The Department of Health is inviting applications for two Forensic Pathology Officer Grade 1 positions at the Health District Office. The opportunity is suitable for candidates who have completed Grade 12 and hold a valid Code 8 driver’s licence.
Successful applicants will support forensic pathology and medico-legal services, including assisting with autopsy procedures, transporting deceased persons, handling documentation, maintaining records and supporting the identification process.
The advertised annual salary is R225,777, with a 13th cheque, optional medical aid and a conditional housing subsidy. Applicants should review the requirements and prepare the necessary documents before submitting their applications.
Department of Health Vacancies 2026: Key Details
- Employer: Department of Health
- Position: Forensic Pathology Officer Grade 1
- Reference number: AMAJ14/2026
- Centre: Amajuba Health District Office
- Salary: R225,777 per annum
- Additional benefits: 13th cheque, optional medical aid and conditional housing subsidy
- Minimum qualification: Grade 12 / Matric
- Driver’s licence: Valid Code 8
- Closing date: 10 November 2026
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Grade 12 or Matric.
- A valid driver’s licence, minimum Code 8.
The following qualifications and experience are recommended advantages:
- Computer literacy, including Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- At least six months of experience in mortuary services.
Applicants with relevant experience and computer skills may find these beneficial when performing the administrative and operational responsibilities associated with the role.
Duties and Responsibilities
The Forensic Pathology Officer Grade 1 will assist with administrative, technical and transportation duties within the forensic pathology service.
1. Autopsy and Identification Support
Responsibilities include preparing documentation required during autopsy procedures, identifying deceased persons for the doctor, taking verbatim notes as instructed and assisting with fingerprinting and photographing deceased persons for identification and recordkeeping.
The officer may also collect exhibits, samples and specimens under the direct supervision of a medical practitioner. Proper documentation, safe storage and the handover of exhibits to the South African Police Service (SAPS) are important for maintaining the chain of evidence.
2. Transportation of Deceased Persons
The position involves collecting and transporting deceased persons between death scenes and the medico-legal mortuary. Duties include loading and off-loading bodies, completing the required documentation and admitting bodies to the mortuary according to established procedures.
3. Mortuary and Technical Support
The successful candidate may assist with the reconstruction and weighing of deceased persons under supervision. Other duties include washing, shrouding and labelling bodies after examination and maintaining a clean and hygienic working environment.
The role also involves safeguarding the belongings of deceased persons and ensuring that property is handled and returned to the next of kin according to prescribed procedures.
4. Administration and Communication
Additional responsibilities include typing post-mortem documentation, maintaining filing systems and databases, preparing monthly statistics, assisting with stock control and performing reception and switchboard duties.
The officer may also communicate with families, undertakers, municipalities, hospitals and SAPS regarding identification, burial arrangements, cremations and other related matters.
Knowledge and Skills
Applicants should have or be willing to develop knowledge of mortuary administrative processes, medico-legal protocols, the criminal justice system, waste management policies, infection control and occupational health and safety.
Computer skills, accurate recordkeeping, communication and the ability to handle sensitive information professionally are important in this role.
The Department of Health promotes equal opportunities and encourages people with disabilities to apply.
Application Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following:
- A completed and up-to-date Z83 application form.
- A detailed CV showing qualifications, relevant experience and dates of employment.
The Z83 form must be completed in full, and applicants must quote reference number AMAJ14/2026.
Copies of qualifications and other supporting documents are not required at the initial application stage. These will be requested from shortlisted candidates. Applicants with foreign qualifications must attach a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation certificate. Non-South African citizens and permanent residents or work permit holders must provide the required supporting documentation.
Final Thoughts
These Department of Health vacancies offer an opportunity for Matric-qualified applicants with a valid Code 8 driver’s licence to work in forensic pathology services. Candidates with mortuary experience and computer literacy may have an advantage.
How to Apply
Applications must be emailed to Lungile.Mbatha3@kznhealth.gov.za, for the attention of the Human Resource Manager, Amajuba Health District Office.
Alternatively, applications may be delivered to the applications box at:
Human Resource Manager
Amajuba Health District Office
50 Harding Street, Nedbank Building, First Floor
Newcastle, 2940
Enquiries: Mr M.J. Mambi – 034 312 2706
Closing date: 10 November 2026
Submit the completed Z83 form and detailed CV before the deadline, ensuring that the reference number is clearly indicated.
DOWNLOAD THE Z83 FORM HERE
VIEW THE JOB ADVERT HERE