Judges’ secretary x5 posts at South Africa’s Office of the Chief Justice
The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) has published several employment opportunities in its latest recruitment circular, with applications closing on 7 August 2026. The department is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, youth, and persons with disabilities in line with South Africa’s Employment Equity objectives.
Applicants must submit a new Z83 application form together with a comprehensive CV. Only shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents. Successful candidates will also undergo pre-entry assessments, background verification, and other recruitment checks.
Vacancies Available
1. Law Researcher (Ref: 2026/82/OCJ)
Location: Land Court, Randburg
Salary: R487,197 – R573,897 per year
Applicants must hold an LLB degree (NQF Level 8) and have at least three years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include conducting legal research, supporting judges with legal opinions and case law analysis, preparing legal memoranda, proofreading judgments, and monitoring legislative developments.
2. Law Researcher (Ref: 2026/83/OCJ)
Location: Eastern Cape High Court, Makhanda
Salary: R487,197 – R573,897 per year
Candidates require an LLB or equivalent legal qualification and a minimum of three years’ legal research experience. The successful applicant will provide legal research support, prepare legal opinions, assist with drafting judgments, and keep judges informed of new legislation and case law.
3. Senior Court Interpreter (Ref: 2026/84/OCJ)
Location: Eastern Cape High Court, Bhisho
Salary: R338,106 – R398,277 per year
Applicants need a National Diploma in Legal Interpreting or equivalent qualification, or extensive practical court interpreting experience. Duties include interpreting during court proceedings, translating legal documents, and supporting multilingual court operations. Proficiency in English and isiXhosa is required, while additional South African languages are advantageous.
4. Registrar (Ref: 2026/85/OCJ)
Location: Eastern Cape High Court, Mthatha
Salary: R337,563 – R1,155,777 per year (depending on experience)
Applicants must possess an LLB or equivalent legal qualification with at least two years of post-qualification legal experience. The role includes processing court matters, handling default judgments and taxation processes, managing case flow, supervising staff, and ensuring efficient court administration.
5. Administration Clerk: Legal (Ref: 2026/86/OCJ)
Location: Eastern Cape High Court, Gqeberha
Salary: R237,453 – R279,708 per year
This entry-level opportunity requires a Grade 12 certificate, with no prior experience necessary. Successful candidates will provide legal research assistance, compile court statistics, support case flow management, and perform general administrative duties. Experience in a legal environment or an LLB qualification will be an advantage.
6. Usher Messenger (Ref: 2026/87/OCJ)
Location: Limpopo High Court, Thohoyandou
Salary: R170,226 – R200,523 per year
Applicants must have at least Grade 10 or ABET Level 3 with relevant experience. The successful candidate will provide courtroom support, assist judges, manage court files, maintain courtroom order, and perform general administrative duties.
Interested applicants should ensure they meet the minimum requirements and submit their applications before 7 August 2026 using the application procedures outlined by the Office of the Chief Justice.
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