Published: 04 September 2026
Last updated: 04 September 2026
Last checked: 04 September 2026
Circular: Public Service Vacancy Circular, Publication No. 32 of 2026
Date issued: 04 September 2026
Advertisement status: Open
Closing date: Varies by vacancy. Many advertisements close on 18 September 2026, while some posts have different deadlines.
Employer: Multiple national departments and provincial administrations
Employment type: Public Service employment, with some learner, internship and developmental opportunities where advertised
Location: South Africa
Application method: Depends on the department and individual vacancy
Salary: Varies according to the advertised post, salary level, grade or occupation-specific scale
Requirements: Vary according to each advertised position
Download Public Service Vacancy Circular 32 of 2026 PDF
Download the Public Service Vacancy Circular 32 of 2026 PDF
For the authoritative government source, use the official DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular page.
What is Public Service Vacancy Circular 32 of 2026?
Public Service Vacancy Circular 32 of 2026 is the latest vacancy publication issued on 04 September 2026. The circular contains advertised vacancies from national departments and provincial administrations.
The official circular states that Public Service Vacancy Circulars are published weekly, except during December, and contain advertisements for vacant posts and jobs in Public Service departments. It also states that although the circular is issued by the Department of Public Service and Administration, the relevant advertising department is responsible for the content of each vacancy advertisement.
Circular 32 covers a wide range of occupations, from entry-level and administrative positions to professional, technical, management and senior management posts.
Applicants should read the individual vacancy advertisement before applying because qualifications, experience, documents, application channels and closing dates differ between posts.
Important Update for Applicants
Do not assume every vacancy in Circular 32 has the same closing date.
For example, the Department of Agriculture section states a closing date of 18 September 2026 at 16:00.
Other advertisements have different deadlines. A Western Cape Department of Agriculture advertisement, for example, shows a closing date of 28 September 2026.
Always check the closing date shown in the specific advertisement for the post you want.
What’s New in Circular 32 of 2026?
Circular 32 includes new vacancies as well as notices relating to earlier advertisements.
The circular contains:
- New vacancy advertisements
- Closing dates for individual posts
- Salary and remuneration information
- Qualification requirements
- Experience requirements
- Application instructions
- Amendments to selected previous advertisements
- Extensions to selected closing dates
- Withdrawals of selected previous advertisements
- Re-advertised positions
- Department-specific application instructions
This makes Circular 32 more than a list of new vacancies. Applicants should also check the amendment and withdrawal notices before relying on an earlier vacancy advertisement.
Amendments in Circular 32
One important amendment concerns the Government Communications and Information System.
The circular states that the closing date for the Chief Financial Officer, Ref No. 3/1/5/1-26/15, and Director: Western Cape Provincial Office, previously advertised in Circular 29, was extended from 04 September 2026 to 18 September 2026.
Another amendment concerns selected posts in the Mpumalanga Department of Social Development. The circular notes an amended closing date for specified posts previously advertised in Circular 20.
A KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health notice also changes the requirements for the Senior Manager: Medical Services, Ugu District, Ref No. PSH 05/2026. The required experience after registration as a Medical Practitioner was increased from three years to six years, and the closing date was extended to 18 September 2026. Applicants who already applied were instructed not to apply again.
Withdrawn and Re-advertised Vacancies
Applicants should also check withdrawal notices before submitting an application.
The circular records several withdrawals.
For example, the Department of Tourism states that the Deputy Director: Tourism BBBEE Codes, Ref No. DT 21/2026, previously advertised in Circular 12, was withdrawn. Another previously advertised Tourism post was also withdrawn.
The Office of the Chief Justice also records the withdrawal of an earlier Usher Messenger post at the Western Cape Division of the High Court, Cape Town.
The Free State Provincial Treasury records another important change. A Security Officer Supervisor post from Circular 29, previously carrying reference number FSPT 017/26, was withdrawn and re-advertised under FSPT 018/26, with a new closing date of 18 September 2026 and updated requirements.
Application tip: If a post has been withdrawn and replaced by a new reference number, use the latest advertisement rather than submitting an application against the old reference.
Circular 32 Vacancy Summary
Circular 32 is divided into national departments and provincial administrations.
