Employment and Labour OHS: Inspector: Mechanical Engineering Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The Department of Employment and Labour is seeking a dedicated OHS Inspector specialising in Mechanical Engineering. This important role is based at the Stanger Labour Centre in KwaZulu-Natal.

This opportunity involves ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety standards, conducting comprehensive inspections, investigating incidents, and driving advocacy campaigns to promote adherence to labour legislation across various workplaces. No prior experience is required, making this an excellent entry point for qualified Mechanical Engineering professionals looking to contribute to workplace safety in South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

• Senior Certificate.
• A three-year recognised qualification at NQF Level 6/7 in Mechanical Engineering.
• Valid Driver’s licence.
• No experience is required.
• Knowledge of:
• Departmental policies and procedures.
• Occupational Health and Safety Act, as amended, and its Regulations.
• South African National Standards (Codes) that are incorporated into regulations.
• Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act.
• Unemployment Insurance Act.
• Skills in:
• Planning and Organising
• Communication
• Computer literacy
• Facilitation
• Interpersonal relations
• Conflict handling
• Negotiation
• Problem Solving
• Interviewing
• Presentation
• Innovation
• Analytical thinking
• Verbal and written communication
• Registration with a relevant, recognised professional body is an advantage but not compulsory.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and independently conduct inspections to ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, its regulations, and incorporated standards.
• Confirm registration under the Unemployment Insurance Act and the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act.
• Independently plan, investigate, and finalise reported incidents and complaints related to the OHS Act and relevant regulations, enforcing compliance as needed.
• Appear in court as a state witness when required.
• Conduct allocated proactive inspections as per schedule to monitor compliance with labour legislation and compile related reports.
• Plan and conduct independent advocacy campaigns on all labour legislation, analysing their impact and compiling reports.
• Contribute at a higher level to the planning, drafting, and maintenance of regional inspection plans and reports, including executing analysis and compiling consolidated statistical reports.

What the Work Involves

As an OHS Inspector specialising in Mechanical Engineering, you will be based at the Stanger Labour Centre, but your work will extend beyond the office. A significant part of the role involves independently conducting on-site inspections and investigations to ensure adherence to crucial occupational health and safety standards and labour legislation.

You will also be responsible for planning and delivering advocacy campaigns, contributing to regional reports, and may be required to represent the state in court. This role requires a blend of analytical thinking, independent action, and strong communication skills to engage with various stakeholders and enforce compliance effectively.

How to Apply

You can apply for this position via email, postal service, or by hand delivery.

• Email Applications:
• Send your application to: Jobs-KZN25@labour.gov.za

• Postal Applications:
• Address your application to:

Deputy Director Stanger Labour Centre P.O Box 138 Stanger, 4450

• Hand Deliver Applications:
• Deliver your application to:

12 EV Mohamed Street Cator House Stanger