The Eastern Cape Department of Health has announced 14 Household Worker vacancies at Livingstone Tertiary Hospital in Gqeberha (Nelson Mandela Metro). If you have an ABET Level 2 certificate (NQF Level 1 or 2 or equivalent) and are looking for a government job that does not require previous work experience, this opportunity could be an excellent starting point.
Household Workers play an essential role in keeping hospitals safe, clean and hygienic. Although these positions are often overlooked, they are among the most important support roles within the healthcare system because patients, healthcare workers and visitors all depend on a clean environment to reduce the spread of infections.
The closing date for applications is 31 July 2026, so interested applicants should prepare their documents and submit their applications before the deadline.
Quick Overview
- Position: Household Worker (14 Posts)
- Department: Eastern Cape Department of Health
- Reference Number: ECHEALTH/HOSW/LIV/ES/23/07/2026
- Salary: R144 024 – R169 656 per annum (Salary Level 02)
- Closing Date: 31 July 2026
- Minimum Qualification: NQF Level 1 or 2 (ABET Level 2 Certificate or equivalent)
- Experience Required: None
Location
- Livingstone Tertiary Hospital
- Nelson Mandela Metro
- Gqeberha
- Eastern Cape
Why This Opportunity is Important
Many government vacancies require Grade 12, higher qualifications or previous work experience. These Household Worker positions are different because they are designed to provide opportunities to applicants with basic educational qualifications.
Hospitals operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Every ward, theatre, office, restroom and waiting area must be cleaned and maintained continuously. Without Household Workers, hospitals would struggle to maintain infection control standards and provide safe healthcare services.
This means successful applicants become part of the healthcare team, even though they are not doctors or nurses.
For many people, these positions also provide valuable experience that can open doors to future opportunities within government.
Official Requirements
According to the official advertisement, applicants must have:
- NQF Level 1 or 2 qualification (ABET Level 2 Certificate or equivalent)
- No previous work experience required
- Good communication skills
- Ability to work shifts
- Ability to work weekends
- Ability to work public holidays
- Ability to rotate when required
- Honesty and reliability
- Physical strength to perform demanding cleaning duties
- Ability to work well within a team
The official advertisement does not specify any age restriction.
The advertisement also does not indicate that applicants need a driver’s licence.
Understanding the Role of a Household Worker
Some applicants mistakenly believe Household Workers only sweep floors.
In reality, hospital Household Workers perform a wide range of important duties that directly affect patient safety.
Daily responsibilities include maintaining hygiene standards, preventing infections and ensuring hospital facilities remain clean throughout the day.
This work requires attention to detail because healthcare environments demand higher cleanliness standards than ordinary workplaces.
Official Duties
According to the Eastern Cape Department of Health, successful applicants will perform duties including:
Housekeeping and Cleaning
- Clean allocated areas
- Maintain cleanliness throughout hospital facilities
- Wash surfaces
- Dust furniture
- Polish appropriate areas
- Vacuum floors
- Sweep floors
- Clean bathrooms
- Clean restrooms
- Clean offices
- Remove garbage
- Maintain hygiene standards
Kitchen Responsibilities
- Clean kitchen equipment
- Wash kitchen utensils
- Clean meal utensils
- Keep utensils hygienic
Stock Control
- Monitor cleaning materials
- Monitor tea utensils
- Monitor meal utensils
- Keep cleaning equipment in good condition
- Report damaged equipment
- Report faulty machinery
- Report shortages of cleaning materials
Boardroom Preparation
- Arrange chairs
- Prepare glasses
- Prepare water
- Prepare meeting equipment
Safety Responsibilities
- Store cleaning products safely
- Lock doors
- Close windows
- Monitor fire hazards
- Monitor electrical hazards
- Report maintenance problems
Infection Prevention
- Follow Infection Control procedures
- Apply universal precautionary measures
- Assess hygiene standards
- Identify hygiene risks
- Maintain safe hospital environments
Skills That Can Help You Succeed
Although experience is not required, employers value applicants who demonstrate:
- Reliability
- Punctuality
- Respect
- Professional behaviour
- Ability to follow instructions
- Positive attitude
- Physical fitness
- Good teamwork
- Good communication
- Willingness to learn
These qualities often make a significant difference during recruitment.
Working Hours
Successful applicants should expect shift work.
This means you may be required to work:
- Morning shifts
- Afternoon shifts
- Night shifts
- Weekends
- Public holidays
Healthcare facilities never close, so support staff must be available throughout the year.
Salary and Benefits
Successful candidates will receive a salary of: R144 024 – R169 656 per annum
This is a Level 02 government salary.
Government employment may also include benefits in accordance with applicable public service policies. However, the official advertisement does not specify the full benefits package, so applicants should not assume additional allowances unless officially communicated.
