The South African Police Service has announced 102 permanent entry level vacancies within its Human Resource Development Division. The opportunities are available at SAPS Academies across multiple provinces for applicants with Grade 9 or ABET Level 4 qualifications.
If you are looking for a government job that does not require Matric this recruitment drive presents an excellent opportunity to begin a career within the South African Police Service. The advertised positions include Groundsman, Cleaner and Food Service Aid roles with an annual salary of R144 024.
These vacancies are spread across Gauteng, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal, Limpopo and the Western Cape.
SAPS Entry Level Vacancies Overview
| Position | No. of Posts | Salary |
| Groundsman | 23 | R144 024 per annum |
| Cleaner | 66 | R144 024 per annum |
| Food Service Aid | 13 | R144 024 per annum |
Total Posts: x102
Employer: South African Police Service (SAPS)
Division: Human Resource Development
Employment Type: Permanent
Why You Should Apply
Working for SAPS provides an opportunity to gain stable government employment while contributing to the daily operations of police training academies across South Africa. Successful applicants will assist with maintaining clean, safe and well-maintained facilities that support the training of future police officers.
Available Positions
1. Groundsman
Available Centres
- SAPS Academy Atteridgeville
- SAPS Academy Moloto
- SAPS Academy Chatsworth
- SAPS Academy Roodeplaat
- SAPS Academy Paarl
- SAPS Academy Addo
- SAPS Academy Thabazimbi
- SAPS Academy Bhisho
- SAPS Academy Bishop Lavis
- SAPS Academy Graaff Reinet
- SAPS Academy Mthatha
- SAPS Academy Oudtshoorn
- SAPS Academy Philippi
- SAPS Academy Tshwane
- SAPS Academy Ulundi
Main Duties
Successful candidates will be responsible for:
- Maintaining gardens and surrounding grounds
- Removing refuse
- Loading and unloading goods
- Cleaning equipment
- Washing state vehicles
- Operating lawn mowers
- Operating tractors and gardening machinery
- Maintaining hygiene around SAPS premises
2. Cleaner
Available Centres
- SAPS Academy Mankwe
- SAPS Academy Atteridgeville
- SAPS Academy Bhisho
- SAPS Academy Bishop Lavis
- SAPS Academy Graaff Reinet
- SAPS Academy Mthatha
- SAPS Academy Oudtshoorn
- SAPS Academy Philippi
- SAPS Academy Tshwane
- SAPS Academy Ulundi
Main Duties
Successful candidates will perform duties including:
- Cleaning offices
- Dusting furniture
- Vacuuming carpets
- Mopping tiled floors
- Cleaning bathrooms
- Removing refuse
- Handling cleaning equipment and materials
- Maintaining hygiene standards throughout SAPS facilities
3. Food Service Aid
Available Centres
- SAPS Academy Benoni
- SAPS Academy Bhisho
- SAPS Academy Bishop Lavis
- SAPS Academy Graaff Reinet
- SAPS Academy Mthatha
- SAPS Academy Tshwane
- SAPS Academy Ulundi
Main Duties
Food Service Aids will be responsible for:
- Preparing refreshments
- Assisting with food preparation
- Serving meals
- Cleaning kitchen equipment
- Preparing dining halls
- Maintaining hygienic food preparation areas
- Supporting food service operations
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- South African citizen
- Be proficient in English and at least one other official South African language
- ABET Level 4
- Grade 9/ Standard 7
- NQF Level 1 qualification recognised by SAQA
- Be able to provide documentary proof of qualifications
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills
- Good communication skills
- Ability to read and write
- Ability to work with others professionally
- Willingness to work extended hours when required
Knowledge and Competencies
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Understanding of Occupational Health and Safety procedures
- Knowledge of handling cleaning detergents
- Ability to operate basic machinery and equipment
- Good interpersonal skills
- Reliability
- Ability to work independently
- Good work ethic
- Professional conduct
Placements
Successful candidates may be appointed at SAPS Academies located in:
- Gauteng
- Eastern Cape
- KwaZulu Natal
- Limpopo
- Western Cape
Applicants should indicate the correct reference number for the academy where they wish to apply.
Salary and Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Annual salary of R144 024
- Government employment benefits applicable to the position
- Stable employment within SAPS
- Practical workplace experience
- Career growth opportunities within the public service
Who Should Apply?
These vacancies are ideal for:
- School leavers
- Grade 9 graduates
- ABET Level 4 holders
- Entry level job seekers
- Unemployed South Africans
- Applicants seeking permanent government employment
- Individuals interested in facility maintenance or food service careers
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Grade 9 or ABET Level 4 qualification
- Any additional supporting documents requested in the official SAPS advertisement
Ensure all documents are clear and certified according to the application requirements.
How to apply
- Applications must be submitted according to the instructions provided in the official SAPS Vacancy Circular 23 of 2026.
NB: For application address, other posts and Reference numbers follow the SAPS application portal
Applicants should:
- Apply for the correct reference number
- Submit all required supporting documents
- Ensure applications reach SAPS before the closing date stated in the official advertisement
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Matric?
- No. These positions require Grade 9, Standard 7 or ABET Level 4 (NQF Level 1).
How many vacancies are available?
- A total of 102 permanent posts are available.
Which positions are available?
- Groundsman
- Cleaner
- Food Service Aid
Is previous experience required?
- The advertisement does not state previous work experience as a requirement.
Can applicants from all provinces apply?
- Yes. Vacancies are available across several provinces, and eligible South African citizens may apply for any advertised post.
Career Opportunities After Appointment
These positions can provide valuable public service experience and may open opportunities in:
- Government support services
- Facilities management
- Grounds maintenance
- Cleaning services
- Catering support
- General administration within SAPS
- Public sector employment
Final Thoughts
With 102 and counting vacancies available across multiple SAPS academies nationwide, eligible applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents and submit their applications before the official closing date.
