LABOUR RELATIONS OFFICER: EMPLOYEE RELATIONS, COMPLIANCE & LABOUR RELATIONS ADVOCACY (EEA) (X4 POSTS)

This vacancy, for four Labour Relations Officer positions, falls within the Employee Relations, Compliance and Labour Relations Advocacy component at the Head Office in Zwelitsha. The role is central to maintaining sound labour relations within the education department, acting as an authoritative point of contact for both the employer and employees on a range of workplace disputes and disciplinary matters. Officers will be expected to apply their knowledge of labour legislation to real-world cases, ensuring that procedures are followed fairly and that the department’s interests are properly represented in formal processes. The position carries a degree of responsibility that demands a solid grounding in labour law, practical investigative skill, and the confidence to advocate on behalf of the employer in hearings and other official platforms.

To be considered, candidates must hold a qualification at NQF level 6 in Labour Relations, Labour Law, Human Resources Management, or Industrial Relations, alongside at least two to three years of hands-on experience within a labour relations or labour law environment. A valid driver’s licence is required. The role calls for thorough working knowledge of the Labour Relations Act, the Employment of Educators’ Act, the Public Service Act, and Public Service Regulations, as well as broader employment legislation and policies. In addition, applicants should demonstrate strong verbal and written communication, strategic planning and leadership abilities, presentation and facilitation skills, report writing, people management, monitoring and evaluation, negotiation and conflict resolution, and computer literacy. A customer-focused approach is important, and prior knowledge of the education sector will serve as a distinct advantage.

The core duties of the successful candidate will include managing misconduct cases from initiation through to conclusion, conducting investigations and compiling detailed reports, and facilitating grievance procedures. This includes investigating grievances received, identifying findings, and making recommendations. The officer will also provide advice and guidance on labour relations matters, manage dispute cases effectively, and facilitate the resolution of disputes. A key responsibility is drafting submissions for mandates and representing the employer in disciplinary hearings, which requires a strong ability to prepare legal arguments and present evidence clearly. The position therefore balances administrative, analytical, and advocacy functions, making it suitable for individuals who can work independently while also engaging constructively with a range of stakeholders.

Successful applicants will be subject to a personnel suitability check, including criminal record verification, citizenship, financial or asset records, qualification verification, and previous employment verification. All shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment, and a skills or knowledge test may also apply where relevant. The department is committed to employment equity and will adhere to its affirmative action targets, while welcoming applications from all racial groups; females and people with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply. A probation period will apply upon appointment, and applicants should note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This position offers a structured entry into a specialised labour relations career within the public sector, with clear duties and a professional environment that values compliance, fairness, and sound legal practice.