director: legal services, Ref No. DLS/HO/022026

Apply for director: legal services at department of department of public works and infrastructure. Closing date 2026-02-27.

Job Summary

Department: department of public works and infrastructure

Directorate: legal services

Province: kwazulu natal

Reference: DLS/HO/022026

Closing Date: 2026-02-27

Salary: R1,266,714

No Of Vacancy: 1

Salary Level: 13

Centre: Head Office - Pietermaritzburg

Minimum Qualification

Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Degree (NQF Level 7) and Admittance as an Attorney or Advocate

Experience Required

5 Years Senior Management in Legal Services & Public Sector Litigation

Required Competencies & Skills

  • Advanced knowledge of South African Constitutional, Administrative, and Contract Law
  • Proven strategic capability and leadership within a legal context
  • High-level drafting and legal analytical skills
  • Proficiency in Public Service legislation and the PFMA
  • Exceptional dispute resolution and negotiation abilities
  • Admittance as a legal practitioner (Attorney/Advocate)
  • Successful completion of the SMS Pre-entry (Nyukela) certificate

Requirements

  • Minimum of five (5) years' middle or senior management experience within a legal environment
  • Extensive experience in civil litigation and contract management

Key Responsibilities & Duties

  • Direct and oversee the management of all civil litigation matters involving the Department
  • Manage the drafting, vetting, and negotiation of complex legal documents, contracts, and service level agreements
  • Provide high-level strategic legal opinions and authoritative advice to the Departmental leadership
  • Lead the development, review, and implementation of internal policies and legal frameworks
  • Oversee the strategic management of the Directorate's resources, including budget, personnel, and operational planning
  • Ensure departmental compliance with all relevant provincial and national legislation
  • Represent the Department in legal forums and coordinate with the Office of the State Attorney

Salary Detail

Remunaration

R1266714 per annum (Level 13) (all-inclusive package to be structured in accordance with the rules for SMS)

Salary Criteria

per annum

How to Apply

Contact Detail

Reference No:

DLS/HO/022026

Application Process

Follow these steps to ensure your application is not disqualified:

  • Step 1: Download the New Z83 Form (2021) below.
  • Step 2: In 'Section A', quote Reference Number: DLS/HO/022026
  • Step 3: Ensure you sign and date the form on the last page.
  • Step 4: Click 'Submit Application' to send your Z83 and CV to the department.

For job applications in South Africa, you can easily access the official Z83 form in two convenient ways: Download Z83 (PDF) for a ready-to-use version, or choose the Editable New Z83 Form to complete online before printing. Both options ensure compliance with government requirements and save time during the application process.

Ready to submit? Click the button below to visit the official department page.

Apply on Official Government Site

Frequently Asked Questions

Shortlisted candidates must undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical technical exercise to test legal and managerial proficiency, and an integrity assessment. Following this, a formal DPSA competency-based assessment will be required.
While you may apply without it, the recommended candidate must produce the SMS Pre-entry (Nyukela) certificate issued by the National School of Governance (NSG) before the appointment can be finalized. It is highly advisable to start the course immediately.
Yes. The requirements specify that the candidate must be an Admitted Attorney or Advocate. Proof of admission and current good standing with the Legal Practice Council (LPC) will be required during the vetting process.
You may be shortlisted and interviewed without the certificate; however, you cannot be officially appointed to this Level 13 position until you successfully obtain the SMS Pre-Entry Certificate from the National School of Government (NSG).
You must submit only a fully completed and signed New Z83 form (effective 01 Jan 2021) and an updated CV in PDF format, merged into a single document. Do not attach qualifications or ID at this stage.
Yes, a minimum of an NQF Level 7 qualification is strictly required. If your qualification's NQF level is unclear, it will be assessed against SAQA standards and marked as 'to be confirmed' during the verification process.

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