Chief Engineer Grade A

In brief

**Overview** This position is for a Chief Engineer Grade A (Ref No: 301026/03) within the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), specifically in the Water and Sanitation Services Management branch for the Western Cape Provincial Operations. The role is based in Bellville. The Chief Engineer will be responsible for managing technical services and support related to water and sanitation projects, providing technical guidance, and ensuring strategic planning and implementation within the sector. The salary for this position is an all-inclusive OSD package ranging from R1,317,108 to R1,504,797 per annum, with the final offer based on years of experience, potentially higher than the minimum notch depending on Public Service Regulation 2016 provisions and current salary advice. **What you will do** Key responsibilities for this role include: * Managing technical services and support in conjunction with Engineers, Technologists, Technicians, and associates across field, workshop, and technical office activities. * Providing support in the analysis and project management of water and sanitation services projects. * Offering technical support to the broader water and sanitation sector. * Conducting strategic analysis of Water Services themes and topics, developing related business perspectives with recommendations. * Engaging and liaising with all stakeholders and water and sanitation sector players regarding project planning and implementation. * Supporting Water Services Authorities (WSAs) in implementing Planning and implementation frameworks and methodologies, as well as monitoring and reporting on their adherence. * Identifying, prioritizing, and initiating projects, including associated financial management to structure required budgets. * Coordinating planning to ensure integrated management of water and sanitation projects across all spheres of government (Water Boards, WSAs, and other Water Service Providers) to improve services and infrastructure reliability. * Investigating, assessing, monitoring, and reporting on all aspects of Water and Sanitation Services delivery. * Ensuring data, information, reports, and analysis results are packaged and accessible via the Water Services Knowledge System and National Integrated Water Information System. * Liaising with and maintaining data sharing and information partnerships with key sector role-players such as Statistics South Africa, National Treasury, Cooperative Governance, and the Office of the Presidency. * Ensuring quality assurance of technical designs with specifications and authorizing/recommending approval by relevant authorities. * Monitoring and ensuring projects are implemented according to prescribed norms and standards, and evaluating water and sanitation services delivery projects. * Providing guidance to the water sector on technical and engineering aspects of operations and maintenance of water and sanitation services infrastructure. * Supporting and guiding on All Town Reconciliation Studies, implementation of Water Conservation and Water Demand Management (WCWDM), Bulk Water and Sanitation Master Planning, and Disaster Management. * Engaging in continuous professional development and research/literature studies on technical engineering technology. * Allocating, controlling, and monitoring expenditure according to budget to ensure efficient cash flow management. * Managing the development, motivation, and utilization of human resources to ensure a competent knowledge base for engineering services. * Managing subordinates' key performance areas by setting and monitoring performance standards and taking corrective actions. **Requirements (from the original advert)** * An Engineering degree (B Eng/ BSc (Eng) or relevant qualification. * Six (6) years’ post qualification experience. * Compulsory registration with Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Professional Engineer. * Disclosure of a valid unexpired driver's license. * Extensive experience in water and sanitation services planning and implementation, including feasibility studies and designs. * Knowledge of programme, project, and financial management. * Ability to effectively liaise with a range of sector role players. * Knowledge of the water sector and relevant legislation (including but not limited to, the Water Services Act No. 108 of 1997, National Water Act No. 36 of 1998 as well as the National Environmental Management Act No. 107 of 1998) among others. * Understanding of Engineering, legal, and operational compliance. * Engineering operational communication skills. * Process knowledge and skills. * Maintenance skills and knowledge. * Mobile equipment operating skills. * Engineering design and analysis knowledge. * Experience in research and development. * Proficiency in computer-aided engineering applications. * Ability to create a high-performance culture. * Technical consulting skills. * Strong engineering and professional judgment. * Strategic capability and leadership. * Problem solving and analysis skills. * Decision making abilities. * Team leadership and creativity. * Financial management skills. * Customer focus and responsiveness. * Communication skills. * Computer skills. * People management skills. * Planning and organizing abilities. * Conflict management skills. * Negotiation skills. * Change management skills. **Who should apply** This role is ideal for a highly experienced and professionally registered Chief Engineer with a robust background in water and sanitation services. The suitable candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of relevant legislation, project and financial management, and have demonstrated strategic leadership and analytical problem-solving capabilities. They should be adept at stakeholder engagement, providing technical guidance, and managing both projects and human resources effectively within a governmental water sector context. **Deadline** Not specified **Reference** Original posting: https://www.govpage.co.za/vacancies/department-of-water-and-sanitation-dws-vacancies-dpsa-circular-37-of-2026#spani-ref-301026-03 Source: govpage

Summary drafted with AI assistance from the original advert. The advert itself is the authority — how we use AI.

At a glance

• Project management

Extracted automatically from the advert; confirm requirements on the original listing.

Job description

Before you apply

• Confirm the requirements and closing date on the original listing (govpage). SPANi lists vacancies from other sites and may not reflect last-minute changes.
• Legitimate employers do not charge application, registration or training fees.
• Don't send your ID or bank details before you have confirmed the employer is real.

How to spot a job scam

Before you apply

• Read the full advert and confirm you meet the minimum requirements before applying.
• Tailor your CV headline and most recent experience to the job title and key skills.
• Note the closing date and reference number, and keep a copy of what you submit.
• Apply only through the employer or job board link — never pay to apply.