SENIOR LEGAL ADMINISTRATION OFFICER MR6

This senior legal role sits within the Corporate Management Services directorate at the Department of Community Safety’s Head Office in Johannesburg. As a Senior Legal Administration Officer, the incumbent forms part of a team responsible for safeguarding the department’s legal interests and ensuring that its operations align with applicable legislation. The position is graded on the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) remuneration structure and is based at the provincial head office, where the officer will work closely with programme managers, the State Attorney, and external legal practitioners.

The core of the role is litigation management. The officer will assess the merits of claims made by or against the department, consult with relevant internal officials, liaise with the State Attorney or private attorneys, and prepare for and attend court trials. Maintaining an updated case register and reporting on the litigation status to departmental leadership are also key responsibilities. In addition to litigation, the role carries a strong legislative compliance element. The officer is expected to conduct workshops on legislation affecting the department, including sessions that empower traffic officers with knowledge of their enabling legislation, as well as workshops introducing new or amended laws. The third major pillar is legal advisory services. This involves critically analysing documents related to legal questions, consulting with and advising departmental programmes, and providing both reactive and proactive advice to support sound decision-making across the department. The officer must also ensure that responses to claims are made timeously and in line with legal prescripts.

Candidates must hold a Matric certificate and a law degree or relevant legal qualification at NQF level 7, coupled with eight years of legal advisory experience. A valid code 08/10 driver’s licence and a clean criminal record are required. The department looks for professionals with strong knowledge of legal processes, legislative prescripts, legal research methods, Gauteng Provincial Government policies, and public service procedures. An understanding of community safety strategies and the department’s strategic objectives is essential. Practical skills expected include project management, report writing, policy analysis and development, conflict resolution, problem solving, and computer literacy. The successful candidate should also demonstrate sound judgement, integrity, innovation, and a customer-focused, people-oriented approach, along with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

This is a demanding role for a decisive and resourceful legal professional. The position is subject to the department’s recruitment and vetting processes, including pre-entry assessments and personnel suitability checks. The department applies an equity target that encourages applications from youth, people with disabilities, and Coloured, Indian, and White candidates, with a medical confirmation required for applicants with disabilities.