Assistant Director: Human Resource Management – Cape Town – Department Of Public Service And Administration

Assistant Director: Human Resource Management with the Department of Public Service and Administration in Cape Town, a rewarding government job in South Africa

Published 20 October 2026
Closing Date Closed
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Public Service and Administration is seeking an Assistant Director: Human Resource Management to join their Head Office team in Cape Town. This vital role is at the heart of ensuring effective people administration services, which directly impacts the efficiency and well-being of public service employees. Contributing to the management of appointments, transfers, and compliance, the successful candidate will play a crucial role in fostering a supportive work environment for those who serve the community.

As a key member of the HR team, the Assistant Director will oversee significant functions such as managing PERSAL and ensuring accurate administration of salaries and allowances. This position is not only about processes; it is about people and the commitment to maintaining high standards in the public service sector. The role is essential for enhancing the overall employee experience, which in turn benefits the communities served by the department.

About the Department

The Department of Public Service and Administration is dedicated to promoting efficient, effective, and accountable public service delivery in South Africa. With a mission to support and empower government institutions, the department plays a pivotal role in implementing policies that enhance human resource management across the public sector. Working here means being part of a team that is committed to fostering a professional and ethical public service, making a tangible difference in the lives of South Africans.

What You’ll Do

  • Manage all aspects of people administration services, including appointments, secondments, and terminations.
  • Oversee PERSAL and ensure compliance with all salary and allowance administration.
  • Coordinate HR audits and compliance checks to maintain departmental integrity.
  • Administer long service awards and manage employment contracts for senior management.
  • Provide expert advice on HR policies and practices to management within the department.
  • Ensure optimal management and development of staff in the component.

What You’ll Need

  • A minimum of an appropriate National Diploma (NQF 6) or equivalent qualification in Human Resources or a related field.
  • Extensive experience in people administration and supervisory or management roles.
  • Proficiency in PERSAL and a strong understanding of Conditions of Service.
  • A valid Code B/EB driver’s license.
  • Solid knowledge of relevant government policies, legislation, and employee relations practices.
  • Strong computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office, alongside good strategic thinking and planning abilities.

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.

Requirements

Minimum educational qualification: Appropriate National Diploma (NQF 6) or equivalent in Human Resources or related field.

Experience: Extensive experience in People Administration.

Appropriate supervisory or management experience.

Extensive experience in PERSAL and Conditions of Service.

Inherent requirements of the job: A valid Code B/EB driver’s license.

Competencies (knowledge/skills): Sound knowledge of relevant government and departmental policies, legislation and People Administration practices.

Good managerial, strategic thinking and planning skills.

Strong computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Sound knowledge of employee relations practices and policies.

Job Duties

Manage People Administration services for Head Office, including appointments, secondments, transfers, probation, OSD matters, terminations, allowances and leave administration.

Coordinate transversal People Administration functions, including Long Service Awards, SMS employment contracts and related transversal matters.

Manage PERSAL, salaries and allowances, ensuring accurate and compliant administration.

Coordinate audit and compliance requirements, including HR audits, Internal Audit and Auditor- General processes for Head Office.

Administer ORW and financial disclosure requirements for Head Office.

Optimal management and development of staff in the component.

Provide advice and guidance to Head Office management and institutions on People Administration policies, practices and Conditions of Service.

Salary

R487 197 per annum

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered. Do not submit duplicate applications. If applying for multiple posts, submit separate applications for each post. Due to high volumes, the Department will not acknowledge receipt of applications. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not heard from us within 3 months, please consider your application to be unsuccessful. Should, during any stage of the recruitment process, a moratorium be placed on the filling of posts or the Department is affected by any process such as, but not limited to, restructuring or reorganisation of posts, the Department reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process and re-advertise the post at any time in the future. Important: DOA is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting representivity and affirmative action. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates. The Department reserves the right not to fill vacancies. By applying you consent to the collection and processing of your personal information for recruitment purposes. Shortlisted candidates will be required to be available for assessments and interviews at a date and time as determined by the Department. Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, security vetting and reference checks (including social media profiles). Applications must declare any pending criminal, disciplinary or any other allegations or investigations. Successful candidates must pass security clearance, sign an employment contract, sign an annual performance agreement and disclose financial interests. All applicants are required to declare any conflict or perceived conflict of interest, to disclose memberships of Boards and directorships that they may be associated with. Failure to disclose relevant information may result in disqualification or termination. OTHER POSTS For Enquiries: Mr HC Herbert Tel No: (021) 483-4029