HR PRACTITIONER: HR PLANNING AND PMDS

This position offers an opportunity to contribute to the strategic human resource functions of a provincial government department, specifically within the Human Resource Planning and Performance Management and Development System (PMDS) Sub-Directorate at the Head Office in Mbombela. As an HR Practitioner focused on HR Planning and PMDS, the role is central to ensuring that employee performance management processes run smoothly, are administratively sound, and align with government regulations. The incumbent will work within a structured public service environment, supporting the department’s broader goals of effective workforce planning, organisational development, and compliance with employment equity requirements. This is an operational yet influential role, requiring a solid understanding of public service human resource frameworks and the ability to manage multiple administrative processes simultaneously.

To be considered for this role, applicants must possess a SAQA-recognised tertiary qualification at NQF level 6 in Human Resource Management, Public Management, or Public Administration, coupled with at least two years of relevant experience within an HRM environment. A valid driver’s licence is essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a sound working knowledge of government HR frameworks, including the PERSAL system, the performance management and development system, and relevant human resource prescripts. Familiarity with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and the Employment Equity Act is also required. Strong verbal and written communication skills, computer literacy in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and the ability to manage conflict and work under pressure are all important. Furthermore, the role demands an ability to analyse, interpret, and apply legislation, policies, and prescripts accurately.

The core duties of this position revolve around the full administration of the PMDS cycle. This includes facilitating the submission of performance agreements, mid-term assessments, and annual assessments, conducting quality assurance on submitted documents, and capturing all relevant data on PERSAL. The practitioner will also be responsible for maintaining an accurate and up-to-date PMDS database, facilitating the implementation of annual assessment outcomes such as pay progression, and preparing moderation outcome letters. In addition, the role supports employment equity by facilitating the development of the EE Plan and EE Reports, and assists in preparing the cost per head document. Secretariat services to committees facilitated by the Human Resource Planning and PMDS Sub-Directorate also form part of the responsibilities, along with maintaining an HR policies register and a database of job descriptions and job evaluation results.

Candidates should note that this is a government position subject to standard recruitment and vetting processes. Shortlisted applicants will be required to submit certified documents before interviews and must ensure any foreign qualifications are evaluated by SAQA. Applicants must disclose any business interests with the state or additional remunerative work outside their official duties. Shortlisted candidates will undergo interviews, and the top candidates will be subjected to personnel suitability checks, including criminal record, citizenship, financial assets, qualifications, and reference verification. The successful candidate will be required to enter into an annual performance agreement and disclose financial interests annually. The department reserves the right not to fill the post, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If no feedback is received within three months of the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.