Deputy Commissioner: Correctional Security Operations

About the role

The Department of Correctional Services is hiring a Deputy Commissioner: Correctional Security Operations, based in National Head Office. This is a permanent post, paying R1,582,272 a year. Re-advertisement How to apply: should be submitted online at https://careers.dcs.gov.za/. Emailed, post or hand delivered applications will not be considered. Reference number to quote: HO 2026/11/02 Closing date: 09 November 2026 @ 15H45. Use the new Z83 form and attach a detailed CV. Note: Candidates who previously applied need to re-apply. Appointment under the Correctional Services Act.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic direction within the chief directorate.
• Develop strategies, policies, procedures and frameworks to ensure alignment with business plan of the department.
• Ensure implementation and monitoring of the operational plans in line with the departmental strategic plan.
• Ensure safe and secure DCS facilities and provide security standards services with respect to DCS.
• Ensure that sufficient and effective emergency support team services are available in correctional centres to support officials in their duties to create a safe environment for both inmates and officials.
• Manage the creation and maintenance of a national operational centre.
• Manage the effective capacitation and management of emergency support teams.
• Manage stakeholder relations.
• Management of liaison in relation to client expectations (internal & external).
• Effectively participate in cluster programs (NatJOINTS etc).
• Manage correctional programmes rendered in the department.
• Ensure that correctional programmes are rendered effectively in the department.
• Develop policies based on the national guidelines practices, procedures and policies and ensure the implementation thereof.
• Management of risks within the chief directorate.
• Develop action plans to mitigate the identified risks.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the control measures in place.
• Management of human resources, finance, assets and performance information.

Requirements

• An undergraduate qualification (NQF level 7) in Security Management/Criminology/Behavioural Sciences or relevant qualification as recognized by SAQA.
• A certificate for entry into the Senior Management Services (SMS) obtained from the National School of Government (NSG) is compulsory and should be submitted prior to appointment.
• Five [5] years’ experience at a senior managerial level in a similar environment.
• Security clearance.
• Computer literacy.
• Valid driver’s licence.
• Required.
• Knowledge: Knowledge and understanding of the South African Criminal Justice System and the Correctional Services system and architecture.
• Understanding of public service policy and related legislative framework (Public Service Act and Regulations, Public Finance Management Act, with emphasis on the Correctional Service Act 111 of 1998 as amended).
• Competencies and Attributes:
• DCS/public service management knowledge
• Policy development and analysis
• Knowledge and understanding of security management dynamics
• Intelligence and counter-intelligence operations and analysis
• Research
• Diplomacy and negotiation skills
• Risk management
• Strategic management and capability
• Programme and project management