JOBS AT DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

SUMMARY OF JOB POSTS LISTED

 

South Africa’s Department of Health Opens Applications 

The South African Department of Health has announced several high-level job opportunities aimed at strengthening leadership and improving healthcare delivery across the country. These executive positions form part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance management capacity, accelerate healthcare reform, and support the transformation of the public health sector.

Both positions are based in Pretoria and offer competitive remuneration packages aligned with the Senior Management Service framework. Experienced professionals with strong backgrounds in healthcare administration, public health management, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

The department emphasized that the recruitment process supports its employment equity objectives and aims to improve diversity and representation in leadership positions.

Director-General: Health (Five-Year Contract)

One of the most significant vacancies is the role of Director-General: Health, the highest administrative position within the national health department. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the department’s strategic direction and operational management.

Salary Package

The role offers an all-inclusive annual remuneration package of approximately R2.35 million, which includes salary, pension contributions, and a flexible component structured in accordance with Senior Management Service guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

The Director-General will serve as the Accounting Officer for the department and lead the implementation of national health policies and programmes. Responsibilities include:

• Driving transformation within the national health sector through the Presidential Social Compact’s nine pillars

• Aligning departmental strategies with national priorities such as the National Development Plan

• Leading the rollout and implementation of the National Health Insurance system

• Strengthening health governance and improving service delivery across public healthcare facilities

• Supporting initiatives to reduce diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis

• Promoting health research, innovation, and effective technology use in the healthcare sector

• Providing policy and strategic advice to the Minister of Health

The role also includes oversight of financial management, coordination with other government departments, and leading programmes that improve maternal, child, and youth health outcomes.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Grade 12 certificate and an NQF Level 8 qualification in Health Sciences or a related field recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority

• A minimum of 10 years of senior management experience, including 5 years at Senior Management Service level in the public sector

• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and strategic management skills

• A valid driver’s license

Deputy Director-General: Hospital Tertiary Services and Human Resource Development

The department is also recruiting for a Deputy Director-General (DDG) responsible for hospital tertiary services and the development of the healthcare workforce.

Salary Package

The position offers an annual remuneration package of approximately R1.81 million, structured according to Senior Management Service guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

The DDG will play a key role in strengthening hospital governance, improving tertiary healthcare services, and developing policies that support workforce development.

Key responsibilities include:

• Facilitating governance structures for hospitals operating within the National Health Insurance framework

• Developing policies that guide the training and development of healthcare professionals

• Supporting implementation of the national Human Resources for Health strategy

• Establishing governance policies for Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

• Overseeing Forensic Chemistry Laboratory services that support the criminal justice system

• Improving forensic pathology service standards and management

• Managing nursing education policies and professional practice frameworks

• Supporting healthcare infrastructure modernization and planning

The DDG will also oversee grant funding linked to health facility revitalization programmes and ensure the availability of skilled clinical and technical personnel.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Grade 12 certificate and an NQF Level 8 qualification in Health, Public Health, or Social Sciences

• At least 8 years of senior management experience

• Strong knowledge of hospital management, tertiary healthcare services, and health policy implementation

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to travel regularly and work effectively under pressure

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit:

• The official Z83 application form

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Applications may be submitted electronically to the department’s recruitment email or delivered to the department’s offices in Pretoria.

Important notes:

• Only the Z83 form and CV are required at the initial stage

• Supporting documents will be requested from shortlisted candidates

• Applicants may undergo technical, integrity, and competency-based assessments as part of the selection process

The closing date for applications is 30 March 2026.

Strengthening Leadership in South Africa’s Health Sector

These appointments reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening leadership within the public healthcare system. As the country continues to address major healthcare challenges — including disease management, workforce development, and infrastructure modernization — experienced leaders are needed to guide strategic reforms.

Qualified professionals with a passion for improving health outcomes are encouraged to apply and contribute to building a stronger and more equitable healthcare system in South Africa.

 

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