Introduction
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has announced a major recruitment drive for 381 Security Officer positions in the Free State and Northern Cape Region, based at Mangaung Maximum Correctional Centre.
This is one of the largest public-sector security recruitment opportunities currently available for South Africans seeking stable employment in law enforcement, corrections, and public safety.
These positions form part of the DCS’s ongoing effort to strengthen security, improve correctional operations, and ensure safe, secure, and humane detention in line with constitutional principles and rehabilitation objectives.
Security Officers in DCS play a dual role: maintaining strict security while supporting offender rehabilitation and reintegration programmes. This makes the position both operationally demanding and socially impactful.
Quick Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Security Officers (CB1-1, CB1-2, CB1-3) |
| Reference | FSNC 2026/01/26 |
| Number of Posts | 381 |
| Location | Mangaung Maximum Correctional Centre (Free State & Northern Cape Region) |
| Minimum Qualification | Matric + Correctional Science Learnership / Basic Training / ITC |
| Closing Date | 20 February 2025 at 15h45 |
| Employer | Department of Correctional Services (DCS) |
| Employment Type | Permanent Public Service |
Salary Structure
The Security Officer role is structured into three progressive levels:
CB1-1 (Entry Level)
- Salary: R212 358 per annum
- Experience: None required
- Suitable for newly trained correctional officers entering the service.
CB1-2 (Intermediate Level)
- Salary: R257 895 per annum
- Experience: 10 years on CB1-1
- Recognises operational experience and emerging supervisory capability.
CB1-3 (Advanced Level)
- Salary: R313 521 per annum
- Experience: 10 years on CB1-2
- Reflects senior operational expertise and leadership responsibilities.
This structured progression provides long-term career growth within Correctional Services.
Why This Opportunity Matters
This recruitment drive matters because it creates large-scale employment in a critical government sector responsible for justice, rehabilitation, and public safety.
For applicants, it offers:
- Permanent government employment
- Job security and pension benefits
- Structured career progression
- Skills development in security and corrections
- A meaningful role in the justice system
For communities, well-trained correctional officers contribute to safer prisons, better rehabilitation outcomes, and reduced reoffending rates.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Security Officers will perform operational duties including:
Facility Security
- Controlling access to correctional facilities
- Monitoring movement between secured zones
- Conducting security patrols
- Managing entry and exit points
Inmate Management
- Escorting inmates internally and externally
- Guarding inmates at public institutions such as courts and hospitals
- Maintaining order and discipline in correctional environments
Operational Support
- Conducting physical security inspections
- Managing security equipment and control rooms
- Ensuring proper storage and use of safety tools
Rehabilitation Support
- Maintaining a safe environment for rehabilitation programmes
- Supporting human development initiatives for offenders
- Ensuring security does not hinder rehabilitation efforts
This role requires discipline, professionalism, and ethical conduct at all times.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 (Matric)
- Successful completion of one of the following:
- Correctional Science Learnership
- Basic Training in Corrections
- Induction Training Course (ITC)
Experience Requirements
- CB1-1: No experience required
- CB1-2: 10 years relevant experience at CB1-1
- CB1-3: 10 years relevant experience at CB1-2
Required Competencies and Attributes
Candidates must demonstrate:
- Computer literacy
- Firearm competency
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Report writing ability
- Knowledge of correctional legislation and policies
- Understanding of minimum security standards in correctional centres
These competencies reflect the realities of working in a high-risk correctional environment.
Application Process
Documents Required
Applicants must submit:
- Completed Z83 Application Form
- Certified copies of:
- South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Correctional Science / Basic Training / ITC certificates
- Any other supporting documents
Submission Options
Postal Applications:
Regional Commissioner Free State & Northern Cape
Recruitment Section
P/Bag X20530
Bloemfontein, 9300
Hand Delivery:
103 Zastron Street
Agrimed Building
Bloemfontein, 9300
Email Applications:
FSNCHRM@dcs.gov.za
Enquiries
Contact:
Ms Mokuni NJ / Ms Molutsoane N / Ms Ramncwana B / Ms Radebe T
Tel: 082 306 9027
Closing date: 20 February 2025 at 15h45
Late applications will not be considered.
Final Advice to Applicants
- Ensure all documents are certified and legible
- Use the correct reference number: FSNC 2026/01/26
- Apply early to avoid last-minute submission issues
- Keep copies of all documents submitted
This is a rare opportunity to enter Correctional Services on a large scale.