National Departments
| Department | Circular pages |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | 03–07 |
| Defence | 08–10 |
| Employment and Labour | 11–23 |
| Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment | 24–33 |
| Government Technical Advisory Centre | 34–36 |
| Higher Education and Training | 37–109 |
| Home Affairs | 110–113 |
| Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services | 114–115 |
| Mineral and Petroleum Resources | 116–119 |
| Office of the Chief Justice | 120–126 |
| Public Works and Infrastructure | 127–139 |
| Social Development | 140–147 |
| Tourism | 148–150 |
| Treasury | 151–154 |
| Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities | 155–158 |
The department index in the supplied circular confirms the national department structure and page ranges.
Provincial Administrations
| Province | Circular pages |
|---|---|
| Free State | 159–181 |
| Gauteng | 182–204 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 205–225 |
| Limpopo | 226–268 |
| Mpumalanga | 269–272 |
| Northern Cape | 273–274 |
| Western Cape | 275–341 |
The provincial index confirms these sections and page ranges.
How to Find a Suitable Job in Circular 32
The circular is more than 300 pages long, so reading every page is not an efficient approach for most applicants.
Use this process:
Step 1: Choose your department or province
Start with the department or provincial administration where you want to work.
Step 2: Check the post title
Look for positions matching your qualifications, skills and experience.
Step 3: Record the reference number
Every application should identify the correct reference number. The circular specifically instructs applicants to indicate the vacancy reference number in their applications.
Step 4: Check the salary
Compare the advertised salary with the responsibilities and requirements of the position.
Step 5: Read the requirements
Check the required qualification, experience, professional registration, driver’s licence and other conditions.
Step 6: Check the application method
Do not assume every department uses the same application system.
Some departments request email or hand-delivered applications. Others use an online application platform.
Step 7: Check the closing date
Write down the exact closing date and time.
Step 8: Read the notes
The notes section often contains important instructions about Z83, CVs, certified documents, foreign qualifications, assessments and late applications.
Examples of Jobs and Salary Information
Circular 32 contains vacancies across different salary levels and occupational groups.
Examples from the supplied circular include:
- Trade Assistant: R170,226 per year, Level 03
- Registry Clerk: R237,453 per year, Level 05
- Chief Administrative Clerk: R338,106 per year, Level 07
- Chief Artisan Grade A: R499,470 per year
- Deputy Director positions with remuneration above R1 million in some departments
- Manager: Pharmaceutical Services: R1,375,245 per year
- Medical and other professional posts with occupation-specific salary scales
For example, the Department of Higher Education and Training lists a Trade Assistant position with a salary of R170,226 per year and a Grade 10/ABET Level 4 entry requirement.
The same department lists a Registry Clerk position at R237,453 per year, Level 05, with Grade 12 or an NCV certificate as the basic qualification.
A senior pharmaceutical management position in KwaZulu-Natal Health is advertised at R1,375,245 per year and requires a pharmacy degree, SAPC registration and extensive post-registration experience.
These examples show why applicants should not judge their suitability from salary alone. The qualification and experience requirements need to match the specific post.
What the Requirements Mean
Government vacancy advertisements often contain several categories of requirements.
Qualification
A qualification requirement tells you the formal education level needed for the position.
Examples in Circular 32 include:
- Grade 10
- Grade 12 or National Senior Certificate
- National Certificate (Vocational)
- National Diploma
- Bachelor’s degree
- Advanced Diploma
- Professional qualifications
- Postgraduate qualifications
A qualification listed as a minimum requirement should be treated as a condition for consideration unless the advertisement provides an alternative.
Work Experience
Experience requirements differ significantly between posts.
Some entry-level positions state that previous experience is an added advantage rather than a compulsory requirement.
More senior positions often require specific experience after professional registration or qualification.
For example, a KwaZulu-Natal Health pharmaceutical management post requires at least nine years of appropriate experience after registration as a pharmacist, including three years of managerial experience.
Professional Registration
Some professional posts require registration with the relevant statutory body.
Examples include:
- HPCSA for certain medical professions
- SANC for professional nursing posts
- SAPC for pharmacist posts
Applicants should check whether registration must be current at the time of application.
Driver’s Licence
Some positions require a valid driver’s licence.
Do not assume a licence is optional when the advertisement lists it as a requirement.
Foreign Qualifications
Some advertisements require applicants with foreign qualifications to obtain an evaluation from the South African Qualifications Authority.
The circular includes department-specific instructions concerning SAQA evaluation.
Who Should Apply?
You should consider applying when:
- Your qualification matches the advertised minimum requirement.
- Your work experience meets the stated requirement.
- You hold the required professional registration where applicable.
- You meet the required licence or competency conditions.
- You live in or are willing to work at the advertised location.
- You are able to submit the required documents before the deadline.
- You understand the department’s application instructions.
