16 Staff Nurse Grade 1 Vacancies – Ekurhuleni Health District

The Gauteng Department of Health has opened applications for 16 Staff Nurse Grade 1 posts within the Ekurhuleni Health District, offering permanent public service employment to qualified enrolled nurses. Applications close on 13 February 2026, and the vacancies form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen primary health care services across Gauteng at a time of sustained pressure on clinics and community health facilities.

The posts are aimed at registered Staff Nurses (Enrolled Nurses) with less than ten years’ experience after registration, and are based within the Primary Health Care directorate.

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What has been announced and who it affects

According to the Department of Health, the vacancies target enrolled nurses who are already registered with the South African Nursing Council and are capable of working across shift systems, including nights, weekends, and public holidays. Successful candidates will be appointed at Staff Nurse Grade 1 level, with an annual salary package ranging from R220 614 to R250 500, excluding benefits.

The announcement is significant for nursing professionals in Gauteng, particularly those seeking stable employment in the public sector, as the province continues to address staff shortages in clinics and community health centres.

Where the posts are based

The positions are based in the Ekurhuleni Health District, one of Gauteng’s largest and fastest growing health districts, serving communities across areas such as Tembisa, Katlehong, Vosloorus, Germiston and Benoni. Facilities in the district play a critical role in delivering frontline primary health care services, including maternal health, chronic disease management and community outreach programmes.

Why these posts matter now

Primary health care facilities across Gauteng remain under pressure due to population growth, high patient volumes, and the ongoing burden of chronic illness. Enrolled nurses are a critical part of the healthcare system, supporting professional nurses and ensuring continuity of care at the clinic level.

By filling these posts, the department aims to improve patient flow, strengthen basic nursing services, and ensure compliance with national healthcare standards, according to departmental recruitment notices.

Key details of the Staff Nurse Grade 1 vacancies

• Number of posts: 16
• Employer: Gauteng Department of Health
• Directorate: Primary Health Care
• Location: Ekurhuleni Health District
• Salary: R220 614 – R250 500 per annum, plus benefits
• Closing date: 13 February 2026

Minimum requirements applicants must meet

Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

• A qualification that allows registration with the South African Nursing Council as a Staff Nurse (Enrolled Nurse)
• Current registration with the South African Nursing Council
• Less than ten years’ appropriate experience after registration as an enrolled nurse
• Knowledge of nursing care processes, procedures, and relevant legislation
• Understanding of Batho Pele principles and the Patients’ Rights Charter
• Basic communication, interpersonal, and writing skills
• Willingness to work shifts, including night duty, weekends, and public holidays

People with disabilities are encouraged to apply, and employment equity considerations will be applied in line with departmental policy.

What the role involves

Staff Nurse Grade 1 appointees will provide elementary nursing services under the supervision of professional nurses, in line with the scope of practice defined by the South African Nursing Council. Duties include both clinical and community-facing responsibilities, with a strong emphasis on patient care and support.

Key responsibilities include:

• Measuring, interpreting, and recording patients’ vital signs
• Providing basic health education to patients and community members
• Assisting professional nurses during clinical procedures
• Preparing patients for diagnostic and surgical interventions
• Supporting patients’ nutritional needs
• Engaging with community stakeholders and health partners
• Upholding professional conduct and public service ethics

The department notes that staff nurses are expected to function effectively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team and to maintain high standards of care in often high-pressure environments.

Application process and important notes

Applications must be submitted online only via the Gauteng Professional Job Centre e-recruitment portal. Manual, faxed or emailed applications will not be accepted.

Applicants are required to submit:

• A fully completed new Z83 application form
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae

In line with DPSA Circular 19 of 2022, certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents are not required at the application stage. These will only be requested from shortlisted candidates before interviews.

Candidates will be subjected to personnel suitability checks, including verification of qualifications, identity, employment history, criminal record, and financial standing. The recommended candidate will also undergo medical surveillance in terms of occupational health and safety legislation.

What This Means for Gauteng Residents

For Gauteng residents, particularly those in Ekurhuleni, the filling of these posts is expected to improve service delivery at the clinic and community health centre level. Staff nurses form the backbone of daily patient care, and additional appointments can reduce waiting times, improve patient monitoring, and support preventative healthcare initiatives.

For enrolled nurses living in Gauteng, the vacancies offer an opportunity to enter or progress within the public healthcare system, contributing directly to community health outcomes while securing long-term employment.

How does this fit into Gauteng’s healthcare staffing needs

The Gauteng Department of Health continues to recruit across multiple nursing categories to stabilise staffing levels and improve access to care. Primary health care remains a priority area, particularly as clinics absorb increasing patient numbers and play a greater role in managing chronic conditions outside hospital settings.

Recruitment at the Staff Nurse Grade 1 level also supports professional development pathways within nursing, allowing enrolled nurses to gain experience that may support future progression.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these permanent posts?
Yes. These are permanent Staff Nurse Grade 1 posts within the Gauteng Department of Health.

Who can apply?
Only enrolled nurses who are registered with the South African Nursing Council and meet the experience requirements.

Where are the posts based?
All posts are within the Ekurhuleni Health District in Gauteng.

Do I need to submit certified documents when applying?
No. Only a completed Z83 form and a detailed CV are required at the application stage.

When do applications close?
Applications close on 13 February 2026.

What happens next

After the closing date, the department will begin its shortlisting and verification process. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Applicants who do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.

As Gauteng continues to prioritise primary health care strengthening, these appointments form part of broader efforts to stabilise frontline services and support communities across the province.