The Department of Employment and Labour has officially announced a new round of UIF Client Service Officer positions for 2026, with seven (7) openings available at various Labour Centres across South Africa. These opportunities are ideal for applicants with Grade 12 and strong communication and administrative skills who want to work in public service and frontline client support.
This recruitment forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to reinforce frontline services in the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), a critical public benefit system that supports workers during unemployment, maternity leave, adoption leave, and other qualifying circumstances.
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About the UIF Client Service Officer Role
UIF Client Service Officer plays a pivotal role in assisting members of the public with unemployment insurance matters, ensuring that benefit applications are processed correctly and that clients receive efficient, professional support.
Number of Vacancies
A total of 7 positions are open under Post 02/33 of the Public Service Vacancy Circular 02 of 2026.
Duty Stations and Reference Numbers
- Modimolle Labour Centre – Ref No: HR4/4/6/120 (4 posts)
- Tzaneen Labour Centre – Ref No: HR4/4/6/121 (1 post)
- Lephalale Labour Centre – Ref No: HR4/4/6/122 (1 post)
- Calvinia Labour Centre – Ref No: HR4/4/8/150 (1 post)
Salary and Benefits
The successful candidates will receive an annual salary of R269,499, which aligns with government pay scales for entry-level service officer positions.
Additional benefits include pension and medical aid contributions, annual leave, and access to government training and development programmes.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for these posts, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Education
Matriculation / Grade 12 / Senior Certificate is required.
Knowledge Areas
Applicants should be knowledgeable about:
- The Unemployment Insurance Act and Regulations
- The Unemployment Insurance Contributions Act
- The Public Finance Management Act (PFMA)
- The Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA)
- Batho Pele service principles
- UIF and Department of Labour policies and procedures
Skills Needed
- Strong verbal and written communication
- Customer care and interpersonal skills
- Ability to interpret legislation and procedural guidelines
- Computer literacy
- Conflict and time management competencies
- Good telephone etiquette and problem-solving ability
Key Responsibilities
UIF Client Service Officer helps members of the public by performing duties such as:
- Screening and assisting clients who approach labour centres
- Capturing and processing UIF benefit applications
- Registering payment continuation forms
- Providing essential administrative support to ensure efficient service delivery
The role is customer-facing and requires professionals who are patient, detail-oriented, and capable of handling client queries respectfully.
Closing Date for Applications
The deadline for applications is 06 February 2026. Applicants must ensure that they submit their materials before this date to be considered.
How to Apply for the UIF Client Service Officer Job
Applicants should prepare the following:
Documents to Include
- Completed new Z83 application form (available at www.gov.za/documents)
- Updated CV/resume
- Certified copies of qualifications and ID
- Any other relevant supporting documents
Submission Instructions
Submit your application to the Chief Director: Provincial Operations at the appropriate address.
Hand-deliver, post, or email the application package using the correct email for the specific duty station.
Ensure that the reference number and job title are clearly indicated in the subject line if submitting via email.
Note: Incomplete applications, late submissions, or use of the old Z83 form may result in your application being rejected. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Apply early, roles in the UIF are popular and fill up quickly.
Use clear, professional formatting on your CV.
Double-check all documents to ensure they are complete and legible.
Prepare for assessment, selection panels may test your understanding of key UIF policies and service delivery expectations.
What Makes This Role Valuable?
This position is a great entry point into public service for candidates who are:
Newly qualified or seeking their first government job
Interested in public sector customer service
Passionate about helping unemployed or vulnerable members of society
A role as a UIF Client Service Officer offers practical experience, career growth potential, and the opportunity to build a foundation for future roles in government administration.
Conclusion
The UIF Client Service Officer (X7 posts) recruitment for 2026 provides an excellent opportunity for Grade 12 holders to join the Department of Employment and Labour. These roles support frontline unemployment insurance operations, offering applicants valuable work experience, job security, and structured growth potential in the public sector.
Apply before the closing date — and make sure your application is complete and compelling.
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