Engineering · Circular 33 of 2026

Scientist Production Grade a - C

Department of Water and Sanitation

Overview

Scientist Production Grade A–C at the Department of Water and Sanitation in Pretoria, conducting flood frequency assessments and hydraulic modelling for dam safety purposes.

Requirements

  • A Science degree (BSc) (Hon) or relevant qualification.
  • Compulsory registration with the SACNASP as a professional Natural Scientist.
  • Three (3) years post-qualification Natural Science experience, preferably in flood frequency analysis (deterministic, empirical and statistical), hydraulic modelling, water resource simulation and yield modelling.
  • The disclosure of a valid unexpired driver’s license.
  • Understanding of hydrological processes.
  • Knowledge of the application of models such as HEC-RAS, the Water Resource Simulation Model 2000 (WRSM 2000), Water Resource Yield Model (WRYM), the CLASSR/PATCHR and/or similar models.
  • Experience in programme and project management.
  • Scientific methodologies and models.
  • Understanding of research and development.
  • Computer-aided scientific applications.
  • Knowledge of legal compliance.
  • Technical report writing.
  • Creating high-performance culture.
  • Professional judgement.
  • Data analysis, policy development and analysis.
  • Presentation and monitoring skills.
  • Decision- making, team leadership and analytical skills.
  • Creativity, financial management, customer focus and responsiveness.
  • Good communication skills both verbal and written.
  • Networking and computer literacy (including MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, ArcGIS).
  • People management, planning and organising.
  • Conflict and change management.
  • Problem-solving and analysis.
  • Willingness to travel throughout South Africa for the execution of duties whilst working irregular hours.

Duties

  • The successful candidate will be part of a team of hydrologists, primarily engaged in flood frequency assessments for dam safety purposes.
  • Such work will include (but not limited to): assisting colleagues with coordination of assigned work; assisting with flood data collection such as during and after extreme flood events and converting the flood data into hydrological information; extension and improvement of ratings and filling of gaps in data, etc. to improve the quality of hydrological information; execute acquisition and verification of relevant data and information for use in hydrological and flood frequency (deterministic, empirical and statistical) analyses and assessments at relevant flood sites; presenting findings of assessments at evaluation meetings and writing technical reports; assist with the undertaking of the water resource and yield studies and hydraulic assessments.

How to apply

Interested applicants must submit their applications via the online link https://erecruitment.dws.gov.za

Enquiries: Mr E Oakes Tel No: (012) 336 8525

Notes

Other related documentation such as copies of qualifications, identity document, driver’s license etc need not to accompany the application when applying for a post as such documentation must only be produced by shortlisted candidates during the interview date in line with DPSA circular 19 of 2022. With reference to applicants bearing professional or occupational registration, fields provided in Part B on the online Z83 must be completed as these fields are regarded as compulsory. Failure to complete or disclose all required information will automatically disqualify the applicant. No late applications will be accepted. Shortlisted candidates will be subjected to suitability checks (SAQA verification, reference checks criminal and credit checks). SAQA evaluation certificate must accompany foreign qualifications (only when shortlisted). Applications that do not comply with the above- mentioned requirements will not be considered. All shortlisted candidates for SMS posts will be subjected to a technical exercise and interview. Following the technical exercise and interview, a maximum of three (3) SMS candidates will undergo psychometric assessments to assess cognitive capabilities, behavioural preferences, emotional intelligence, and integrity and a pre-entry certificate obtained from the National School of government is required prior to the appointment. All shortlisted candidates, including the SMS, shall undertake two pre-entry assessments. One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. Candidates will be required to complete a financial disclosure form and undergo security clearance. Foreigners or dual citizenship holders must provide a police clearance certificate from country of origin (only when shortlisted). The Department of Water Sanitation is an equal opportunity employer. In the filling of vacant posts, the objectives of section 195 (1) (i) of the Constitution of South Africa, 1996 (Act No: 108 of 1996) the Employment Equity imperatives as defined by the Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No: 55 of 1998) and relevant Human Resources policies of the Department will be taken into consideration. Correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates only. If you do not hear from us within three (3) months of this advertisement, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful. Faxed applications will not be considered. The department reserves the right not to fill these positions. Women and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply and preference will be given to the EE Targets. OTHER POSTS

Post 33/108, sourced from the DPSA Circular 33 of 2026. Apply directly to Department of Water and Sanitation by 28 September 2026, quoting reference 280926/01. This is an unofficial index; the advert in the circular is authoritative.

Location
Pretoria
Salary
R791 157 – R1 189 767 p/a
Closing date
28 September 2026
Reference
280926/01
How to apply →

Apply directly to the department, by the closing date, quoting the reference.