How to Send Your CV to the Department of Labour Online in South Africa | Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
Learn how to send your CV to the Department of Labour online via the ESSA portal. Step-by-step guide for job seekers in 2025. fast and secure.
If you’re a job seeker in South Africa, one of the best ways to access employment opportunities is through the Department of Employment and Labour. With the increasing demand for digital services, the department now allows you to submit your CV online through its official platforms.
This guide will walk you through the exact steps on how to send your CV to the Department of Labour online, ensuring your profile reaches potential employers across various industries.
Why Submit Your CV to the Department of Labour?
Before we dive into the how-to, here are a few reasons why uploading your CV online through the Department of Labour is a smart move:
- Free job-seeking assistance
- Access to government-funded learnerships and internships
- Connection to verified employers
- Automatic inclusion in the ESSA (Employment Services of South Africa) database
- Eligibility for UIF support and job placement programmes
Step-by-Step: How to Send Your CV to the Department of Labour Online
Here’s how to submit your CV using the ESSA portal — the Department’s official job-matching system:
Step 1: Visit the ESSA Website
Go to the official Employment Services of South Africa (ESSA) portal:
👉 SEND CV at Department of Labour here
This is the only government-verified platform to upload your CV directly to the Department of Labour.
🔹 Step 2: Register as a Job Seeker
If you’re a first-time user:
- Click on “Register”
- Select “Job Seeker”
- Complete the online registration form with:
- ID number
- Personal details
- Contact information
- Education level and work experience
Tip: Make sure your details are accurate and match your CV.
Step 3: Upload Your CV
Once registered:
- Log in using your username and password
- Go to the “My Profile” section
- Click “Upload CV”
- Choose your file (PDF or Word format preferred) and click “Submit”
📁 Maximum file size: Usually 2MB. Keep it concise and professional.
🔹 Step 4: Apply for Jobs Online
After uploading your CV:
- Browse available vacancies listed under the Job Opportunities tab
- Click Apply on positions that match your skills
- Some employers may contact you directly through the ESSA system
🔹 Step 5: Visit Your Nearest Labour Centre (Optional but Recommended)
Even after submitting your CV online, it’s advisable to:
- Visit a Department of Labour office
- Verify your profile with a consultant
- Get assistance with job applications or interview preparation
📍 Find your nearest centre here: www.labour.gov.za
What to Include in Your CV
Make sure your CV includes the following before uploading:
- Full name and contact information
- Career objective (short and specific)
- Educational background
- Work experience
- Skills and competencies
- References (at least 2)
Keep the format neat and free of spelling or grammar errors. A professional-looking CV increases your chances of being matched with job opportunities.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Uploading the wrong file type (e.g., .jpeg or .png)
❌ Leaving out key details like education or skills
❌ Forgetting to update your contact information
❌ Submitting multiple incomplete registrations
Always double-check your profile after registration and keep it updated.
Department of Labour
Sending your CV to the Department of Labour online is a smart, free, and accessible way to connect with job opportunities in South Africa. Whether you’re a recent graduate, unemployed, or looking to change careers, the ESSA portal is designed to help you take the next step.
Make sure your CV is polished, your details are accurate, and you stay active on the platform. Government employers and private companies regularly search the database for suitable candidates, and your next opportunity might be just a click away.
Benefits of Working at the Department of Labour in South Africa
1. Job Security
- As a government employee, you enjoy stable and secure employment.
- Public sector jobs offer long-term career opportunities with consistent demand across the country.
2. Competitive Salary Packages
- Salaries are based on government pay scales, with annual increases and progression opportunities.
- Positions often include 13th cheques, performance bonuses, and cost-of-living adjustments.
3. Comprehensive Benefits
Employees receive a full range of government benefits, including:
- Medical aid (via GEMS or other approved providers)
- Pension fund contributions
- Housing subsidies
- Funeral and life insurance coverage
4. Career Development Opportunities
- Access to ongoing training, workshops, and upskilling programmes.
- Opportunities for promotion and internal transfers within government departments.
- Support for further education and qualifications related to your job function.
