The Department of Employment and Labour has announced two exciting job opportunities for qualified and experienced individuals interested in security services within the public sector. The Security Officer positions, under reference number HR4/4/4/51, are based at the Gqeberha Labour Centre in the Eastern Cape.
These posts offer a salary of R201 093 per annum and are ideal for candidates with Grade C PSIRA certification, security experience, and a strong understanding of public safety protocols. Successful applicants will play a vital role in protecting government property, ensuring safety at the Labour Centre, and maintaining secure access control systems.
This opportunity is suited for disciplined, vigilant, and responsible individuals who are committed to safeguarding people, assets, and information within a professional government environment.
Position Overview
- Job Title: Security Officer
- Reference Number: HR4/4/4/51
- Number of Posts: 2
- Salary: R201 093 per annum
- Centre: Gqeberha Labour Centre, Eastern Cape
- Department: Department of Employment and Labour
The successful candidates will form part of the security team responsible for ensuring safety, enforcing regulations, and maintaining secure access control within the Labour Centre and provincial office environment.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria to be considered:
- Grade 12 / Senior Certificate
- Grade C Security Certificate (PSIRA registered)
- Minimum of 12 months security-related experience
Applicants must also be registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), which is a key requirement for employment in the private and public security sector in South Africa.
Experience in access control, building security, or corporate/government security environments will be an added advantage.
Knowledge Requirements
Candidates applying for this position should have sound knowledge of the following areas:
- Access to Public Premises and Vehicles Act
- Evacuation procedures and emergency response protocols
- Minimum Information Security Standards (MISS)
- Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) procedures
- Batho Pele Principles (service delivery principles in the public sector)
- Public Service Regulations Act
- Departmental policies and procedures
This knowledge ensures that security officers can effectively enforce rules, respond to emergencies, and maintain order within a government facility.
Skills and Competencies
The role requires individuals who possess strong personal and professional skills, including:
Communication Skills
Applicants must be able to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing, especially when reporting incidents or interacting with staff and visitors.
Interpersonal Skills
Security Officers must be able to interact respectfully with employees, clients, and members of the public.
Problem-Solving Skills
The ability to quickly assess situations and take appropriate action is essential in maintaining security.
Listening Skills
Careful attention to instructions, reports, and observations is critical in security operations.
Computer Literacy
Basic computer skills are required for reporting incidents, managing access logs, and using security systems.
Planning and Organizing
Security Officers must be able to plan patrols, manage shifts, and organize security procedures effectively.
Analytical Thinking
The ability to evaluate risks and identify suspicious activities is important for maintaining safety.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The Security Officer role involves a range of duties aimed at ensuring the safety and security of the Labour Centre and its surroundings.
Access Control Management
One of the primary responsibilities is controlling access in and out of the Labour Centre and provincial office. This includes:
- Monitoring entry and exit points
- Verifying identification of staff and visitors
- Ensuring only authorized individuals gain access
- Recording visitor information and movement
Effective access control helps prevent unauthorized entry and protects government assets and personnel.
Protection of Assets and Information
Security Officers are responsible for securing the flow of information and safeguarding physical assets within the premises.
Duties include:
- Monitoring sensitive areas within the building
- Ensuring protection of confidential documents
- Preventing theft or unauthorized removal of assets
- Maintaining confidentiality of internal information
This responsibility is essential in ensuring compliance with government security standards.
Conducting Security Patrols
Regular patrols are a key part of the job. Security Officers must:
- Conduct routine patrols inside and outside the building
- Inspect offices, corridors, and entry points
- Identify potential security risks or hazards
- Report suspicious activities or safety concerns
Patrolling helps deter criminal activity and ensures a visible security presence.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
Security Officers play a crucial role during emergencies. They are expected to:
- Assist with evacuation procedures during emergencies
- Ensure safe and orderly evacuation of staff and visitors
- Follow emergency protocols and safety regulations
- Report incidents immediately to supervisors
Preparedness during emergencies such as fire or security threats is a critical aspect of this role.
Internal Investigations and Rule Enforcement
Security Officers are also responsible for maintaining discipline and enforcing security regulations.
Duties include:
- Conducting internal investigations when required
- Reporting security breaches or suspicious behavior
- Enforcing departmental security rules and procedures
- Completing incident reports accurately and timeously
This ensures accountability and compliance with security policies.
Work Environment
The Gqeberha Labour Centre is a professional government environment where security plays a vital role in daily operations.
Security Officers will work in both indoor and outdoor environments, depending on operational needs. The job may require standing for long periods, performing patrols, and working shifts, including early mornings or late hours.
Applicants must be physically fit and able to handle high-pressure situations when necessary.
Personal Attributes Required
Successful candidates should demonstrate the following personal qualities:
- High level of discipline
- Strong sense of responsibility
- Honesty and integrity
- Alertness and attention to detail
- Professional behaviour at all times
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Respect for authority and procedures
Security work requires individuals who are trustworthy and committed to maintaining a safe environment.
Importance of the Security Officer Role
Security Officers play a critical role in protecting government institutions and ensuring that public services operate without disruption.
At the Gqeberha Labour Centre, security personnel help:
- Protect employees and visitors
- Secure sensitive government information
- Maintain order within public service facilities
- Prevent criminal activity and unauthorized access
Their work supports the smooth functioning of the Department of Employment and Labour and ensures that public services are delivered safely and efficiently.
Employment Equity Considerations
The Department encourages applications from a diverse range of candidates, including:
- African males
- Coloured males and females
- Indian males and females
- White males
- Persons with disabilities
This reflects the Department’s commitment to transformation, inclusivity, and equal opportunity in the workplace.
Application Process
Interested candidates may apply using the following methods:
Postal Applications
Deputy Director: Labour Centre Operations
Private Bag X6045
Port Elizabeth
6000
Hand Delivery
VSN Building
116–134 Govan Mbeki Avenue
Gqeberha
Email Applications
Applicants must ensure that all supporting documents are included and correctly submitted before the closing date.
Enquiries
For further information regarding the position, applicants may contact:
Mr S Mshumpela
Tel: (041) 506 5002
Applicants are encouraged to use this contact for clarification on requirements or application procedures.
Start Your Application Here
Tips for Applicants
To improve your chances of being shortlisted, consider the following:
Ensure PSIRA Registration
Make sure your Grade C PSIRA certificate is valid and up to date.
Highlight Security Experience
Include all relevant experience such as:
- Access control
- Patrolling
- Alarm monitoring
- Incident reporting
- Building security
Prepare a Professional CV
Your CV should be clear, structured, and include accurate contact details and references.
Final Thoughts
The Security Officer vacancies at the Gqeberha Labour Centre present a valuable opportunity for qualified individuals seeking stable employment within the South African public service.
With a competitive salary of R201 093 per annum, structured working conditions, and opportunities to contribute to national security operations, this role is ideal for disciplined and experienced security professionals.
Successful candidates will play an important role in safeguarding government facilities, ensuring public safety, and enforcing security regulations within a critical government institution.
If you meet the requirements and are passionate about security work, this is an excellent opportunity to build a career in the public sector.
Prepare your application carefully and submit it before the closing date to avoid missing out on this opportunity.