The Department of Employment and Labour invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Administrative Clerk MSS at the Labour Centre in East London, Eastern Cape.

Job seekers looking for an opportunity to build a career within the South African public service can now apply for this government vacancy, which offers a permanent employment opportunity with an annual salary of R237 453. The position is suitable for individuals who have completed Matric/Grade 12 and are seeking entry-level employment within the public sector.

This opportunity provides successful candidates with the chance to gain valuable experience in administration, supply chain management, finance support, human resource administration, records management, and office management functions. The Department of Employment and Labour continues to play a vital role in supporting workers, employers, and communities across South Africa, making this an excellent opportunity for candidates interested in contributing to public service.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates who have completed Grade 12 and are seeking entry-level employment in the public sector. No previous work experience is required, making it a suitable position for recent matriculants and individuals looking to gain valuable experience within government administration.

Administrative Clerk MSS Vacancy Overview

Position: Administrative Clerk MSS
Reference Number: HR4/4/9/55
Location: Labour Centre East London, Eastern Cape
Salary: R237 453 per annum
Closing Date: 22 June 2026 at 16:00 (walk-in applications) and 23:59 (online applications)

The Department of Employment and Labour is committed to promoting employment equity and representivity. Preference will be given to designated groups in line with the department’s Employment Equity Plan.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants interested in this position must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Matric, Grade 12, or Senior Certificate.
• No previous work experience is required.
• Basic understanding of administrative processes.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both verbal and written formats.
• Good computer literacy skills.
• Strong organisational and planning abilities.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good interpersonal relations and teamwork skills.

Since no experience is required, candidates who have recently completed school and wish to start a career in administration are encouraged to apply.

Knowledge Requirements

Successful candidates should demonstrate knowledge of:

• Batho Pele Principles.
• Departmental policies and procedures.
• Treasury Regulations.
• General administrative practices.
• Records management principles.
• Human resource administration processes.
• Office management procedures.

An understanding of these areas may provide an advantage during the recruitment process.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Administrative Clerk MSS will be responsible for providing a variety of administrative support services within the Labour Centre.

Supply Chain Management Functions

The successful candidate will assist with supply chain management activities on a daily basis. Responsibilities may include:

• Processing procurement-related documents.
• Assisting with purchasing procedures.
• Maintaining supply chain records.
• Supporting compliance with government procurement regulations.
• Coordinating administrative tasks related to acquisitions and supplies.

Finance and Office Management Support

The role also involves providing financial and office administration support, including:

• Assisting with budget-related administration.
• Processing financial documentation.
• Maintaining office records and filing systems.
• Supporting day-to-day office operations.
• Coordinating administrative activities within the Labour Centre.

Human Resource Administration

Human resource management functions form an important part of this position. Duties may include:

• Assisting with employee records.
• Supporting recruitment and appointment processes.
• Maintaining HR documentation.
• Assisting with leave administration.
• Providing administrative support to HR-related activities.

Training and Performance Administration

The successful candidate will support training and performance management initiatives by:

• Maintaining training records.
• Coordinating training-related documentation.
• Assisting with performance management administration.
• Supporting staff development activities.

Records Management

Proper records management is critical within government institutions. Responsibilities include:

• Maintaining filing systems.
• Managing confidential records.
• Ensuring accurate storage of documentation.
• Retrieving records when required.
• Supporting compliance with records management policies.

Skills Required for Success

Candidates applying for this vacancy should possess several key competencies that are important in a government administrative environment.

Communication Skills

The ability to communicate clearly and professionally is essential. Administrative clerks regularly interact with colleagues, supervisors, and members of the public.

Computer Literacy

Basic computer skills are required for document processing, email communication, record keeping, and administrative reporting.

Planning and Organising

Administrative duties often involve managing multiple tasks simultaneously. Good organisational skills help ensure deadlines are met and documentation is properly maintained.

Problem-Solving Ability

Government offices frequently deal with administrative challenges that require logical thinking and effective solutions.

Interpersonal Skills

The successful candidate must be able to work effectively with different stakeholders while maintaining professionalism.

Why Consider a Government Administrative Career?

Government administrative positions offer several benefits for individuals seeking stable employment opportunities.