5. Structured Work Environment
- Defined working hours (typically 40 hours/week) with work-life balance.
- Clear job roles and responsibilities under the Public Service Act and Labour Relations Act.
- Union representation and employee rights are protected.
6. Public Impact and Service
- Contribute to meaningful work such as:
- Reducing unemployment
- Protecting workers’ rights
- Promoting fair labour practices
- You help build a better society by working with vulnerable communities and job seekers.
7. National Mobility and Transferability
- The Department has offices in all provinces, allowing you to apply or transfer to different locations.
- Job experience is recognised across other government departments and sectors.
8. Inclusive and Diverse Workplace
- Commitment to employment equity and diversity in hiring.
- Opportunities for youth, women, and people with disabilities.
- Employee wellness and support programmes are available.
9. Access to Internal Vacancies and Learnerships
- Employees have first access to internal postings and promotion opportunities.
- You may also qualify for government-funded bursaries, internships, or leadership development programmes.
Final Thought
Working at the Department of Labour is more than just a job — it’s a chance to build a stable career, grow professionally, and make a real difference in South Africa’s economy and labour market. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance in public service, it’s a smart and secure career choice.
Below is a complete sample CV and motivation letter tailored for a position at the Department of Labour in South Africa. This template is suitable whether you’re applying for an internship, administrative role, or entry-level government job.
Sample CV: Department of Labour Application
Full Name: Sipho Mthembu
ID Number: 940123XXXXXX
Contact Number: 078 123 4567
Email Address: sipho.mthembu@email.com
Address: 45 Freedom Street, Soweto, Johannesburg, 1868
Career Objective
Dedicated and detail-oriented individual with a strong interest in labour law, compliance, and public service. Seeking an opportunity to work at the Department of Employment and Labour to contribute to improving workplace standards and promoting employment in South Africa.
Education
Diploma in Public Management
Tshwane University of Technology – 2021
NQF Level: 6
Modules: Labour Relations, Human Resources, Administrative Law
National Senior Certificate (Matric)
Siyakhula Secondary School – 2017
Subjects: English, Business Studies, Economics, Mathematics Literacy
Work Experience
Intern – HR Department
City of Ekurhuleni Municipality | Jan 2022 – Dec 2022
- Assisted with filing, data capturing, and scheduling
- Supported recruitment processes and document verification
- Maintained confidentiality of employee records
Skills and Competencies
- Knowledge of Employment Equity and Labour Relations Acts
- Strong administrative and filing skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Computer literacy (MS Office, Excel, ESSA portal)
- Bilingual in English and isiZulu
- Time management and team collaboration
References
Ms. Thandi Mokoena
HR Manager – City of Ekurhuleni
Tel: 011 456 7890 | Email: thandi.mokoena@ekurhuleni.gov.za
Mr. Patrick Dlamini
Lecturer – TUT Public Management
Tel: 012 345 6789 | Email: dlaminip@tut.ac.za
Sample Motivation Letter
[Your Full Name]
45 Freedom Street
Soweto, Johannesburg
078 123 4567 | sipho.mthembu@email.com
Date: 27 May 2025
To:
The Human Resources Manager
Department of Employment and Labour
Pretoria, South Africa
Subject: Application for Administrative Officer / Entry-Level Position
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in a position within the Department of Labour, as advertised or available for entry-level candidates. With a Diploma in Public Management and practical experience gained through a municipal internship, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your department’s mission of promoting employment and labour rights in South Africa.
I am particularly passionate about fair labour practices, compliance, and public service delivery. I have developed strong administrative, interpersonal, and communication skills, which I believe align with the Department’s standards of service excellence. My knowledge of the Labour Relations Act, Employment Equity Act, and basic HR procedures has prepared me to work in a structured, law-governed environment.
I would welcome the opportunity to serve the public by supporting labour inspections, job placement services, or office administration roles. I am fully available for interviews and immediate employment.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to your response and am eager to contribute to the Department of Employment and Labour’s vision of a fair and equitable labour market.
Yours sincerely,
Sipho Mthembu
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