Client Service Officer: Public Employment Service

This position offers an opportunity to work at the front line of South Africa’s public employment services, based at the Makhado Labour Centre within the Department of Employment and Labour. As a Client Service Officer dedicated to the Public Employment Service, you will be part of the provincial operations structure under the Chief Director: Provincial Operations, with administrative oversight from the Sub-directorate: Human Resources Management in Polokwane. The role is central to helping job seekers connect with work and learning opportunities, and to supporting employers and training providers in registering opportunities through the Employment Services System of South Africa, commonly known as ESSA. This is a client-facing role that requires professionalism, empathy, and a solid understanding of the legislative framework governing employment services in the country.

To be considered for this role, you must have at least a Grade 12 or National Senior Certificate. Beyond the formal qualification, the department looks for candidates who possess sound knowledge of departmental policies, procedures and guidelines, as well as labour legislation and regulations. This includes familiarity with the Employment Services Act, the Public Service Act and its regulations, and the Batho Pele Principles that underpin service delivery in the public sector. On the skills side, computer literacy is essential, along with strong communication and interpersonal abilities. You will also need problem-solving skills, active listening skills, proper telephone etiquette, interviewing skills, and the ability to interpret legislation accurately in the context of daily client interactions.

The main duties of this role are varied and practical. You will be responsible for rendering registration services for work seekers on ESSA, ensuring their details are captured correctly and kept up to date. You will also register work and learning opportunities on the same system, which means liaising with employers and training providers to capture accurate information about available placements. Another key duty is referring work seekers for employment counselling services, which helps them prepare for the labour market and improve their chances of finding suitable work. You will provide administrative support with the placement of work seekers into work and learning opportunities, which may involve matching candidates to vacancies, arranging interviews, and following up on outcomes. In addition, you will render general administrative duties as required, and participate in advocacy sessions to promote the services of the department and raise awareness about employment programmes. These sessions may involve community outreach, information sessions, or collaboration with other stakeholders.

This is a permanent post within the public service, and the salary package is as indicated in the official advertisement. The position is based at the Makhado Labour Centre, and the successful candidate will be expected to work within the department’s policies and code of conduct. As with all public service vacancies, the selection process will take into account the department’s employment equity objectives, and candidates from designated groups are encouraged to apply. The closing date and application instructions are provided in the original circular, and it is important to submit your application through the prescribed channels before the deadline. This role is ideal for someone who is organised, people-oriented, and committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of work seekers and the broader community.