Department of Justice
The DOJ&CD in South Africa offers careers in roles like correctional officers, who ensure facility security, and administrative staff, who manage essential office functions. These roles offer stability, competitive pay, and opportunities for impact and growth.
Job Description & Details
Correctional officers and administrative support staff are vital to the DOJ’s mission of justice and safety. Correctional officers ensure order in facilities, while administrative staff handle documentation and client communications, providing stable income, career growth, and public service opportunities.
Types of Roles Available for Correctional Officers and Administrative Support Staff
The DOJ offers several positions in these areas, allowing professionals to specialize or advance in roles based on their skills and experience. Key roles include:
- Correctional Officers: Work within correctional facilities to monitor inmates, maintain security, and support rehabilitation programs.
- Administrative Support Staff: Include roles such as clerks, secretaries, and office assistants who perform essential administrative tasks like filing, document management, and client services.
Each position plays an important role in the DOJ’s operations and offers unique career paths for individuals interested in security, public service, or administrative work.
Responsibilities of DOJ Correctional Officers
Correctional officers are tasked with maintaining order, enforcing rules, and ensuring the safety of inmates and staff within correctional facilities. Key responsibilities include:
- Monitoring Inmate Activity: Supervising inmates during daily activities, meals, and rehabilitation programs.
- Ensuring Security and Safety: Conducting searches, checking for contraband, and responding to any security breaches or emergencies.
- Documenting Incidents: Recording details of any altercations, rule violations, or incidents that require disciplinary action.
- Supporting Rehabilitation Programs: Encouraging inmate participation in educational, vocational, and therapeutic programs to support their rehabilitation.
Correctional officers work directly within correctional facilities, so they must be vigilant, fair, and capable of handling challenging situations.
Responsibilities of DOJ Administrative Support Staff
Administrative support staff provide essential office management and support functions, ensuring that DOJ operations run efficiently. Their primary responsibilities include:
- Document and Record Management: Handling, filing, and storing legal documents and client files.
- Scheduling and Coordination: Managing appointments, meetings, and communication between clients, attorneys, and other DOJ staff.
- Customer Service: Assisting visitors and clients, answering phone calls, and providing general information regarding DOJ services.
- General Office Support: Maintaining office supplies, processing mail, and assisting with administrative tasks that keep the DOJ’s operations flowing smoothly.
These responsibilities require organizational skills, attention to detail, and a customer service mindset, as administrative staff often serve as the first point of contact for clients and the public.
Salaries for Correctional Officers and Administrative Support Staff at the DOJ
The DOJ offers competitive salaries for both correctional officers and administrative support staff, with pay structures based on experience, education, and specific responsibilities:
- Correctional Officers: Generally earn between ZAR 12,000 and ZAR 25,000 per month, depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility.
- Administrative Support Staff: Salaries for clerks, secretaries, and assistants range from ZAR 10,000 to ZAR 20,000 per month, with higher salaries for specialized or supervisory positions.
Both roles offer additional benefits, such as pension plans, healthcare, and potential overtime pay, making these positions financially viable and rewarding.
Requirements for Correctional Officer and Administrative Support Staff Positions
The qualifications required for these roles vary depending on the responsibilities and level of experience needed.
- Correctional Officers: Typically require a high school diploma (Grade 12) along with completion of specific correctional officer training programs provided by the DOJ. Physical fitness, background checks, and psychological assessments are often mandatory.
- Administrative Support Staff: Require a high school diploma, with additional training in office administration preferred. Strong computer skills, such as proficiency in Microsoft Office, are also valuable for administrative roles.
Each position may have additional requirements, such as experience in security (for correctional officers) or clerical experience (for administrative support staff), making them accessible to individuals at different career stages.
How to Apply for DOJ Correctional Officer and Administrative Support Staff Positions
The application process is standardized and can typically be completed online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the DOJ Careers Page: Go to the DOJ&CD website and access the “Careers” or “Vacancies” section.
- Find Relevant Job Openings: Browse job listings or use filters to locate positions for correctional officers or administrative support staff.
- Complete the Z83 Form: This government form is required for all South African government applications and is available on the DOJ website.
- Prepare Your CV and Supporting Documents: Include your resume, copies of qualifications, and identity documentation. Correctional officer candidates may need additional documents for background checks.
- Submit Your Application: Follow the instructions in the job listing for submitting your application, which may include email or postal options.
A well-prepared and thorough application is essential for moving forward in the hiring process.