- You meet any additional conditions listed in the advertisement.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an interview or appointment.
Who Should Not Apply?
Avoid applying for a vacancy when:
- You do not meet a stated minimum qualification.
- You lack compulsory professional registration.
- You do not have required experience.
- You lack a compulsory driver’s licence.
- You cannot meet a specific statutory or professional requirement.
- The vacancy has already been withdrawn.
- You are using an old reference number for a re-advertised post.
- You intend to submit after the stated deadline.
- You are unwilling to follow the department’s application instructions.
Applying for a position where you do not meet the minimum requirements also increases the risk of wasting time preparing an application.
How to Apply for Circular 32 Jobs
The application process differs by vacancy.
The general Public Service direction states that applicants must use the prescribed Z83 form and provide full particulars of training, qualifications, competencies, knowledge and experience. Applicants must also indicate the reference number.
Follow these steps:
- Select the vacancy.
- Read the entire advertisement.
- Confirm the reference number.
- Check the qualification requirement.
- Check the experience requirement.
- Check professional registration requirements.
- Prepare the required Z83 form.
- Prepare your updated CV.
- Add any additional documents specifically requested.
- Follow the stated email, online or hand-delivery procedure.
- Submit before the exact closing date and time.
- Keep proof of submission.
New Z83 Form
Circular 32 confirms that applicants should use the new Z83 form, effective from 01 January 2021.
Some department advertisements also specify that the Z83 must be fully completed, signed and submitted with a detailed CV.
For example, a Department of Tourism notice states that incomplete Z83 forms, incorrect forms and late applications will not be considered.
Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, check:
- Correct vacancy title
- Correct reference number
- Correct Z83 form
- Z83 fully completed
- Z83 signed where required
- Updated comprehensive CV
- Required qualifications
- Professional registration where required
- Driver’s licence where required
- SAQA evaluation where applicable
- Required supporting documents
- Correct email address or online application platform
- Correct email subject line where required
- Correct document format
- File-size limit checked
- Closing date checked
- Closing time checked
- Proof of submission saved
Common Application Mistakes
Using the wrong Z83
Some advertisements specifically reject applications submitted on the old form.
Leaving sections incomplete
An incomplete Z83 could result in disqualification.
Using the wrong reference number
The reference number helps the department identify the position for which you are applying.
Sending one application for several posts when separate applications are required
Some departments require a separate application for each vacancy.
Missing the closing time
A closing date with a specific time should be treated as a deadline, not a suggested submission time.
Ignoring application-specific instructions
The general Z83 instructions do not replace the individual advertisement’s instructions.
Sending documents in the wrong format
Some departments specify PDF documents or maximum file sizes.
The Department of Agriculture section, for example, requires the Z83 and detailed CV as a PDF document of no more than 10 MB for the stated application process.
Applying for a withdrawn vacancy
Always check the latest circular for withdrawal and re-advertisement notices.
Assuming every department uses the same application method
Some departments use email, while others use online systems or other stated methods.
Application Methods in Circular 32
There is no single application method for every vacancy.
Depending on the advertisement, applications might require:
- Email submission
- Online application
- Hand delivery
- Postal submission
- A combination of specified methods
For example, DHET advertisements in Circular 32 instruct applicants to use its online application process through the departmental website or the specified digital Z83 platform.
Applicants should therefore never rely on an application method copied from another department.
Documents You May Need
The exact documents depend on the vacancy.
Common requirements include:
- New Z83 application form
- Comprehensive CV
- Qualification information
- Professional registration details
- Driver’s licence
- SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications where required
- Other documents specifically listed in the advert
Some departments request certified copies only from shortlisted candidates rather than at the initial application stage.
For example, one Circular 32 advertisement states that shortlisted candidates will be asked to submit certified documents before the interview.
Read the specific vacancy before attaching documents.
What Happens After You Apply?
The selection process depends on the department and position.
Possible stages include:
- Administrative screening
- Shortlisting
- Verification of qualifications
- Employment verification
- Competency exercises
- Interviews
- Personnel suitability checks
- Security clearance for applicable positions
- Additional assessments for certain senior positions
- Final appointment decision
Some Circular 32 advertisements specifically mention competency exercises for shortlisted candidates.
Senior management positions may have additional assessment requirements.
The circular also includes SMS requirements involving a pre-entry certificate and assessments.
Senior Management Service Applicants
Applicants for SMS positions should pay particular attention to the additional requirements.
The circular states that the SMS pre-entry certificate is a minimum entry requirement for SMS positions in the relevant advertisements.
