General Worker Jobs in Skukuza 2026

General Worker Jobs in Skukuza | Animal Health | Government Vacancy 2026 (Mpumalanga)

Are you a hardworking, reliable individual who loves working with animals and enjoys an outdoor environment? The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) is recruiting a General Worker to join the Animal Health team at Skukuza in Mpumalanga. This is a fantastic entry-level government opportunity in one of South Africa’s most iconic wildlife areas near Kruger National Park.

POST 14/05 : GENERAL WORKER REF NO: 3/3/1/26/2026

Directorate: Animal Health

Salary: R144 024 per annum (Level 02)

Centre: Mpumalanga: Skukuza

This permanent public service position offers job security, government benefits, and the chance to play a vital support role in animal health, disease control, and wildlife management. If you have basic education and a passion for hands-on work in a dynamic wildlife setting, this could be your ideal next step.

About the Opportunity and the Workplace

Skukuza is located within the world-renowned Kruger National Park region, an area of exceptional biodiversity. The Animal Health Directorate works to protect both domestic livestock and wildlife from diseases, monitor health status, and support veterinary services that are critical for South Africa’s agricultural economy, conservation efforts, and public health.

As a General Worker, you will provide essential day-to-day support to veterinarians, animal health technicians, and researchers. Your work directly contributes to maintaining high biosecurity standards, proper care of animals in quarantine, and keeping facilities clean and functional. This role is physically active and involves extended hours, but offers immense satisfaction for those who care about animals and the environment.

Working for the South African government at Level 02 means stable income, structured career progression, skills development opportunities, and the pride of serving in a nationally important sector.

Why This General Worker Position Stands Out

• Located in beautiful Skukuza, Mpumalanga – a dream workplace for nature lovers.
• No advanced qualifications needed – basic education (ABET) is sufficient.
• Recommended experience with wild or large animals gives you an advantage.
• Contribute to animal welfare, disease prevention, and conservation.
• Employment Equity targets: Coloured, Indian, White Males; African, Coloured, White Females; and Persons with Disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Opportunity to gain valuable skills in animal husbandry, biosecurity, and facility maintenance.

Detailed Duties and Responsibilities

Your daily tasks will be varied and hands-on. Key responsibilities include:

Facility Cleaning and Biosecurity:

• Clean relevant workstations and properly dispose of infectious material.
• Thorough cleaning of predator cages, stables, and bomas.
• Removal of bedding, washing of floors and walls in animal holding facilities.
• Maintain strict biosecurity standards at all workstations to prevent disease spread.

Waste Management:

• Operate the incinerator for safe disposal of refuse and waste.
• Record all items incinerated and disposed of according to procedures.

Animal Care and Husbandry:

• Care for animals and birds in quarantine or accommodation.
• Supply the correct foodstuffs to animals as per veterinary instructions.
• Rapidly report any signs of illness or abnormal behaviour.
• Daily recording of health parameters.
• Perform basic animal husbandry tasks.
• Assist with clinical work, necropsies (post-mortems), and carcass incineration.
• Support game capture operations when required.

Grounds and Infrastructure Maintenance:

• Maintain quarantine grounds, gardens, and the perimeter fence.
• Mow lawns, trim edges, and remove vegetation from fences.
• Remove waste and foreign objects from the premises.
• Daily inspection of electric fences to ensure proper functioning.
• Carrying of implements, equipment, and materials during operations.

You will work under supervision while being expected to show initiative, attention to detail, and a strong sense of responsibility, especially when handling sensitive animal health environments.

Requirements for the General Worker Role

Minimum Requirements:

• ABET or Basic Education (Grade 8 – 10 or equivalent).
• Ability to work extended hours, including weekends and public holidays when required.

Recommended:

• Previous experience working with wild and large animals (highly advantageous).
• Job-related knowledge: Public Service Regulations, Procurement procedures, PFMA, planning and organising, cultural diversity awareness, health and safety principles.
• Job-related skills: Good communication, planning, interpersonal relations, problem-solving, analytical thinking, listening skills, and interpretation abilities.

Physical fitness is essential as the role involves manual labour, standing for long periods, and working in outdoor conditions that can include heat, dust, and exposure to wildlife environments.

What the Department Offers

• Annual salary of R144 024 (Level 02) with annual notches and inflation adjustments.
• 13th cheque (service bonus).
• Medical aid subsidy.
• Pension fund with employer contributions.
• Generous leave entitlements (annual, sick, and family responsibility leave).
• Opportunities for on-the-job training and further development.
• Structured public service environment with clear policies.
• Contribution to meaningful work in animal health and conservation.

How to Apply for This General Worker Vacancy

Applications can be submitted in two ways:

• Hand delivery during office hours: 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002.
• Email: GWrecruit26@nda.gov.za

Please attach:

• Completed Z83 application form (latest version).
• Updated CV.
• Certified copies of ID and qualifications.

Enquiries: Dr Linmarie de Klerk-Lorist Tel No: (013) 735 9082

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The department reserves the right not to make an appointment. Late applications will not be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is previous animal experience compulsory? No, it is recommended but not compulsory. Candidates with the right attitude and willingness to learn will be considered.

Where exactly is the position based? Skukuza in Mpumalanga, in/near Kruger National Park.

Does the job involve working with dangerous animals? You will support operations involving wild and large animals under strict safety protocols and supervision.

Are these permanent posts? Yes, subject to successful completion of the probation period.

What working hours can I expect? Core hours plus extended hours as operationally required, including possible weekends.

Who is encouraged to apply under EE targets? Coloured, Indian, and White Males; African, Coloured, and White Females; and Persons with Disabilities.

Keywords for Job Seekers

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