Listing Reference: SA-352
Listing Status: Applications Open
Position Summary
Company: South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA)
Industry: Forensic Services / Public Sector / Aviation
Job Category: Trainee / Graduate Programme / Investigations
Location: Midrand, Gauteng, South Africa
Contract Type: 1–2 Year Fixed-Term Contract
Remuneration: Market-Related Stipend
EE Position: Yes – Employment Equity Candidates Prioritised
Closing Date: 11 June 2025
Introduction
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) is a leading national regulatory body committed to promoting aviation safety and governance. As part of its mission to uphold integrity and reduce the risk of financial misconduct, SACAA is recruiting dynamic individuals to join its Forensic Services Department as Trainees. This highly sought-after opportunity offers hands-on exposure to forensic auditing, fraud risk management, and investigative techniques in a structured work environment.
The Forensic Services Trainee Programme aims to build future-ready professionals with practical knowledge in identifying, investigating, and mitigating financial crimes. Successful candidates will gain on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced forensic specialists while contributing to the preservation of public trust and aviation safety. The role also presents the opportunity to work closely with various stakeholders and law enforcement agencies in real-world investigations.
Job Description
The Forensic Services Trainee will operate under close supervision and be responsible for supporting forensic investigations, conducting fraud awareness initiatives, and helping SACAA safeguard its operations from financial crime. This entry-level role forms part of SACAA’s broader fraud risk management and forensic auditing strategy.
Key duties include:
- Supporting forensic investigations in line with prescribed methodologies and standards
- Assisting in identifying fraud-prone areas within SACAA departments and recommending preventative measures
- Collecting statements, conducting interviews, and gathering factual and documentary evidence
- Participating in fraud risk awareness campaigns and supporting internal stakeholders through training and communications
- Compiling accurate forensic investigation reports and submitting findings to management
- Liaising with external law enforcement and justice system agencies, where required
- Assisting in the implementation of corrective actions and preparing materials for internal disciplinary hearings or legal proceedings
- Maintaining the integrity and chain of custody for all evidence gathered
The trainee will also be involved in ad hoc investigative support, unscheduled audits, and data analysis work as needed. Regular feedback loops will be maintained with the department manager to ensure that progress is tracked, and learning outcomes are achieved.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal applicant is a recent graduate with a strong academic foundation in forensic auditing, law, or fraud risk management. A passion for investigative work, attention to detail, and a high level of personal integrity are key attributes SACAA looks for in potential forensic trainees. The candidate must be proactive, organized, and comfortable working in confidential and high-stakes environments.
Applicants should be open to learning, possess sound analytical thinking skills, and demonstrate the ability to interact professionally with internal teams, external agencies, and key stakeholders. As this is a developmental role, prior experience is not mandatory, though candidates with up to one year of experience in relevant areas will have an advantage.
Role Responsibility
The Forensic Services Trainee will play a supporting role in a wide range of anti-fraud and investigatory functions. Responsibilities include:
- Assisting in executing forensic investigations under the guidance of senior forensic officers
- Conducting background checks, analysing financial documentation, and reviewing compliance-related records
- Gathering, logging, and safeguarding physical and digital evidence in accordance with SACAA protocols
- Attending fraud hotline case reviews and following up on allocated reports
- Participating in internal fraud awareness campaigns to promote ethical conduct across SACAA units
- Writing reports summarising findings, detailing processes followed, and suggesting corrective actions
- Ensuring documentation is stored securely and accessible for audit or legal purposes
- Preparing visual representations of investigative timelines and transaction flows
- Supporting management in planning training sessions or awareness activities for staff
Trainees may also be requested to assist the internal audit team when capacity allows and contribute to ongoing fraud prevention and governance improvement projects.
Skills and Attributes
To succeed in the role, candidates should possess a balanced mix of technical know-how, communication skills, and professional discipline. The following skills and personal attributes are considered essential:
- Working knowledge of forensic auditing principles and investigative procedures
- Basic understanding of fraud typologies, risk management, and the regulatory framework
- Strong verbal and written communication abilities
- Analytical thinking and attention to detail
- Ability to maintain objectivity and confidentiality at all times
- Team player with the willingness to learn and adapt to a dynamic work environment
- Time management and ability to prioritise workload effectively
- High ethical standards and professional integrity
- Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and digital evidence systems
- Ability to handle sensitive information responsibly and discretely
Additional skills that will be considered advantageous include:
- Knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA)
- Basic legal research capabilities
- Prior exposure to audit or compliance environments
- Experience in writing investigative or disciplinary reports
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
- A National Diploma in Forensic Investigation, Forensic Auditing, Law, or related qualification at NQF Level 6
- South African citizenship or permanent residency
- No criminal record or history of financial misconduct
- Up to 1 year of experience in a forensic or fraud risk environment (advantageous, not mandatory)
Additional Notes
- All SACAA appointments are subject to Section 98 of the Civil Aviation Act (Act 13 of 2009)
- Candidates will undergo security vetting prior to appointment
- SACAA supports the principles of employment equity, and EE candidates will be prioritised
- If applicants do not receive feedback within 90 days of the closing date, the application should be considered unsuccessful
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Closing Date
Applications must be submitted on or before 11 June 2025
Conclusion
The SACAA Forensic Services Trainee Programme presents a unique opportunity for emerging professionals to build a meaningful career in the field of forensic investigation, within one of South Africa’s most respected aviation authorities. This role offers rich learning, a supportive structure, and a front-row seat to the ongoing efforts to combat corruption, fraud, and financial crime in public sector organisations. If you’re committed to ethical excellence and passionate about protecting public assets, this programme is the perfect entry point into a growing and essential industry.