Other assessment requirements include technical exercises, interviews and, for selected candidates, further psychometric assessment.
Applicants should therefore read the SMS-specific requirements rather than treating an SMS application like a standard vacancy.
Editorial Review
DPSACircular.co.za reviewed the vacancy details against the supplied official government advertisement. Our review focused on the advertised positions, reference numbers, salary information, qualification requirements, experience requirements, closing date and application instructions. Readers should use the official advertisement as the final source before submitting an application.
Our review also considered amendment and withdrawal notices contained in Circular 32 so applicants have a clearer view of changes affecting earlier advertisements.
The supplied circular is 341 pages, so this article provides a structured summary rather than reproducing the document.
How We Reviewed Circular 32
Our editorial checking process focused on:
- Circular number
- Date issued
- Department names
- Vacancy titles
- Reference numbers
- Salary information
- Qualifications
- Experience requirements
- Professional registration requirements
- Application methods
- Closing dates
- Amendments
- Withdrawals
- Re-advertisements
- Department-specific application notes
Where requirements differ between advertisements, the individual vacancy advertisement takes priority.
Official Source
The official source for Public Service Vacancy Circulars is the Department of Public Service and Administration.
The official DPSA vacancy page explains that the Public Service Vacancy Circular is issued weekly except during December and contains advertisements for vacant posts and jobs in Public Service departments. It also states that enquiries about individual advertisements should be directed to the relevant advertising department rather than DPSA.
Official source:
DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circulars
The DPSA 2026 year programme also lists Circular 32 in the 2026 publication schedule, with 04 September 2026 shown as the date associated with Circular 32.
Why DPSACircular.co.za Is Publishing This Post
DPSACircular.co.za publishes this guide to help job seekers understand the information contained in Public Service Vacancy Circular 32 of 2026.
The purpose is to make the vacancy information easier to use by explaining:
- Where the vacancies appear
- How to identify suitable posts
- How requirements work
- What salary information means
- How application methods differ
- How to check closing dates
- How to identify amendments
- How to identify withdrawn posts
- How to prepare an application
- Which common mistakes to avoid
DPSACircular.co.za does not accept applications and does not participate in government recruitment decisions.
About DPSACircular.co.za
DPSACircular.co.za is an independent South African job information and application guidance website.
We publish information about:
- DPSA Vacancy Circulars
- Government vacancies
- Internships
- Learnerships
- Graduate programmes
- Bursaries
- Public sector career opportunities
- Government job application guidance
Our editorial content is intended to help readers understand publicly available recruitment information. Applicants should always confirm vacancy details against the relevant official government advertisement before submitting an application.
Internal Guides You May Find Useful
Readers applying for Circular 32 vacancies may also benefit from these DPSACircular.co.za guides:
- How to Complete the Z83 Application Form
- How to Apply for South African Government Jobs
- Documents Needed for South African Government Jobs
- How to Write a CV for Government Jobs
- How Government Job Shortlisting Works in South Africa
- How to Pass a South African Government Job Interview
- DPSA Salary Levels Explained
- How to Verify South African Government Jobs
- Latest DPSA Vacancy Circular
- Government Internships and Graduate Programmes
These supporting guides provide practical information while this page focuses on Circular 32.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Public Service Vacancy Circular 32 of 2026?
It is a Public Service vacancy publication issued on 04 September 2026 containing advertised government vacancies across listed national departments and provincial administrations.
2. When was Circular 32 of 2026 issued?
The supplied circular states that it was issued on 04 September 2026.
3. What is the closing date for Circular 32 jobs?
There is no single closing date for every vacancy. Many advertisements close on 18 September 2026, while other posts have different deadlines.
4. How do I download Circular 32?
Use the PDF download provided near the top of this article or access the official DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular page.
5. Which departments are included?
Circular 32 includes national departments such as Agriculture, Defence, Employment and Labour, Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Higher Education and Training, Home Affairs, Tourism and Treasury, along with several provincial administrations.
6. Does Circular 32 include provincial government jobs?
Yes. The circular includes Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape and Western Cape provincial administrations.
7. Which Z83 form should I use?
The circular states that applicants should use the new Z83 form effective from 01 January 2021.
8. Do I need to submit certified qualifications with every application?
Not necessarily. The requirement depends on the individual advertisement. Some Circular 32 advertisements state that certified documents will be requested from shortlisted candidates.
9. Do all Circular 32 jobs require a CV?
Application requirements differ. Many advertisements require a detailed or comprehensive CV, but you should follow the instructions for your selected post.
