Correctional Services Vice-Chairperson Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

Correctional Services is seeking a dedicated individual for the role of Vice-Chairperson, serving on a Parole Board. This is a significant five-year term of office, which may be adjusted by the Minister in line with the Correctional Services Act. The role is remunerated on monthly rates as defined by National Treasury for statutory boards.

This vacancy is available across several regions and centres, including Klerksdorp within the Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West region. The Vice-Chairperson plays a critical role in the Criminal Justice System, focusing on the careful assessment and decision-making regarding offender cases.

Minimum Requirements

Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for this position:

• An appropriate NQF Level 7 qualification in any Criminal Justice field, Social Sciences, or a related discipline.
• At least three years of proven experience in a supervisory role or community leadership.
• Active involvement in community-based structures.
• A demonstrated commitment to a corruption-free administration.
• Good standing within the community with extensive life experience.
• A proven special interest in the Criminal Justice System.

Key Responsibilities

The Vice-Chairperson will undertake the following duties:

• Chair meetings in the absence of the Chairperson.
• Sign official documents when the Chairperson is unavailable.
• Participate in the analysis and evaluation of information from various sources to identify ongoing risk or dangerousness in individual offender cases.
• Apply knowledge and sound judgement to offender cases to determine if they can be safely released into the community, and recommend appropriate conditions for release.
• Participate in case hearings to assess risk, collaborating with others to make judgements based on available evidence.
• Formulate concise and structured summaries of relevant factors to assist in reaching decisions or recommendations.
• Participate in report writing, assist in drafting summaries, and support the Chairperson in recommending decisions.
• Act as an effective ambassador for the Parole Board at hearings and other events.

What the Work Involves

As Vice-Chairperson, your daily work centres on the critical task of assessing offender cases to determine their suitability for release and the conditions under which they might re-enter the community. This involves a rigorous process of analysing various forms of information, from electronic records to paper documents and oral testimonies given at hearings.

You will apply your expertise and judgement in a collaborative environment, working alongside other board members to weigh evidence and formulate decisions. A key part of the role is participating in hearings, where you will directly assess risk and contribute to the collective judgement. You will also be involved in documenting these assessments, drafting reports, and assisting the Chairperson in their final recommendations. Representing the Parole Board at various functions also forms part of this important public service role.