Join the Department of Basic Education as an HR Assistant Director
| Job Title: | Assistant Director – Human Resource Development |
|---|---|
| Date: | Closing Date: 19 September 2025 |
| Location: | Pretoria, South Africa |
| Salary: | R582,444 per annum |
| Company: | Department of Basic Education |
| Reference Number: | DBE/02/2025 |
| Branch: | Finance and Administration |
Introduction
If you’re passionate about human resource (HR) development and want to make a tangible impact in public service, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) is hiring an Assistant Director for its HR Development and Social Responsibility unit. This opportunity is perfect for professionals eager to support transformation in education through structured training, employee wellness, and development initiatives. The position comes with government benefits, long-term career growth potential, and a chance to directly shape the HR landscape within a key national department. If you’re ready to step up in your HR career, this role is a significant move forward.
About the Role
The Assistant Director will lead the planning and implementation of various HR and development-focused programs within the Department of Basic Education. The role covers several essential HR development areas such as training, skills audits, bursary coordination, learnerships, internships, employee wellness, and diversity management. You’ll also coordinate major reporting obligations to national stakeholders like the DPSA, DPME, ETDP SETA, and more. This is a high-impact position for someone who understands the value of workforce planning in HRM and the performance management process in public service.
Who Should Apply
This opportunity is ideal for HR professionals with strong skills in people development and a passion for public service transformation. You should be comfortable managing various employee development initiatives, from onboarding and induction to internship coordination and diversity programs. If you have experience with employee performance management, HR ERP systems, or human resource performance management, you’ll find this role both familiar and rewarding. Candidates from underrepresented groups, particularly women and persons with disabilities, are strongly encouraged to apply as part of DBE’s Employment Equity Plan.
Skills & Requirements
To qualify, you must have a relevant three-year post-matric qualification (NQF level 6 or higher) and a minimum of three years’ experience in a supervisory HR development role. You’ll need excellent communication and writing skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and a firm grasp of computer systems — especially HR management software or cloud-based HR systems. Familiarity with HRIS systems, employee management software, and policies related to human capital management software is a plus. A working understanding of labour relations, equity, wellness campaigns, and skills development legislation is essential.
Benefits
Besides the competitive salary of R582,444 per year, working at the Department of Basic Education offers several other benefits. You’ll be joining a stable, high-impact government department that values continuous learning and professional development. The role allows you to lead initiatives that promote workplace inclusion, employee wellness, and talent growth. It’s also a great opportunity to work in an environment where modern HR systems and employee performance management software are increasingly integrated. DBE also encourages transparency and ethical leadership, with annual performance agreements and financial disclosures being part of the culture.
How to Apply
To apply, submit your application using the latest Z83 Application for Employment Form (available on the DBE website or any public service office). Make sure you fill it out completely and sign page 2. Attach a detailed and up-to-date CV — you do not need to submit certificates or other documents at this stage. Applications can be submitted via post to Private Bag X895, Pretoria, 0001, hand-delivered to 222 Struben Street, Pretoria, or emailed to Recruitment@dbe.gov.za. Use the reference number DBE/02/2025 in your application.
Closing Thoughts
If you’re serious about building a career in human resources and want to contribute to national development, this role is a golden opportunity. You’ll help drive HR programs and policies that impact thousands of public servants and educational stakeholders across South Africa. Whether you’re already working in HRM systems or looking to grow your influence in the public sector, don’t miss this chance to lead meaningful change. Apply before 19 September 2025 and take the next step toward shaping the future of HR in education.
