INTRODUCTION
Office of the Chief Justice is looking for a Principal Court Interpreter to join its team, with the post located in Limpopo Division of The High Court: Thohoyandou.
The advertised package is R413 001 – R486 501 a year (Level 08). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement. This post was published in Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026, issued on 09 October 2026.
| Job title | Principal Court Interpreter |
| Department | Office of the Chief Justice |
| Reference number | 2026/139/OCJ |
| Salary | R413 001 – R486 501 a year (Level 08). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement. |
| Centre / location | Limpopo Division of The High Court: Thohoyandou |
| Province | Limpopo |
| Closing date | 23 October 2026 |
| Circular | PSV Circular 36 of 2026 |
ABOUT THE ROLE
This vacancy forms part of Office of the Chief Justice. It carries the reference number 2026/139/OCJ, and the successful candidate will work from Limpopo Division of The High Court: Thohoyandou.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The successful candidate will be expected to handle the following:
- Provide interpreting services in high profile matters, interpret in complex cases, interpret in criminal, civil, and Labour Court, interpret in small claims court, interpret in disciplinary hearing, interpret in Conciliation and Arbitration, interpret in confession, interpret pre-trial proceedings and consultations.
- Control, supervise and attend to personnel administrative aspects of interpreters, provide mentoring and coaching to junior/ senior interpreters, manage performance agreement contracts, draw a schedule for replacement of Court Interpreters, control leave of Court interpreters and submit Court hour registers, quarterly submit probation reports, monitor subordinates on EHWP, translate Legal documents and exhibits, study and analyse the source documents, conduct necessary research and consult, develop terminology, harvest of terminology, database development, provide terms and their respective meanings in the glossary register, supervise and develop staff, ensure general supervision of employees, allocate duties and perform quality control on the work delivered by officials, manage leave of staff, advise and lead supervisees with regards to all aspects of the work, manage performance, conduct and discipline of employees.
- Make sure that all employees are trained and developed to be able to deliver work of the required standard efficiently and effectively.
- Develop, implement and monitor work systems and processes to ensure efficient and effective functioning, address enquiries and provide advice and guidance on asset allocation and control.
REQUIREMENTS
To be considered, you should meet these requirements:
- Applicants should be holding a National Diploma in Legal Interpreting or equivalent qualification at NQF level six (6) with 360 credits as recognised by SAQA.
- At least two (2) years' experience as a Court Interpreter of which one (1) year should be at supervisory level.
- Language proficiency: English and either Tshivenda, Xitsonga, Sepedi.
- Knowledge of Isi- Zulu/Setswana and a valid driver's license will serve as an added advantage.
- Knowledge and skills: Knowledge of Batho Pele and the OCJ Principles, Court proceedings, Cultural diversity, Knowledge of Policies, Prescripts, and Legislation and Full command of the languages.
- Skilled in communication (oral and written), listening, computer literacy (Ms Word, PowerPoint, Outlook and Internet, etc.), problem solving, interpersonal relations, planning and organising, people skills, intermediate typing and customer service orientation.
HOW TO APPLY
- Download the NEW Z83 form from the DPSA website and complete it in full.
- Prepare a detailed CV with your qualifications, experience and contact details.
- Write the reference number 2026/139/OCJ on your application.
- Submit as instructed: Applications can be sent via email to 2026/139/OCJ@judiciary.org.za
- Make sure your application reaches the department by 23 October 2026.
Enquiries: Technical Related Enquiries: Mr. M.P Netshilulu Tel No: (015) 495 1741 HR Related Enquiries: Ms. E.M Ramaphakela Tel No: (015) 495 1744
Important notes:
- Read the full advert in the circular for the department's specific submission rules.
TIPS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR APPLICATION
- Match your CV to the requirements above. Show the exact qualification, years of experience and skills that are listed.
- Read the whole advert, including the notes section, because each department has its own rules on how to submit.
- Use the NEW Z83 form (effective 01 January 2021), sign and date it, and make sure every section is completed.
- Prepare certified copies of your ID, qualifications and proof of experience. Shortlisted candidates are usually asked for them.
- If this is your first government application, read the DPSA guide on completing Z83 so you do not lose points on a simple form error.
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Source: DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026. Always confirm details with the advertising department. OneCareer is not the employer and never charges for applying to a government post.