LABOUR RELATIONS OFFICER

This position offers an entry-level opportunity for a Labour Relations Officer within the Free State Department of Education, based in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District. The role is central to maintaining sound labour relations within the department by supporting the formal processes that govern misconduct, grievances, and disputes. The successful candidate will operate within the framework of public service labour legislation and will work closely with internal committees and external bodies such as the CCMA, PSCBC, and GPSSBC. This is an OSD-graded post, and the role is ideal for a recent graduate or someone with a recognised qualification in labour law or labour relations who is looking to build a career in public sector human resources.

To be considered, applicants must hold a Senior Certificate along with a recognised Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Labour Law, Labour Relations, or an equivalent qualification recognised by SAQA. No prior work experience is required, making this an excellent entry point for junior professionals. However, candidates must demonstrate a solid understanding of labour relations legislation and the processes involved in handling labour matters. Essential skills include computer literacy, strong written and verbal communication, facilitation, conflict resolution, analytical thinking, presentation, negotiation, organising, and interpersonal abilities. A working knowledge of public service processes, particularly those of the CCMA, PSCBC, and GPSSBC, is also required.

The core duties of the role involve conducting preliminary investigations into misconduct cases, grievances, and disputes, and reporting on the outcomes of those investigations. The officer will implement the department's misconduct, grievance, and dispute procedures, and provide advice on disciplinary, grievance, and dispute processes to management and staff. Administrative responsibilities include updating the labour relations information system, submitting monthly progress reports, and maintaining the disciplinary filing system. The role also involves reporting on strike actions, compiling and distributing meeting agendas, distributing minutes from previous meetings, and drafting minutes that accurately reflect discussions and decisions taken. This combination of investigative, advisory, and administrative work ensures the smooth functioning of labour relations processes across the district.

The department is committed to promoting representativity, and preference will be given to candidates from designated groups, particularly people with disabilities, women, and youth. Applicants should note that they are not required to submit copies of qualifications at the application stage; only shortlisted candidates will need to provide certified documents. All shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, including criminal record verification, citizenship and financial record checks, qualification verification, and may be asked to consent to access to their social media accounts. Correspondence is limited to shortlisted candidates, and separate applications must be submitted for each vacancy. Applicants who took voluntary severance packages may not apply, and salary progression is subject to performance assessment. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA, and non-RSA residents must provide proof of permanent residence when shortlisted. If no appointment notification is received within four months of the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful. New appointments must join the Government Employee Medical Scheme to qualify for a medical subsidy.