Department of Health Forensic Pathology Officer Vacancies 2026: Apply with Grade 12

Are you looking for a government job in South Africa with a Grade 12 certificate? The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health is inviting applications for two Forensic Pathology Officer Grade 1 positions at the Amajuba Health District Office in Newcastle.

This opportunity is suitable for applicants who have completed Matric and possess a valid Code 8 driver’s licence. Candidates with computer skills and previous mortuary experience may have an added advantage.

The advertised salary is R225,777 per annum, with additional benefits that include a 13th cheque, optional medical aid and a conditional housing subsidy.

If you meet the minimum requirements and are interested in working in forensic pathology services, read the details below carefully and prepare your application before the closing date.

Department of Health Forensic Pathology Officer Vacancies 2026: Job Details

Before applying, familiarise yourself with the important details of the advertised position.

• Employer: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health
• Job Title: Forensic Pathology Officer Grade 1
• Number of Posts: 2
• Reference Number: AMAJ14/2026
• Centre: Amajuba Health District Office
• Location: Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal
• 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
• Application Method: Email or hand delivery

Applicants should confirm the vacancy details against the official departmental advertisement before submitting their applications.

Minimum Requirements for Forensic Pathology Officer Jobs

To be considered for the Forensic Pathology Officer Grade 1 position, applicants must meet the advertised minimum requirements.

1. Grade 12 Certificate

Applicants must have a Grade 12 certificate, also known as Matric. Candidates should ensure that they have the necessary educational qualifications before applying.

2. Valid Code 8 Driver’s Licence

A valid Code 8 driver’s licence is required. Since the position involves transporting deceased persons between death scenes and the medico-legal mortuary, applicants must meet the driver’s licence requirement.

3. Computer Literacy

Computer literacy is listed as an added advantage. Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint may assist applicants with the administrative responsibilities associated with the position.

4. Mortuary Experience

At least six months of experience in mortuary services is listed as an advantage. Applicants with relevant experience may be better prepared for the operational and administrative duties of the role.

Important: Grade 12 and a valid Code 8 driver’s licence are the stated minimum requirements. Computer literacy and mortuary experience are advantages, not additional compulsory requirements according to the supplied vacancy information.

Duties and Responsibilities

Successful applicants will support forensic pathology and medico-legal services. The work includes assisting medical practitioners, maintaining accurate records and helping with the transportation and identification of deceased persons.

1. Assisting with Autopsy Procedures

Forensic Pathology Officers assist with administrative and practical tasks associated with autopsy procedures under the supervision of authorised medical personnel.

Duties may include preparing documentation, recording information as instructed and assisting with the identification of deceased persons through fingerprinting and photography.

Officers may also help collect and document exhibits, samples and specimens under direct supervision. Proper handling and recordkeeping are essential when dealing with evidence.

2. Transporting Deceased Persons

The position includes collecting and transporting deceased persons from death scenes to the medico-legal mortuary.

Responsibilities may include loading and off-loading bodies, completing the necessary documentation and ensuring that admissions to the mortuary follow established procedures.

Applicants should understand that this is a sensitive role involving regular contact with deceased persons and potentially distressing circumstances.

3. Providing Mortuary Support

Successful candidates may assist with various mortuary procedures under supervision.

These responsibilities can include washing, shrouding, weighing and labelling deceased persons after examinations, as well as helping maintain a clean and hygienic working environment.

The role also involves safeguarding personal belongings and ensuring that property is handled according to the applicable procedures.

4. Administrative Duties

Administrative work is another important part of the position.

The successful candidates may be responsible for typing post-mortem documentation, maintaining filing systems, updating databases, preparing monthly statistics and assisting with stock control.

Other duties may include reception and switchboard responsibilities.

5. Communicating with Families and Other Stakeholders

Forensic Pathology Officers may communicate with family members, undertakers, hospitals, municipalities and the South African Police Service regarding identification, burial arrangements, cremations and related matters.

Professional communication, respect, confidentiality and sensitivity are important when dealing with grieving families and other stakeholders.

Knowledge and Skills Required

Applicants should be willing to learn and apply the procedures relevant to forensic pathology services.

