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This vacancy is for a Chief Network Controller, a supervisory-level information technology post based at the Provincial Office, within the Chief Directorate for Corporate Services and the Directorate for Support Services. The role is central to the department’s ICT operations, combining hands-on technical oversight with people management and strategic planning. The successful candidate will ensure that servers, networks, and cloud infrastructure are installed, configured, maintained, and secured in line with public service regulations and Batho Pele principles.

Applicants must have a Grade 12 certificate and a SAQA-recognised National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree at NQF level 6 or 7 in Information Technology, Information Technology Management, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science, coupled with at least three years’ experience at a supervisory level in the ICT field. A valid driver’s licence is essential. The department requires knowledge of monitoring and evaluation, the public service regulatory framework, government programmes, information management, and performance management. Technical knowledge should include IT service management and performance monitoring tools, Microsoft Azure cloud services, networking and security, Microsoft 365 E5 licence administration, server and network administration including Windows Server, Active Directory, DNS and DHCP, cloud and on-premises infrastructure monitoring, IT security policies, risk management, cybersecurity best practices, and backup and disaster recovery planning. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate competencies in programme and project management, change management, problem-solving and conflict resolution, presentation, people management and empowerment, client orientation, communication, honesty and integrity, knowledge management, negotiation, and teamwork.

The main duties span the full ICT environment. The Chief Network Controller will facilitate the installation, configuration, and maintenance of servers, networks, and cloud infrastructure; configure servers and network devices; consult with external service providers for LAN, cloud, and server support; and monitor desktop support and training. The role includes monitoring server performance, testing and installing Windows updates, creating user accounts and mailboxes, and maintaining the uptime of the LAN link. The position also carries responsibility for ICT governance and resilience: facilitating and maintaining ICT infrastructure, ICT risks, ICT security, and continuity plans, storing and backing up departmental data, and ensuring user data availability. The incumbent will implement patch management and anti-virus solutions, maintain IT security and cybersecurity infrastructure, enforce security policies for the safekeeping and storage of data, and conduct regular IT security reviews and risk assessments. In addition, the role involves facilitating and maintaining ICT services and assets, monitoring user problem resolution, maintaining the ICT service charter, managing user access rights and reviews, implementing an ICT service desk system, and monitoring the ICT asset database, register, and verification.

As a supervisor, the post-holder will manage the allocated resources of the sub-directorate, employee performance, and coaching, mentorship, training, and development of staff. The position also entails developing and implementing the unit plan, managing the unit’s assets, financial management, and developing and implementing the unit’s standard operating procedures. The Chief Network Controller will additionally attend to Internal Audit and Auditor-General requests, outcomes, and findings, and manage communication within the unit. This is a demanding public-service position suited to a technically strong, people-oriented leader who can work within government frameworks and uphold ethical conduct. A named contact person and telephone number for enquiries are provided in the advertised vacancy.