SENIOR SECURITY OFFICER

The Senior Security Officer position, based at the Mmabatho Regional Office, offers an opportunity to take responsibility for the day-to-day security operations of a government department. The role is essentially a supervisory and administrative security post, ideal for someone with a Grade 12 certificate and a Grade B PSIRA registration, as no prior work experience is required. This makes it an entry-level supervisory position for individuals who wish to build a career in public sector security management, with the department providing the environment to develop practical skills in access control, emergency response, and security administration.

The successful candidate will be expected to supervise the security functions carried out by both internal security officers and external service providers, ensuring that all activities align with departmental security policies. This includes allocating duties, monitoring performance, and taking corrective action where standards are not met. A central part of the role is managing access control to prevent unauthorised entry into buildings and premises, as well as authorising the movement of equipment, documents, and stores in and out of the facilities. The officer will also be responsible for inspecting security equipment such as X-ray machines, walk-through metal detectors, and security lighting, reporting any malfunctions, and ensuring that systems are serviced and operating optimally.

Administrative duties form a significant component of the job. The Senior Security Officer will determine rosters, shift schedules, and overtime, monitor employee performance, identify training needs, and manage leave and related personnel matters in line with human resource procedures. The role also involves administering the key control system, identifying security risks and threats, and reporting incidents to investigating officers. In the event of emergencies, the officer must monitor the situation and provide support. Additionally, the position requires managing control room operations, responding to alarm systems, reviewing closed-circuit television footage through proper procedures, conducting preliminary incident investigations, and submitting reports. Maintaining accurate registers for all incidents observed is a key responsibility.

Candidates must possess sound knowledge of access control procedures, the control and movement of equipment and stores, and relevant security prescripts such as the Minimum Information Security Standards, the National Intelligence Security Act, and the Protection of Information Act. They should also understand the authority of security officers under these documents. Effective communication, analytical, numerical, organisational, and planning skills are essential, along with the ability to work under stress, meet deadlines, work in a team, and operate security equipment and computers. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and motivational skills are also required.

Applicants should note that this is a public service position, and the appointment is subject to standard government recruitment processes. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo vetting and verification, and any foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority. Applications must be submitted using the prescribed Z83 form and a detailed curriculum vitae, with certified documents only required for shortlisted candidates. Given the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, so those who do not receive feedback within three months of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.