Department of Water and Sanitation General Worker Jobs in 2025
If you are searching for an entry-level government job in South Africa, the Department of Water and Sanitation General Worker position could be the perfect opportunity.
This role is open to youth, unemployed individuals, and people with basic education who want a stable government career with growth potential. According to South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP), water infrastructure maintenance is one of the country’s biggest job-creation sectors—meaning more opportunities like this will continue to open.
In this complete guide, you will learn:
- Why this job is in demand
- Full job details & salary information
- Requirements & skills needed
- Duties of a general worker
- Step-by-step application process
- Professional CV tips to stand out
- Interview questions & answers
- Real growth opportunities in this field
This post is written in a job-format style, fully SEO-optimized, and structured to attract job seekers in top countries like the U.S., U.K., and Canada who may be researching public-sector job formats or HR trends in South Africa.
Job Summary – Department of Water and Sanitation Hiring General Workers
| Post Title | General Worker |
|---|---|
| Reference No. | 071125/17 |
| Branch | Infrastructure Management: Northern Operations |
| Directorate | Operations Northern |
| Salary | R138,486 per annum (Level 02) |
| Location | Roodeplaat Dam, Gauteng |
| Closing Date | 07-November-2025 at 4:30 PM |
About the Department of Water and Sanitation
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is responsible for:
- Managing South Africa’s water resources
- Maintaining dams, canals, pipelines, and reservoirs
- Ensuring safe drinking water systems
- Supporting national water infrastructure development
South Africa currently manages over 5,000 dams and reservoirs, making it one of Africa’s largest water infrastructure networks.
This creates stable employment for maintenance and general-labor workers.
Job Requirements for Department of Water and Sanitation General Worker
Minimum Requirements
- ABET Certificate
- Higher qualifications are an advantage
- Experience in gardening/maintenance preferred
- Ability to use gardening tools and equipment
- Knowledge of lawn care and maintenance
- Basic knowledge of infrastructure maintenance
- Ability to perform physical labor
Career Advantage Skills
While not mandatory, candidates with the following have a strong advantage:
- Basic mechanical knowledge
- Hands-on experience with weed control
- Understanding of safety procedures
- Teamwork and communication skills
Main Duties for Department of Water and Sanitation General Worker
As a DWS General Worker, your job includes:
- Grass cutting, gardening, and weed control
- Painting and cleaning facilities
- Clearing and maintaining firebreaks
- Applying herbicides safely
- Inspecting water infrastructure
- Maintaining dams, canals, pipelines, and buildings
- Loading and offloading equipment
- Following Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards
- Reporting defects and hazards
- General tasks assigned by supervisors
This is a hands-on, outdoor job requiring physical stamina.
Why Work as a Department of Water and Sanitation General Worker?
Government positions offer:
✔ Stable employment
✔ Pension and benefits
✔ Opportunities for growth
✔ Training and development programs
✔ Union protection and job security
Entry-level government jobs often become long-term careers.
Growth Path Examples
| Starting Position | Future Progression |
|---|---|
| General Worker | Artisan Assistant |
| Water Control Assistant | |
| Plant Operator | |
| Senior Water Plant Supervisor | |
| Technical Supervisor |
Workers who study while working (even short courses) can move into technician or supervisory roles.
Salary Breakdown
Annual Salary: R138,486
Estimated Monthly: ± R11,540 before deductions
With overtime, benefits, and annual increases, take-home income can grow significantly.
Who Should Apply?
This job is ideal for:
- Youth with no work experience
- General laborers
- Garden workers and cleaners
- Unemployed individuals seeking government careers
- People living near Roodeplaat Dam or Northern Gauteng
How to Apply for the Department of Water and Sanitation General Worker Job
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Download the new Z83 Government Application Form
- Fill it completely and sign
- Attach a detailed CV
- Attach certified copies of:
- ID
- Qualifications
- ABET / school certificate
- Submit before the deadline
📌 No late applications are accepted.
Best Practices for Your CV
Your CV should include:
- Personal details
- Education history
- Work experience (if any)
- Skills (gardening, maintenance, OHS awareness)
- Contactable references
Keywords to add in CV
- General maintenance
- Lawnmower operations
- Herbicide handling
- Basic plumbing/pipe work
- Physical labor experience
- Teamwork
This increases selection chances since HR filters CVs for keywords.
Sample Cover Letter
Application for the General Worker Position – Ref 071125/17
I am applying for the General Worker position at the Department of Water and Sanitation. I hold an ABET qualification and have hands-on experience in gardening, grounds maintenance, and general manual work.
I am physically fit, safety-conscious, and eager to contribute to maintaining public water facilities at Roodeplaat Dam. I can work in a team, follow instructions, and operate basic garden tools and machinery.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Common Interview Questions and Sample Answers
1️⃣ Why do you want this role?
I want to build a long-term career in public service and I enjoy hands-on work. The role aligns with my skills in maintenance, gardening, and safety-focused manual tasks.
2️⃣ What experience do you have in maintenance?
I have worked with lawn equipment, paint tools, and basic maintenance tasks including cleaning, clearing weeds, and maintaining outdoor facilities.
3️⃣ Can you work in extreme outdoor conditions?
Yes. I am physically fit and used to outdoor labor, including heat, mud, and rough terrain.
4️⃣ How do you handle safety?
I always follow safety instructions, wear PPE, and report hazards immediately.
Why These Jobs Matter – Industry Trends
Water infrastructure is critical to South Africa’s development. According to World Bank water resource reports, water infrastructure improvement supports:
- Public health
- Economic growth
- Climate resilience
- Job creation
Government investment in water maintenance means ongoing hiring.
For example, the South African government pledged billions in water infrastructure upgrades under the National Water & Sanitation Master Plan.
This means long-term job stability in this sector.
SEO: Internal and External Reference Links
(Add when posting online)
- Internal link example:
“See more government jobs on our Careers page” - External useful links:
- Official DWS Site: www.dws.gov.za
- South African Government Jobs Portal
- Z83 Form Download Link
Final Tips to Increase Your Success
✔ Apply early
✔ Attach all documents
✔ Keep copies
✔ Follow instructions
✔ Practice interview questions
✔ Hunt for similar positions while waiting
Conclusion
The Department of Water and Sanitation General Worker job is a powerful entry point into the government sector. With competitive salary benefits, long-term stability, and internal training, it’s an ideal opportunity for youth and job seekers looking to build a future.
This role gives you hands-on experience in maintenance, safety, and infrastructure management—skills valued in multiple sectors worldwide.
✅ Ready to Apply?
Deadline: 07 Nov 2025 – 4:30 PM
Prepare your documents, update your CV, and submit on time.
Government careers start here — take the first step!
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