strong computer literacy, numeracy and communication skills are required, as is the capacity to solve problems, think analytically, plan and organise activities, resolve conflicts, and compile documentation. You will also be expected to deliver presentations, facilitate discussions, and monitor, evaluate and report on activities.

The core duties are wide-ranging. You will be responsible for updating and maintaining the PERSAL system, facilitating PERSAL training, managing System Change Control processes, auditing PERSAL transactions and coordinating system enhancements. Establishment administration forms a major part of the role, as does the execution of various PERSAL reports. In addition, the position carries people management responsibilities, meaning you will oversee and support staff within the unit. Given the breadth of these duties, the role requires someone who can work independently, exercise sound judgement and maintain a high level of accuracy under pressure.

Shortlisted candidates should note that the selection process includes interviews, the submission of vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe, and two pre-entry assessments: one practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and another assessing integrity and ethical conduct. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the department. By applying, candidates consent to reference checks with previous employers, which may include enquiries about disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. This is an OSD-graded position at Level 08, and applications must be submitted online before the advertised closing date, as late submissions will not be considered.