The Free State Department of Health invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Human Resource Officer (PERSAL). This opportunity is based at the Corporate Office in Bloemfontein and offers a permanent government position with attractive benefits, career growth opportunities, and valuable experience in human resource administration within the public health sector.

Applicants who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date. The department is looking for individuals with strong administrative skills, knowledge of the PERSAL system, and the ability to work independently in a professional environment.

Job Details

Position: Human Resource Officer (PERSAL)
Reference Number: H/H/1/2026
Salary: R237 453 per annum
Location: Corporate Office, Bloemfontein, Free State
Department: Free State Department of Health
Closing Date: 05 June 2026

The successful candidate will also receive additional government employee benefits, including:

• 13th Cheque
• Housing Allowance
• Medical Aid (optional and subject to prescribed requirements)

This position is suitable for candidates who are passionate about public service and human resource administration.

Minimum Requirements

Candidates interested in this opportunity must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Grade 12 or equivalent qualification at NQF Level 4 recognised by SAQA
• Knowledge of HR-related prescripts and Acts
• Understanding of PERSAL system functionality
• Excel skills
• Knowledge of PERSAL policies and delegations
• Understanding of the PERSAL Helpdesk User Friendly Manual
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Computer literacy in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Good interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently

Applicants with experience in human resource administration and public service systems may have an added advantage.

Job Responsibilities

The Human Resource Officer (PERSAL) will be responsible for various administrative and system-related duties within the department. The role focuses on maintaining accurate personnel information and supporting the efficient operation of the PERSAL system.

Key responsibilities include:

PERSAL Administration

• Assisting with handling PERSAL status reports
• Managing exceptional reports
• Handling circulars and practice notes
• Monitoring letters and system-generated IDs
• Tracking work permit expiry dates according to prescribed guidelines
• Clearing suspense files
• Assisting with SCC administration
• Handling reset systems and functionality for users

User Access and System Support

• Registering PERSAL LU names and IP addresses
• Enabling new users to access the PERSAL system from their computers
• Restricting system access according to Treasury Regulations
• Providing information related to PERSAL upon request

Administrative Duties

• Recording, organising, storing, capturing, and retrieving correspondence and data
• Updating registers and statistics
• Handling routine enquiries
• Making photocopies
• Distributing documents and packages to stakeholders
• Maintaining filing systems within the component
• Keeping incoming and outgoing document registers updated

Training and Database Maintenance

• Updating and maintaining the PERSAL Training Database (TMS System)
• Assisting in coordinating PERSAL training
• Filing all relevant documents
• Compiling monthly reports and maintaining records

Personnel Information Management

• Maintaining PERSAL according to National Minimum Information Requirements (NMIR)
• Checking, capturing, correcting, and updating personnel information
• Capturing inputs completed at institutional level

This role requires strong attention to detail, organisational skills, and the ability to handle confidential personnel information professionally.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Government positions continue to attract many South Africans due to their stability, employee benefits, and opportunities for long-term career growth. The Human Resource Officer (PERSAL) position provides valuable experience in public sector administration and allows employees to work within an important government department responsible for healthcare services across the province.

Candidates interested in HR administration, personnel systems, and government operations may find this role highly rewarding. The experience gained from working with PERSAL can also create future career opportunities in both government and private sectors.

Important Application Information

Applications must be submitted online through the official Free State Department of Health e-Recruitment system.

Applicants are advised to prepare all required documents before starting the application process.

Application Link

• Applications must be completed online at: https://ihealth.fshealth.gov.za/e-Recruitment

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit:

• A completed and signed new Z83 application form
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents are not required during the initial application stage. Only shortlisted candidates will be requested to provide certified documents before the interview.

Important Notes About the Z83 Form

The Department has indicated that only the new Z83 application form will be accepted. Any application submitted using the old Z83 form will not be considered.

The new Z83 form can be downloaded from: www.dpsa.gov.za-vacancies

Applicants should ensure that all sections of the Z83 form are completed correctly to avoid disqualification.

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates may be required to attend:

• Interviews
• Skills assessments
• Knowledge tests
• Integrity or ethical conduct assessments

The Department may also conduct:

• Qualification verification
• Reference checks
• Citizenship verification
• Security vetting

Candidates must be available for assessments and interviews at dates and venues determined by the Department.

Important Information for Foreign Qualifications

Applicants with foreign qualifications must provide an evaluation certificate issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Failure to provide SAQA verification where required may result in the application not being considered.

Additional Employment Conditions

Successful candidates will:

• Be appointed on a 12-month probation period
• Be expected to sign a performance agreement
• Be required to disclose registrable financial interests where applicable

The Department reserves the right not to fill the position.

Employment Equity

The Free State Department of Health is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer. Appointments will be guided by the Department’s Employment Equity Plan to promote representativity in terms of race, gender, and disability.

Candidates whose appointment may assist the Department in achieving employment equity targets may receive preference.

Tips for Applicants

Applicants are encouraged to:

• Submit applications before the closing date
• Ensure all information on the Z83 form is accurate
• Include updated contact details on the CV
• Highlight computer literacy and PERSAL-related experience
• Clearly describe HR administration experience
• Check the application thoroughly before submission

Late applications and incomplete submissions may not be considered.

Closing Date Reminder

The closing date for applications is: 05 June 2026

Applicants who do not receive feedback within eight weeks after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.

This opportunity presents a chance to join the Free State Department of Health in a professional administrative role that supports effective human resource management and public healthcare administration.