GENERAL FOREMAN (X2 POSTS) Branch: Water And Sanitation Services Management: WC Cd: Provincial Operations: Western Cape

The Department of Water and Sanitation is seeking to fill two General Foreman positions within its Western Cape Provincial Operations, specifically under the Water and Sanitation Services Management branch. These roles are based in Worcester and George and are essential to supporting the department’s mandate of managing and maintaining water infrastructure across the province. The successful incumbents will be responsible for leading small teams in the field, ensuring that gauging stations, rivers, canals, dams, and related infrastructure are maintained to operational standards. This is a hands-on supervisory role that requires a blend of technical knowledge, practical skill, and the ability to work in remote and sometimes challenging environments.

Candidates must hold at least a Grade 8 certificate and have between one and two years of relevant experience in general civil maintenance work. A valid, unexpired driver’s licence is essential, as the role involves transporting subordinates and equipment to and from sites. The department is looking for individuals with knowledge and experience in building and construction, as well as an understanding of bulk water supply maintenance on equipment. Good communication skills and computer literacy are also required, along with a working knowledge of policy implementation, personnel and equipment supervision, and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Familiarity with public administration, water utilisation and resource strategy, and government legislation will stand applicants in good stead. The ability to work effectively in a team, punctuality, productivity, and loyalty are all key personal attributes.

The duties of the General Foreman are varied and include supervising and mentoring subordinates, transporting teams to sites, and implementing planned routine maintenance such as painting and weed control at gauging stations. The role also involves planned structural maintenance, including replacing steel components, and carrying out refurbishment projects at river and canal gauging stations. The incumbent will conduct inspections according to set standards, assist with the construction of gauging weirs and infrastructure, and support technical tasks such as instrument installations and flood monitoring when required. Additional responsibilities include maintaining camping facilities, ensuring machinery and tools are properly cared for, clearing access roads to gauging points, and delivering damaged equipment to supervisors. The General Foreman must keep job cards up to date, perform basic risk assessments before work begins, and comply with all safety regulations. Any faults, defects, or safety hazards must be reported promptly to the supervisor.

This position demands a willingness to work away from the office for extended periods and to operate in or near rivers, dams, and canals. Travel is a regular part of the job. The department is an equal opportunity employer and will apply the principles of the Employment Equity Act, with preference given to candidates from designated groups, particularly women and persons with disabilities. Shortlisted applicants will be subject to suitability checks, including qualification verification, reference checks, and criminal and credit checks. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate, and foreign nationals or dual citizens must provide a police clearance from their country of origin. Applications are submitted online, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The department reserves the right not to fill these posts.