The Department of Employment and Labour has officially opened recruitment for two Client Service Officer positions within the Public Employment Services (PES) unit. These roles are based in the East London and Kariega (formerly Uitenhage) Labour Centres.
As a Client Service Officer, you act as the vital link between unemployed South Africans and active work opportunities. This role is perfect for a proactive individual who excels at administration and possesses the empathy required to assist work-seekers in navigating the national employment database.
Job Facts: Eastern Cape Intake 2026
| Feature | Details |
| Organization | Department of Employment and Labour |
| Post Title | Client Service Officer: Public Employment Services |
| Salary | R269 499 per annum |
| Min. Education | Grade 12 / Senior Certificate |
| Experience | No experience required (Added advantage) |
| Closing Date | 14 April 2026 (16:00 Walk-in / 23:59 Online) |
Technical Insight: Mastering the ESSA System
The core of this role revolves around ESSA (Employment Services of South Africa), the Department’s digital matching engine.
- Work-Seeker Registration: You will be responsible for accurately capturing the skills and profiles of unemployed citizens on the ESSA database.
- Opportunity Matching: You will register learning and work opportunities provided by employers and match them with suitable candidates on the system.
- Counselling Referrals: Identifying candidates who require specialized psychological or career guidance and referring them to Employment Counselling services.
- Advocacy & Outreach: Participating in community sessions to educate the public on how the Department can assist them in finding sustainable work.
Mandatory Requirements & Skills
To be considered, your application must demonstrate:
- Knowledge: Familiarity with the Employment Services Act, Public Service Act, and Batho Pele Principles.
- Communication: High-level listening, verbal, and written communication skills for interviewing work-seekers.
- Computer Literacy: Ability to navigate complex databases and standard office software.
- Problem Solving: Interpreting legislation to provide accurate advice to the public.
Application Details: East London vs. Kariega
Ensure you use the correct reference number and email address for your preferred location.
1. East London Centre
- Reference Number: HR 4/4/10/01
- Email:
[email protected] - Address: Ensuco House, NR Hill and Church Streets, East London, 5201.
- Enquiries: Mr M Njamela – 043 702 7500
2. Kariega Centre
- Reference Number: HR 4/4/10/02
- Email:
[email protected] - Address: 15A Chase Street, Kariega, 6230.
- Enquiries: Ms W Koba – 041 995 7047
CRITICAL: The Z83 Submission Protocol
The Department maintains a zero-tolerance policy for incorrect applications.
- The New Z83: You must use the latest Z83 form (2021 version).
- Single PDF: Your Z83 and CV must be merged into one (1) PDF document. Multiple attachments, JPEGs, or Zipped files will result in disqualification.
- Signatures: Every page must be initialed, and the declaration must be signed.
- Subject Line: Indicate the Job Title and Reference Number clearly.
Employment Equity Data & Intent
The Department is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer. According to the most recent Commission for Employment Equity (CEE) reports, the public service continues to prioritize the representation of:
- Designated Groups: African, Coloured, and Indian candidates.
- Gender: Increasing the presence of women in administrative and service-level roles.
- Disability: The Department aims for a 2% target for persons with disabilities within its workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for both posts?
Yes, but you must submit a separate Z83 and CV for each reference number to the respective email addresses.
2. I have a degree but no experience. Should I apply?
Absolutely. While the minimum requirement is Grade 12, higher qualifications are often seen as an “added advantage” during the shortlisting process.
3. What is the “Integrity Assessment”?
Shortlisted candidates undergo a check to ensure ethical conduct, which includes criminal record, credit, and qualification verification.
4. How long until I get an interview?
Shortlisting typically takes 4 to 6 weeks. If you haven’t heard back within 8 weeks of the closing date, assume your application was unsuccessful.