Last Updated: 10 July 2026
The Department of Electricity and Energy (DEE) has announced several high-level career opportunities as part of Public Service Vacancy Circular 24 of 2026, released by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) on 10 July 2026.
These vacancies are among the highest-paying government jobs currently advertised, offering annual all-inclusive salary packages ranging from R1,317,384 to R1,554,696. The positions are aimed at highly experienced professionals with postgraduate qualifications and extensive expertise in the nuclear and energy sectors.
The Department is recruiting for a Nuclear Technology Specialist and three Specialist positions focusing on Energy Generation, Energy Distribution, and Energy Transmission. All posts are based at the Department’s Head Office in Pretoria and form part of the Senior Management Service (SMS).
Available Vacancies
1. Nuclear Technology Specialist
Reference Number: DEE2026/009
Location: Head Office, Pretoria
Salary: R1,554,696 per annum (Salary Level 14), all-inclusive remuneration package — the highest-paying position advertised by the Department in this circular
Minimum Requirements: Grade 12; a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Engineering (MEng) specialising in Nuclear Power (NQF Level 9); successful completion of the Nyukela Senior Management Service Pre-entry Programme; a minimum of 10 years’ experience in the nuclear industry; extensive knowledge of nuclear technology, legislation, and policy; and an understanding of government systems and regulatory processes.
Key Responsibilities: Providing strategic advice on nuclear technology, supporting national nuclear energy programmes, conducting technical assessments and investigations, mentoring departmental officials, and supporting policy development.
Enquiries: Mr Katse Maphoto, Tel: 072 832 1145
Apply to: Vacancies1@dee.gov.za
Note: Women from all race groups, as well as Indian, Coloured and White candidates, are encouraged to apply.
2. Specialist: Energy Generation (2 posts)
Reference Number: DEE2026/010
Location: Head Office, Pretoria
Salary: R1,317,384 per annum (Salary Level 13), all-inclusive remuneration package
Minimum Requirements: A relevant postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8) in Energy Studies, Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Power Systems Management; the Nyukela SMS Pre-entry Certificate; a minimum of 5 years’ research experience at middle management level; and knowledge of energy legislation, project management, and financial management.
Key Responsibilities: Providing technical support for government energy policies, conducting research on the Energy Complex, supporting the development of Shareholder Compacts, and providing technical recommendations to senior management.
Enquiries: Ms Kubeshnie Bhugwandin, Tel: (012) 406 7614
Apply to: Vacancies1@dee.gov.za
3. Specialist: Energy Distribution
Reference Number: DEE2026/011
Location: Head Office, Pretoria
Salary: R1,317,384 per annum (Salary Level 13)
Minimum Requirements: Same as the Energy Generation post above — relevant postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8), Nyukela SMS Pre-entry Certificate, and 5 years’ research experience at middle management level, with knowledge of electricity distribution systems.
Key Responsibilities: Supporting electricity distribution policies, conducting technical research, developing strategic recommendations, and supporting government energy initiatives.
Enquiries: Ms Kubeshnie Bhugwandin, Tel: (012) 406 7614
Apply to: Vacancies2@dee.gov.za
4. Specialist: Energy Transmission
Reference Number: DEE2026/012
Location: Head Office, Pretoria
Salary: R1,317,384 per annum (Salary Level 13)
Minimum Requirements: Same as above — relevant postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8), Nyukela SMS Pre-entry Certificate, and 5 years’ middle management research experience, with knowledge of electricity transmission systems and financial management.
Key Responsibilities: Supporting national transmission programmes, conducting technical research, assisting with strategic planning, and providing technical advice to senior management.
Enquiries: Ms Kubeshnie Bhugwandin, Tel: (012) 406 7614
Apply to: Vacancies3@dee.gov.za
Who Should Apply?
These vacancies are designed for experienced professionals already working in senior technical or management positions within the energy sector, with backgrounds in nuclear engineering, electrical engineering, energy studies, power systems, or energy policy. These positions are not suitable for recent graduates or early-career professionals, given the extensive industry experience and postgraduate qualifications required.
About the Department of Electricity and Energy
The Department of Electricity and Energy is responsible for developing and implementing South Africa’s national electricity and energy policies. It oversees strategic planning for electricity generation, transmission, and distribution while supporting energy security and infrastructure development. As with all Senior Management Service positions, remuneration follows the all-inclusive SMS package structure, with specific benefit details confirmed as part of your official offer of employment if you are successful.
Skills That Can Strengthen Your Application
Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate strategic leadership, policy analysis, technical report writing, project and financial management, stakeholder engagement, and strong research and analytical skills — all essential competencies for Senior Management Service positions.
How to Apply
- Complete the latest 2021 Z83 Application Form — applications on the outdated version will not be accepted.
- Prepare a comprehensive CV including qualifications, employment history with start/end dates, leadership experience, key achievements, and contactable references.
- Combine your Z83 form and CV into a single PDF document — JPEG or photograph submissions will not be accepted.
- Email your application to the correct address for your chosen post, quoting the correct reference number in the subject line. Each vacancy requires its own separate application.
Closing Date: 24 July 2026 — walk-in applications close at 16h00, online applications close at 23h59.
Recruitment Process
Shortlisted candidates will undergo a technical competency assessment, panel interview, and Generic Managerial Competency Assessment, alongside standard criminal record, qualification, citizenship, credit, and employment reference checks. Applicants with foreign qualifications must provide a SAQA evaluation report if shortlisted.
Nyukela SMS Requirement
All Senior Management Service appointments require successful completion of the Nyukela Pre-entry Certificate Programme, offered by the National School of Government. Applicants who have not completed the programme before appointment will not be eligible for appointment to an SMS position.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the old Z83 application form
- Submitting documents as images instead of a combined PDF
- Forgetting to quote the reference number
- Sending applications to the wrong email address
- Submitting one application for multiple posts
- Leaving sections of the Z83 incomplete
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these entry-level jobs?
No. These are Senior Management Service positions requiring postgraduate qualifications and significant industry experience.
Do I need the Nyukela certificate?
Yes. All SMS appointments require successful completion of the Nyukela Pre-entry Programme.
Are these permanent government jobs?
Yes. These are permanent Senior Management Service positions within the Department of Electricity and Energy.
Can I apply for more than one vacancy?
Yes, but each vacancy requires its own separate application and supporting documents.
What is the closing date?
Applications close on 24 July 2026.
For the complete list of vacancies in this circular, download the official DPSA Circular 24 of 2026.