ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SECURITY

The Department of Employment and Economy is seeking a suitably qualified and experienced professional to fill the role of Assistant Director: Information Technology Security at its Head Office in Pretoria. This is a managerial-level position within the department’s ICT unit, graded at Level 09, and forms part of the broader public service career structure. The successful candidate will be responsible for safeguarding the department’s information systems and ensuring that all ICT operations align with national security standards and legislative frameworks. This role is central to maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of the department’s digital infrastructure, and it requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic oversight, and leadership capability.

Applicants must possess an appropriate National Diploma in Information Technology Management, Computer Sciences, or Computer Systems Engineering at NQF Level 6, recognised by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). This qualification must be complemented by at least three years of relevant network technical or scientific experience, alongside extensive experience in IT software. A thorough understanding of information security standards and guidelines is essential, as is knowledge of Public Service information security directives. Familiarity with key legislation and regulations, including the Cybersecurity Act, the Public Service Act, the Public Service Regulations, and the Public Finance Management Act, is also required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent managerial, communication, and interpersonal skills, strong leadership and organisational abilities, and a client-focused approach. Additional competencies include negotiation and consultation skills, problem-solving and analysis, strategic capability, and expertise across all areas of information technology, as well as creativity and innovation. The role demands advanced strategic and business analysis, change management within the public service context, budget and financial management, policy development, strategic planning, project management, and a working knowledge of government policies and programmes relevant to the department.

The core duties of this position are multifaceted. The Assistant Director will provide inputs on the development and review of ICT security policies, procedures, and guidelines, ensuring alignment with ICT governance frameworks and the directives of the State Security Agency. The role involves enforcing compliance with ICT security control measures across the department, as well as assisting with the administration of ICT contracts and service level agreements. The incumbent will be responsible for installing the latest security patches, firmware, and updates to maintain system integrity, and will contribute to the implementation of ICT disaster recovery plans. In the event of security incidents, the Assistant Director will assist with ICT security investigations, implement corrective actions, and deploy appropriate security tools. The position also carries managerial responsibilities, including overseeing staff and ensuring the effective delivery of the unit’s objectives.

This vacancy is advertised as part of the Public Service Vacancy Circular, and the department actively encourages females and males from the Indian, Coloured, and White population groups to apply, in line with its employment equity targets. This is a full-time, permanent appointment based in Pretoria, and interested candidates should note that the application process requires submission via email as specified in the full advertisement. The role offers a competitive public service salary package and provides an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the department’s digital security posture while advancing a career in ICT governance and cybersecurity within the South African public sector.