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 and correctional services.
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For individuals interested in public safety, offender rehabilitation, and long-term government careers, this opportunity offers structured career progression, formal training recognition, and a stable salary framework aligned with national public service standards.
Quick Overview
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)
Salary scale:
- CB1-1: R212 358 per annum
- CB1-2: R257 895 per annum
- CB1-3: R313 521 per annum
Minimum qualification: Matric/Grade 12 + Correctional Science Learnership/Basic Training/ITC
Closing date: 20 February 2025 at 15h45
Salary Structure
The Security Officer role is structured into three progressive levels:
CB1-1 (Entry Level)
- Salary: R212 358 per annum
- Experience: None required
This level is suitable for newly trained candidates entering correctional services.
CB1-2 (Intermediate)
- Salary: R257 895 per annum
- Experience: 10 years on CB1-1
This level recognises operational experience and supervisory capability.
CB1-3 (Advanced)
- Salary: R313 521 per annum
- Experience: 10 years on CB1-2
This level reflects senior operational expertise and leadership responsibilities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following:
- Grade 12 (Matric)
- Successful completion of:
- Correctional Science Learnership
- Basic Training
- 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
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Report writing ability
- Knowledge of relevant legislation and correctional policies
- Understanding of minimum security standards in correctional centres
These competencies reflect the operational realities of correctional environments.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Security officers play a critical operational role. Responsibilities include:
Facility Security
- Access control within correctional centres
- Monitoring movement between secured zones
Inmate Management
- Internal and external escort duties
- Guarding inmates at public institutions
Operational Support
- Physical security inspections
- Control of stores and security equipment
- Managing security control rooms
Rehabilitation Support
- Ensuring a secure environment for rehabilitation programmes
- Supporting human development initiatives for offenders
The role balances safety enforcement with rehabilitation facilitation.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit:
- Completed Z83 form
- Certified copies of:
- ID
- Matric certificate
- Training certificates
- Supporting documents
Submission Options
Postal:
Regional Commissioner Free State & Northern Cape
Recruitment Section
P/Bag X20530
Bloemfontein, 9300
Hand delivery:
103 Zastron Street, Agrimed Building
Bloemfontein, 9300
Email: FSNCHRM@dcs.gov.za
Contact persons:
Ms Mokuni NJ / Ms Molutsoane N / Ms Ramncwana B / Ms Radebe T
082 306 9027
How Edupstairs Helps You Prepare
At Edupstairs, we don’t just post opportunities—we help you win them.
Recommended Tools:
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- Learnership and Internship Readiness Quiz
Edupstairs Advice for Applicants
If you’re serious about applying, focus on:
Preparation
- Ensure documents are certified and complete
- Highlight training and security experience
Professional Readiness
- Emphasise discipline and reliability
- Demonstrate understanding of public service values
Career Strategy
- Treat this as a long-term pathway
- Build experience toward supervisory roles
Application Positioning
- Showcase correctional training clearly
- Demonstrate knowledge of security procedures
Career Growth Path After This
A Security Officer role opens multiple career pathways within the correctional system:
Operational Advancement
- Senior Security Officer
- Shift Commander
- Correctional Supervisor
Specialist Roles
- Intelligence & investigations
- Tactical response units
- Offender rehabilitation support
Administrative Leadership
- Facility management
- Policy implementation roles
Long-Term Government Careers
- Regional operations management
- National departmental leadership pathways
This role can serve as a foundation for a lifelong public service career.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Do I need experience to apply?
No, CB1-1 entry level posts require no prior experience.
- Where will I work?
Mangaung Maximum Correctional Centre in the Free State & Northern Cape region.
- Is firearm competency required?
Yes, it is listed as a key competency.
- Can I apply via email?
Yes, applications may be emailed to the address provided.
- What training must I have completed?
Correctional Science Learnership, Basic Training, or ITC.
- Is this permanent employment?
Appointments are made under the Correctional Services Act, aligned with public service employment structures.
CLOSING DATE: 20 FEBRUARY 2026
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Disclaimers
- Applicants must verify all application details before submission.
- Late applications may not be considered.
- Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee appointment.
- Final decisions remain at the discretion of the Department of Correctional Services.
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