The DPSA vacancy notice, published in 16 January 2026, outlines vacancies for a wide range of positions, from entry-level to senior management – ideal for public service candidates. This article highlights essential information about Circular 26, including key dates, position types, application process, eligibility criteria and important tips for making a strong submission.
DPSA Vacancy Circular 01 of 16 January 2026
The DPSA publishes weekly public service vacancy notices that list vacant positions in national departments (e.g., health, labour, justice) and nine provinces. These notices, including Circular 26, serve as the official recruitment source for government positions across South Africa. Circular 26, issued on 29 July 2025, contains the latest positions, with the closing date for applications usually being 16 January 2026, depending on the role and department.
Deadline and Schedule
- Notification Number: 26 of 2025
- Issuance Date: 25 July 2025 DPSA
- General Deadline: Most vacancies close on 25 July 2025, while some are extended to early August depending on department-specific deadlines
As per the 2026 Annual Programme, Circular 26 follows Circular 01 of 16 January 2026 and precedes Circular 27 (1 August), following the DPSA’s weekly vacancy publication schedule.
Who issues the circular and what it includes
Although the DPSA issues circulars, it does not directly conduct recruitment. Instead, individual government departments conduct applications for the vacancies listed in the circular. Candidates submit CVs and supporting documents, including standard forms (Z83), directly to the departments listed. Queries should also be sent to specific departments – not to the DPSA.
The following jobs are covered by Circular 26:
National ministries of Defence, Labour, Home Affairs, Health, Justice, etc.
Provincial administrations across Gauteng, Western Cape, Northern Cape, Mpumalanga and others.
Notable job categories and levels of responsibility
Circular 26 includes multiple bands of positions:
Senior Managerial Positions (SMS Level – 13/14/15)
Positions within the Western Cape Government such as the Chief Director: Asset Management (PT29/2025), which involves strategic oversight of provincial asset management, financial systems and supply chain policy. Applicants must have a recognized degree (NQF Level 7), senior management experience, completion of the SMS pre-entry program, and preparation for competency-based assessment.
Mid to Entry-Level Roles (Assistant Directors, Inspectors, Support Staff)
Various openings include:
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Deputy Director: Labour Centre Operations
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Assistant Director: Supply Chain & Labour Market Info
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Inspector BCEA
These roles usually require relevant National Diplomas or degrees (NQF 6–7), practical experience, valid driver’s license, and competencies in public service frameworks like the PFMA and Batho Pele principles DPSA.
Specialized & Technical Posts
Vacancies span healthcare (e.g., nurses, pharmaceutical managers), engineering, audit, HR, and legal advisory positions within departments such as Health and Human Settlements
Application Requirements & Instructions
Form Z83
All applicants must complete the latest Z83 application form, effective from 1 January 2021, detailing qualifications, competencies, work experience, and references. Using outdated forms may result in disqualification
Supporting Documents
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Updated CV
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Certified copies of ID and academic certificates (dated within last 6 months)
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If holding foreign qualifications, an evaluation certificate from SAQA is required during the shortlist stage
Submission Guidelines
Submit your application as instructed—usually via email, online portal, or postal delivery. Late or incomplete submissions will be rejected
Selection Procedure
Shortlisted candidates may undergo:
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Technical assessments
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Competency-based evaluations using DPSA SMS tools
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Interviews and security vetting (criminal records, qualifications, credit checks)
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The successful appointment to SMS positions may require completion of the Nyukela Programme (SMS Pre-entry Certificate)
Why Circular 26 Matters to Job Seekers
1. Diverse career opportunities
Suitable for a variety of educational backgrounds and skills at the national and provincial levels, Circular 26 is broad, covering a variety of sectors such as healthcare, administration, technology, education and justice.
2. Structured public recruitment
Following a formal weekly publication schedule, the DPSA creates a transparent and centralised recruitment process across the public service
3. Clear application process
The process is standardised using the Z83 form, clear submission guidelines and clear closing dates which facilitate candidate preparation.
4. Focus on employment equity
Preference is given to applicants whose recruitment will increase the representation of people with race, gender or disability in line with the Employment Equity Act.
Applicant Tips: How to Stand Out
- Download and complete the official Z83 form accurately and completely.
- Create a suitable CV highlighting relevant experience, skills and qualifications.
- Mention the correct reference number and job title in your application.
- Submit well in advance of the deadline—avoid any delays. If emailing, ensure that attachments are in PDF files.
- Be prepared for assessment and interview: familiarise yourself with the competency-based assessment framework.
- Apply strategically to roles that are consistent with your qualifications and preferred position.
- Check the DPSA and department websites for updates after submission, particularly if shortlisted.
16 January 2026
circular 16 January 2026 (issued in early and mid-July) contained previous vacancies – some posts from Circular 23 have been withdrawn or revised with new closing dates in Circular 25. Circular 27 has been dated 1 August 2025, continuing the weekly publication pattern.
Final Thoughts
DPSA Vacancy Circular 26 of 2025, which was published on July 25, offers a wide range of career opportunities in government jobs for a variety of applicants. Whether you are aiming for senior positions like Chief Director or mid-level technical and administrative positions, Circular 26 is a great entry point.
