Client Service Officer: IES (X2 Posts) Opportunity at the Department of Employment and Labour KwaZulu-Natal

The Department of Employment and Labour is inviting applications for two Client Service Officer: IES positions in KwaZulu-Natal. The vacancies are based at the Ladysmith Labour Centre and Richards Bay Labour Centre, making this an opportunity for suitably qualified Grade 12 candidates who want to start or build a career in public service. No previous work experience is required, although applicants must have the ability to communicate effectively with members of the public and interpret relevant legislation. The successful candidates will provide frontline client services, handle complaints and perform administrative duties within the prescribed procedures of the Inspection and Enforcement Services environment.

Job Overview and Responsibilities

The Client Service Officer: IES will serve as an important first point of contact for clients visiting the Labour Centre. The successful candidate will work at the help desk and assist members of the public with enquiries and services relating to relevant labour legislation. This requires a professional approach, good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate information clearly and accurately.

Key responsibilities include:

• Render services at the help desk as the first point of entry within Registration Services.
• Assist clients with enquiries and service-related matters.
• Resolve complaints relating to IES labour legislation within the scope and requirements of the applicable IES Standard Operating Procedures.
• Provide accurate information to clients in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
• Perform general administrative duties.
• Participate in advocacy sessions when required.
• Apply Batho Pele Principles when interacting with members of the public.
• Maintain professional telephone etiquette when dealing with clients.
• Assist with the interpretation and application of relevant legislation within the scope of the position.
• Identify client problems and provide appropriate solutions or escalate matters when necessary.
• Maintain effective communication with colleagues and clients.
• Support the efficient delivery of services at the Labour Centre.

Requirements and Skills

Applicants must have a Grade 12 qualification. No previous work experience is required, making this position suitable for candidates who meet the educational requirements and are seeking an entry-level opportunity within the public service.

Candidates should have knowledge of relevant labour legislation and regulations, as well as applicable International Labour Organization conventions. An understanding of the Public Service Act, Public Service Regulations and departmental policies, procedures and guidelines is also required. Knowledge of Batho Pele Principles is important because the position involves direct interaction with members of the public.

The Department is looking for candidates with the following skills and competencies:

• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Good telephone etiquette.
• Interviewing skills.
• Computer literacy.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret legislation.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate with clients professionally.
• Ability to work within prescribed procedures.
• Customer service skills.
• Ability to handle complaints professionally.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively within a public service environment.

Salary and Locations

The salary for the Client Service Officer: IES position is R280,278 per annum. There are two available posts within KwaZulu-Natal.

The first position is based at the Ladysmith Labour Centre under reference number HR4/4/7/3. Applications for this post can be directed to the Deputy Director: Ladysmith Labour Centre, Private Bag X9926, Ladysmith, 3370, or hand delivered to 35 Keate Street, Ladysmith.

The second position is based at the Richards Bay Labour Centre under reference number HR4/4/7/11. Applications can be submitted to the Deputy Director: Richards Bay Labour Centre, Private Bag X20033, Empangeni, 3880, or hand delivered to 11 Lira Rink Road, Richards Bay.

Enquiries

For the Ladysmith position, applicants can contact Ms L Radebe on (036) 638 1900.

For the Richards Bay position, applicants can contact Mr I Ximba on (035) 780 8708.

How to Apply

Applicants may apply online using the relevant email address for the position. Applications for the Ladysmith Labour Centre should be emailed to Jobs-KZN5@labour.gov.za. Applications for the Richards Bay Labour Centre should be emailed to Jobs-KZN28@labour.gov.za.

Applicants must use the correct job title and reference number in the email subject line. The correct email address associated with the vacancy must also be used. Using the wrong reference number, job title or email address may result in the application being disqualified.

Applications must include a completed and signed new Z83 application form and an updated comprehensive CV. For online applications, the Z83 and CV must be combined into one PDF attachment. Zipped files, IMG files and JPEG documents will not be accepted.

Applicants should not submit additional supporting documents with the initial application unless specifically requested. Certified copies of qualifications and other supporting documents will only be required from shortlisted candidates before or on the day of the interview.

The new Z83 form must be used. Applicants can obtain the form from any Public Service Department or access it through the official South African government documents portal. Download government forms and documents

Important Application Requirements

Applicants must fully complete all required sections of the Z83 form. Sections A, B, C and D must be completed in full. In Sections E, F and G, applicants may indicate that information is contained in their CV where space is limited, but the question concerning conditions that could prevent reappointment under Part F must be answered.

The Z83 declaration must be signed and the form must be initialled as required. Failure to complete, initial and sign the form correctly may result in disqualification during the selection process.

Each advertised post requires its own application form. Applicants applying for both positions should ensure that each application correctly identifies the relevant reference number and Labour Centre.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 17 August 2026. Walk-in applications must be received by 16:00 on the closing date, while online applications must be submitted by 23:59.

Late applications will not be considered. The Department does not accept applications via fax. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their applications reach the Department before the relevant deadline.

Selection Process

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Shortlisted applicants may be required to complete pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise designed to assess their suitability against the technical and generic requirements of the position. Candidates may also undergo an integrity assessment focused on ethical conduct.

Suitable candidates will be subject to personnel suitability checks. These may include verification of criminal records, citizenship, qualifications and previous employment, as well as credit record checks where applicable.

Applicants should note that the selection process may take time. If you have not been contacted within eight weeks after the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

Employment Equity

The Department of Employment and Labour is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Its Employment Equity Plan will guide recruitment and appointment decisions. The Department aims to promote equity across race, gender and disability through the filling of these positions.

Indian males, Indian females, White males, White females and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. All applicants must still meet the minimum requirements specified for the position.

Candidates who meet the requirements and are interested in public service, client support and labour administration are encouraged to apply before the deadline. Applicants should carefully follow the Z83 and email submission requirements because incomplete applications or applications sent to the wrong address may be excluded from consideration.

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