Useful knowledge and skills include:

• Computer literacy and accurate recordkeeping.
• Good written and verbal communication.
• Understanding of mortuary administration.
• Knowledge of medico-legal procedures.
• Awareness of infection control and occupational health and safety.
• Understanding of waste management procedures.
• Professional handling of confidential information.
• Ability to follow instructions and work under supervision.
• Respectful communication with families and members of the public.

The role requires professionalism, attention to detail and the ability to work in an environment where sensitive situations may arise.

The Department of Health also encourages applications from people with disabilities, in accordance with the advertised employment provisions.

Documents Required for the Application

Applicants must prepare the required documents before submitting their applications.

1. Completed Z83 Application Form

Complete the latest Z83 application form accurately and ensure that all the required sections are filled in.

Applicants must quote the correct reference number: AMAJ14/2026.

2. Detailed Curriculum Vitae

Prepare an updated CV containing your personal and contact details, educational qualifications, relevant experience and employment history.

Where applicable, include the dates of previous employment and details of duties relevant to the position.

3. Supporting Documents

According to the supplied advertisement, copies of qualifications and other supporting documents are not required at the initial application stage. These may be requested from shortlisted candidates.

Applicants with foreign qualifications must provide a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation certificate. Non-South African citizens and applicants with relevant residence or work permits must provide the required supporting documentation.

Always check the official vacancy advertisement for the complete documentation requirements before applying.

How to Apply for Department of Health Forensic Pathology Officer Vacancies 2026

Applicants can submit their applications by email or hand delivery.

Option 1: Apply by Email

Send your completed Z83 application form and detailed CV to:

Email Address: Lungile.Mbatha3@kznhealth.gov.za

Attention: Human Resource Manager, Amajuba Health District Office

Before sending your application, check that your documents are complete and that you have quoted the correct reference number, AMAJ14/2026.

Use a clear email subject, such as:

Application for Forensic Pathology Officer Grade 1 – AMAJ14/2026

Option 2: Deliver Your Application by Hand

Applicants may alternatively deliver their applications to the applications box at the following address:

Human Resource Manager
Amajuba Health District Office
50 Harding Street, Nedbank Building, First Floor
Newcastle, 2940
KwaZulu-Natal

Ensure that your application reaches the correct office before the closing date.

Enquiries

For further information about the advertised position, contact:

Mr M.J. Mambi
Telephone: 034 312 2706

Download the Z83 Form and Read the Official Advert

Before applying, obtain the latest Z83 form and read the official vacancy advertisement carefully.

• Z83 Application Form: Use the download link provided on the original vacancy page or the relevant official government website.
• Official Job Advertisement: Consult the full departmental advert to confirm the requirements, application procedure and any additional conditions.

Do not submit an application without checking that you meet the minimum requirements.

Closing Date for Forensic Pathology Officer Vacancies

The closing date provided in the supplied vacancy information is 10 November 2026.

Interested applicants should submit their applications before the deadline. Avoid waiting until the last day, as delays in sending or delivering documents could affect your application.

Remember to check the official advertisement for any updates or corrections to the closing date.

Final Thoughts

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health Forensic Pathology Officer Grade 1 vacancies offer an opportunity for suitably qualified job seekers with Grade 12 and a valid Code 8 driver’s licence.

The advertised annual salary is R225,777, and the position involves supporting forensic pathology services, transporting deceased persons, assisting with identification procedures and completing important administrative duties.

If you meet the minimum requirements, prepare your Z83 form and detailed CV, quote reference number AMAJ14/2026 and submit your application using one of the advertised methods.

Closing Date: 10 November 2026.

Share this opportunity with friends, family members and other job seekers who may qualify.

Visit seta-services.co.za for more South African government vacancies, learnerships, internships and other employment opportunities.

Department of Health Forensic Pathology Officer Vacancies 2026

Apply for 2 Department of Health Forensic Pathology Officer Grade 1 vacancies in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. Grade 12 and Code 8 licence required. Salary R225,777 per year. Closing date: 10 November 2026.

Department-of-health-forensic-pathology-officer-vacancies-2026

The article is based on the vacancy details you supplied. Please verify the full official advertisement and application links before publishing, especially the salary, requirements and closing date.