The South African Department of Defence has announced several job opportunities for individuals interested in serving their country while securing stable employment. These positions cover a wide range of fields, from academic roles at the Military Academy to administrative and technical positions within the defence sector.


Available Job Opportunities at the Department of Defence

The Department of Defence has various vacancies across multiple departments. Here are some of the notable positions currently available

Military Academy Teaching Positions

The Military Academy in Saldanha is looking for qualified professionals to fill the following academic positions

Department of Military Management

  • Positions Available Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Professor
  • Salary Range R444036 to R1000908 per annum
  • Requirements
    • An Honours Degree minimum or a Doctorate for higher positions
    • Teaching experience at a tertiary level
    • Research experience in strategic management, logistics, or financial and business management
  • Duties
    • Teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels
    • Developing syllabuses and learning materials
    • Conducting research in accredited journals

Location Training Command, Military Academy, Saldanha

Department of Military Technology

  • Positions Available Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Professor
  • Salary Range R444036 to R1000908 per annum
  • Requirements
    • Masters or PhD in Mechanical, Mechatronic, or Industrial Engineering
    • Experience in military technology and aviation
    • Programming skills MATLAB, modeling, and simulation

Location Training Command, Military Academy, Saldanha

HR and Administrative Roles

If you are looking for non academic jobs, the Department of Defence also has vacancies in human resources, personnel management, and secretarial support

Senior Personnel Practitioner Further Education and Training

  • Salary R376413 per annum
  • Requirements
    • National Diploma in Human Resource Development or Education Training
    • Two to three years of experience in HRD
    • Computer literacy MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Location Pretoria

Personnel Official Recruitment and Selection

  • Salary R216417 per annum
  • Requirements
    • Grade 12 Certificate
    • HR experience is an advantage
    • Good communication skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office

Location Pretoria

Senior Secretary Grade II

  • Salary R216417 per annum
  • Requirements
    • Grade 12
    • Secretarial experience advantageous
    • Strong organizational and communication skills

Location Pretoria

General and Technical Positions

For those without formal tertiary education but with technical skills, the Department of Defence has opportunities in catering, administration, and logistics

Food Service Aid II

  • Salary R131265 per annum
  • Requirements
    • Basic literacy Grade 2 9 or ABET Level 1 4
    • Ability to operate heavy duty kitchen equipment
    • Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays

Location Military Academy, Saldanha

Why Work for the Department of Defence

The Department of Defence offers a unique working environment that provides stability, benefits, and an opportunity to contribute to national security. Whether you are an academic, an HR professional, or a skilled worker, there are positions suited to various qualifications and experiences.

Some of the benefits of working for the Department of Defence include

  • Job Security Government jobs provide long term stability
  • Professional Growth The Department encourages further education and skills development
  • Competitive Salaries Employees are well compensated according to government salary scales
  • Comprehensive Benefits Medical aid, pension funds, and housing allowances are part of the package

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How to Apply for Department of Defence Jobs

To apply for any of these positions, follow these steps

Download and Complete the Z83 Form

  • The Z83 form is the official government employment application form
  • It can be downloaded from the DPSA website www.dpsa.gov.za

Attach a Detailed CV

Your CV must include

  • Full personal details
  • Work experience
  • Education qualifications
  • Contactable references

Note Do not include certified copies of qualifications upfront. Only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies.

Submit Your Application

Applications can be emailed or hand delivered to the addresses specified in the job advertisement. Make sure to use the correct reference number for each post.

Application Deadline

Closing Date 28 February 2025

Read more: Step-by-Step Guide to Using the ESSA Portal for Government Jobs

Selection Process and Requirements

  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
  • Applicants will undergo Personnel Suitability Checks criminal record, financial, and citizenship verification
  • Successful candidates must undergo security clearance
  • Academic positions require pre entry assessments practical and ethical tests

The Department of Defence offers meaningful employment opportunities in various fields. Whether you are an academic, an administrator, or a skilled worker, these positions provide stability, career growth, and an opportunity to serve your country.

Pro Tip Make sure to submit your application before the closing date and follow all instructions carefully to increase your chances of success

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