Chief Engineer: Structural And Bridges – Pretoria – Department Of Public Works And Infrastructure

Join as Chief Engineer: Structural and Bridges in Pretoria with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, a rewarding government job in South Africa

Published 20 October 2026
Closing Date Closed
Location
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is seeking a highly skilled Chief Engineer: Structural and Bridges to join their team at the Head Office, located in Pretoria. This vital role is essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of critical infrastructure, such as bridges, culverts, and buildings throughout South Africa. By leading technical projects and providing expert engineering services, you will play a key role in enhancing the safety and durability of public structures, ultimately contributing to the well-being of communities and the integrity of public service.

In this leadership position, you will oversee major engineering projects, directing multidisciplinary teams to ensure that all infrastructure meets high standards of quality and efficiency. Your contributions will not only impact the immediate area but also resonate across the nation, as safe and reliable infrastructure forms the backbone of economic growth and public safety.

About the Department

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is dedicated to the planning, design, and maintenance of public infrastructure that supports South Africa’s developmental goals. With a mission to provide effective and efficient services, the department plays a crucial role in enhancing the country’s infrastructure landscape. Working here means being part of a team that values innovation, sustainability, and excellence in public service, making a meaningful impact on society.

What You’ll Do

  • Provide specialist engineering services and technical leadership in the planning and design of infrastructure projects.
  • Oversee the investigation, construction, and rehabilitation of bridges and buildings.
  • Manage contract administration and ensure compliance with engineering standards and specifications.
  • Conduct inspections and assessments to maintain the quality and safety of public structures.
  • Lead and mentor multidisciplinary engineering teams to achieve project objectives.
  • Manage budgets, claims, and contractual disputes effectively to ensure project success.

What You’ll Need

  • A recognised Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Civil Engineering.
  • Compulsory registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng).
  • A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in civil and structural engineering.
  • Extensive experience in the design, construction, and contract administration of infrastructure projects.
  • Strong leadership skills with a proven track record of managing complex engineering teams and programmes.
  • Advanced knowledge of structural design principles and applicable engineering codes and standards.

How to Apply

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

Requirements

A recognised Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) / Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Civil Engineering.

Compulsory registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Professional Engineer (Pr.

Eng).

A minimum of ten (10) years’ relevant experience in civil and structural engineering, including at least five years’ post-professional registration experience.

Extensive relevant experience in the design, construction and contract administration of roads, bridges and buildings, including experience after professional registration.

Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and managing complex infrastructure programmes, consultants and contractors.

A recognised Bridge Inspector certification will be an added advantage.

Knowledge, Skills and Competencies: Advanced knowledge of structural behaviour and the design of reinforced concrete, prestressed concrete, steel and masonry structures.

Knowledge of applicable engineering codes, design standards, construction specifications and quality assurance procedures.

Understanding of geotechnical conditions, foundations, hydrology, hydraulics, drainage and their implications for structural integrity.

Competence in structural inspections, condition ratings, failure investigations, remaining-life assessments and maintenance planning.

Knowledge of procurement, infrastructure delivery, occupational health and safety, environmental requirements and professional engineering responsibilities.

Familiarity with relevant legislation, codes of practice, and technical standards (e.

g.

, SANS, TMH, COLTO, and SANRAL guidelines).

Competency in managing budgets, variations, claims, payment certification and contractual disputes.

Strong analytical, report-writing, communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

The ability to exercise independent engineering judgement.

Strong leadership and team management abilities to drive high- performance teams.

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Job Duties

To provide specialist engineering services and technical leadership in the planning, investigation, design, construction, supervision, contract administration, inspection, rehabilitation and maintenance of culverts, bridges and buildings.

Ensure that infrastructure is safe, functional, durable and cost- effective throughout its service life.

Salary

R1 317 108 - R1 504 797 per annum, (OSD), (all-inclusive package)

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: Ms PN Yingwane Tel No: (013) 766 6780 e-Recruitment Mpumalanga