Job Stability

Public sector positions are often associated with long-term employment opportunities and structured career development pathways.

Career Growth

Administrative experience gained within government departments can open doors to future promotions and career advancement opportunities.

Valuable Work Experience

This position provides exposure to finance, supply chain management, human resources, records management, and office administration, creating a strong foundation for future career growth.

Public Service Contribution

Employees in the Department of Employment and Labour play an important role in supporting services that benefit workers, employers, and communities across South Africa.

Application Process

Applications may be submitted either by hand delivery, post, or email.

Postal Applications

Applications can be submitted to:

Deputy Director Labour Centre Operations
Private Bag X9084
East London
5201

Hand Delivery Applications

Applications may be hand delivered to:

IGI Building, Ensuco House
Corner Oxford and Hill Street
East London
5201

Email Applications

• Email applications should be sent to: [email protected]

Applicants must ensure that the correct job title and reference number (HR4/4/9/55) are included in the email subject line.

Failure to use the correct reference number or email address may result in disqualification.

Closing Date: 22 June 2026 at 16:00

Important Notes

All attachments for online applications must include a completed Z83 application form and an updated CV only. These documents must be combined into a single PDF attachment. Zipped files, IMG files, and JPEG documents will not be accepted. Applicants must indicate the correct job title and reference number of the post in the subject line of the email application. The correct email address associated with the post must also be used. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in the application being disqualified.

Applications quoting the relevant reference number must be submitted on the new Z83 form, which can be obtained from any Public Service Department or downloaded from the government website. Applications submitted using the old Z83 form will not be considered. Each advertised post must be accompanied by its own completed application form. The form must be fully completed, initialled where required, and signed by the applicant. Failure to fully complete, initial, and sign the Z83 form may result in disqualification during the selection process.

All fields in Sections A, B, C, and D of the Z83 form must be completed in full. For Sections E, F, and G, applicants may indicate “Refer to CV” or “See Attached” where applicable due to limited space. However, the question relating to conditions that prevent re-appointment under Part F must be answered, and the declaration section must be signed. Only a completed and signed Z83 form together with an updated comprehensive CV detailing previous experience, where applicable, is required at the application stage.

Only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications and any other supporting documents on or before the day of the interview, following communication from Human Resources. These documents must correspond with the requirements stated in the advertisement. Applicants who are not South African citizens but hold permanent residence permits and possess foreign qualifications must submit an evaluation report issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) when requested during the shortlisting stage.

The Department does not accept applications submitted by fax. Applicants who fail to comply with the stated instructions and requirements, or whose applications are received after the closing date, will not be considered. Failure to submit all required documentation may also result in the application not being considered. Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If no communication is received within eight weeks after the closing date, applicants should regard their applications as unsuccessful.

All shortlisted candidates, including SMS candidates, will be required to undergo two pre-entry assessments. One assessment will be a practical exercise aimed at determining suitability for the technical and generic requirements of the post. The second assessment will focus on integrity and ethical conduct.

For Senior Management Service (SMS) appointments, candidates must successfully complete the SMS Pre-entry Programme known as Nyukela, which is endorsed by the National School of Government (NSG). Prior to appointment, candidates must provide proof that they have registered for and completed the programme. The cost of completing the Nyukela programme is for the applicant’s own account. The course is available through the National School of Government under the title “Certificate for Entry into the SMS,” and further information can be obtained from the NSG website.

For SMS appointments, the selection panel may recommend suitable candidates to undergo generic managerial competency assessments using the prescribed DPSA SMS competency assessment tools.

Suitable candidates will be subjected to personnel suitability checks, including criminal record checks, citizenship verification, qualification verification, employment verification, and credit record checks where applicable.

By responding to this advertisement, applicants consent to the collection, processing, and storage of their personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). The information provided will be used solely for recruitment purposes and will not be shared with third parties without prior consent unless required by law.

The Department reserves the right not to make an appointment to the advertised post. The successful candidate will be expected to sign a performance agreement. The Department is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, and the Employment Equity Plan of the Department will guide employment decisions. The Department intends to promote equity in terms of race, gender, and disability through the filling of this post.