How to Make Your Application Stronger
The official advertisement tells you the minimum requirements, but many applicants submit incomplete or poorly prepared applications.
Here are practical ways to improve your chances.
Complete the New Z83 Form Correctly
Use the new Z83 Application for Employment Form, as older versions may not be accepted.
Before submitting:
- Complete every required section.
- Do not leave mandatory fields blank.
- Sign the declaration.
- Ensure the reference number exactly matches the advert:
ECHEALTH/HOSW/LIV/ES/23/07/2026
Attach the Required Documents
Although departments may request certified documents only at later stages of recruitment, always read the advert carefully before submitting.
Where applicable, prepare:
- New completed Z83 Form
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copy of your qualification (if requested)
- Copy of your South African ID (if requested)
Do not include documents that were not requested.
Prepare a Simple but Professional CV
Your CV should clearly include:
- Personal details
- Education
- Contact information
- Skills
- Any volunteer work
- Community work
- School responsibilities
- References
Even if you have never worked before, a neat and organised CV creates a positive impression.
Create a Job Specific ATS CV and a Cover Letter Here
How to Write a Winning Motivational Letter for Government Jobs in South Africa
How to Write a Winning CV for Government Jobs in South Africa
Common Mistakes Applicants Should Avoid
Many applications are rejected because of avoidable errors.
Common mistakes include:
- Using the wrong reference number
- Using an outdated Z83 form
- Forgetting to sign the Z83
- Missing the closing date
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Incorrect contact numbers
- Poorly prepared CVs
- Illegible handwriting
- Missing required documents where requested
Taking time to review your application before submission can prevent unnecessary disqualification.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted to: Livingstone Tertiary Hospital
Hand deliver or courier your application to:
Human Resource Office
Nurses Home, 2nd Floor
Standford and Korsten Road
Gqeberha
5201
Reference Number: ECHEALTH/HOSW/LIV/ES/23/07/2026
Closing Date: 31 July 2026
Late applications are unlikely to be considered.
Enquiries
For enquiries regarding the advertised posts:
Ms L Mabanga– Telephone: (041) 405 2348
Email: Lindelwa.Mabanga@echealth.gov.za
Applicants should use these contact details only for legitimate enquiries regarding the vacancy.
Tools you may find useful:
- RDP / BNG Housing Eligibility Checker
- SASSA Grant Eligibility Checker
- SAPS / Metro / Traffic / DCS Eligibility Checker
- Youth Employment Eligibility Checker
- SA Bursary & NSFAS Eligibility Checker
- UIF Benefits Eligibility Checker and Payment Estimator
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Need Help?
Edupstairs Advice
Household Worker positions are often highly competitive because they require minimal formal qualifications and no previous experience. Do not underestimate the importance of submitting a neat, accurate and complete application.
Take time to complete the new Z83 form correctly, ensure your CV is well organised and submit your application well before the closing date. Even if this is your first government application, presenting yourself professionally can make a positive impression and improve your chances of progressing through the recruitment process.
Remember that every successful public servant started somewhere. This opportunity could be your first step into a rewarding career in the South African Public Service.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is previous work experience required?
No. The official advertisement states that no previous experience is required.
-
What qualification do I need?
You need an NQF Level 1 or 2 qualification, including an ABET Level 2 Certificate or an equivalent qualification.
-
Is Grade 12 required?
The official advertisement does not require Grade 12.
-
Where are these jobs located?
Livingstone Tertiary Hospital in Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Metro, Eastern Cape.
-
How many posts are available?
There are 14 Household Worker posts.
-
Will I work weekends?
Yes. Successful applicants must be willing to work weekends, public holidays and shifts.
-
Can I email my application?
The official advertisement instructs applicants to hand deliver or courier applications. It does not state that applications may be submitted by email.
-
What salary will successful applicants receive?
The advertised salary ranges from R144 024 to R169 656 per annum (Level 02).
-
Do I need physical strength for this job?
Yes. The official requirements state that applicants should have the physical ability to cope with the demands of the position.
-
What is the closing date?
Applications close on 31 July 2026.
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Disclaimer
This article is an independent opportunity explainer created by Edupstairs using information published in the official Eastern Cape Department of Health vacancy advertisement.
While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, applicants should always consult the official advertisement and follow the employer’s instructions when preparing and submitting their applications. Edupstairs is not involved in the recruitment or selection process and cannot influence hiring decisions.
Editorial Integrity
At Edupstairs, our goal is to help South Africans better understand employment opportunities by explaining official vacancy advertisements in plain language. We separate official information from our own practical guidance so readers can distinguish between employer requirements and independent advice.
Where information is not stated in the official advertisement—such as additional benefits, recruitment timelines or selection procedures—we do not speculate or invent details. Instead, we clearly indicate when information has not been provided.
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