10. Can I apply for more than one vacancy?
You should follow the individual department’s instructions. Some departments require a separate application for each post.
11. Do all jobs use email applications?
No. Application methods differ. Some vacancies use email, while others use online application systems or other methods specified in the advert.
12. What happens if I submit my application late?
Late applications are generally not considered where the advertisement states a firm deadline. Check the exact closing date and time before submitting.
13. What if a job from an earlier circular has been withdrawn?
Do not rely on the withdrawn advertisement. Check whether the department has re-advertised the position under a new reference number.
14. What if the closing date has been extended?
Use the latest closing date stated in the amendment notice, provided the vacancy remains open.
For example, selected GCIS posts from Circular 29 had their closing date extended from 04 September to 18 September 2026.
15. Do I need SAQA evaluation for a foreign qualification?
Some advertisements require an evaluation of foreign qualifications by SAQA. Check the specific vacancy for the timing and document requirements.
16. What qualifications are required for government jobs?
Requirements range from school-level qualifications to diplomas, degrees, professional registrations and advanced qualifications. Each vacancy sets its own minimum requirements.
17. Are there entry-level vacancies in Circular 32?
Yes. The circular includes lower-level posts with requirements such as Grade 10/ABET Level 4 and Grade 12, alongside professional and management positions. For example, a DHET Trade Assistant advertisement lists Grade 10/Standard 8/ABET Level 4 as the minimum educational requirement.
18. Are there senior management jobs?
Yes. Circular 32 includes senior management and other higher-level positions. Applicants for SMS positions should review the additional pre-entry and assessment requirements.
19. Does DPSACircular.co.za accept applications?
No. DPSACircular.co.za publishes information and application guidance. Applications must be submitted using the method stated by the relevant government department.
20. Which source should I trust if information differs?
Use the latest official government advertisement as the final source before applying. If an amendment, withdrawal or re-advertisement changes an earlier vacancy, follow the latest notice.
Final Advice for Circular 32 Applicants
Do not rush an application because a vacancy appears attractive.
First, confirm that your qualification and experience match the advertised requirements. Then check the reference number, application method, required documents and closing date.
Use the latest version of the advertisement where an amendment, extension, withdrawal or re-advertisement has been published.
Keep a copy of your submitted application and proof of submission.
Most importantly, do not rely on a summary page alone. Read the official advertisement for the specific post before submitting your application.
Related Vacancy Categories
Continue exploring career opportunities on DPSACircular.co.za:
Department of Agriculture Vacancies
Department of Basic Education Vacancies
Department of Correctional Services
Department of Defence Vacancies
Department of Electricity and Energy vacancies
Department of Employment and Labour Vacancie
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Vacancies
Department of Higher Education and Training Vacancies
Department of Home Affairs Vacancies
Department of International Relations and Cooperation Vacancies
Department of Justice and Constitutional Development Vacancies
Department of Land Reform and Rural Development Vacancies
Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Vacancies
Department of Public Service and Administration Vacancies
Department of Tourism Vacancies
Department of Traditional Affairs Vacancies
Department of Water and Sanitation Vacancies
Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Vacancies
Government Technical Advisory Centre
Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services Vacancies
Latest DPSA Circular PDF Download
National School of Government Vacancies
National Treasury Vacancies
Office of the Chief Justice Vacancies
Disclaimer
DPSACircular.co.za is an independent government-job information and application guidance website.
DPSACircular.co.za is an independent South African job information website. We publish information about DPSA Vacancy Circulars, government vacancies, internships, learnerships, graduate programmes, bursaries and public sector career opportunities.
DPSACircular.co.za is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by or connected to the Department of Public Service and Administration, the South African Government or any government department.
We do not accept job applications, shortlist candidates, conduct interviews or make recruitment decisions.
Vacancy information is summarised from publicly available government advertisements for informational and guidance purposes. Requirements, salaries, closing dates, application methods and other details are subject to the individual official advertisement.
Readers should always consult the relevant official government advertisement before submitting an application.
About the Author
Godwin Samuel is the founder and publisher of DPSACircular.co.za. He has more than eight years of experience researching employment information, recruitment guidance and public-sector career opportunities.
His work focuses on helping South African job seekers understand government vacancy advertisements, application requirements, recruitment processes and public-sector career opportunities.
The editorial approach used on DPSACircular.co.za focuses on source checking, clear dates, practical application guidance and separating official vacancy information from independent editorial explanations.
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