There are many employment opportunities available in South Africa, but one of the biggest challenges facing job seekers is knowing where to find jobs and how to apply online.
Many people believe that they cannot apply for jobs because they do not have Matric. While Matric is required for many positions, it is not a requirement for every job.
Depending on the employer and the specific vacancy, people without Matric may find opportunities in areas such as general work, cleaning, gardening, warehousing, retail support, kitchen work, agriculture, construction, security and other entry-level positions.
However, applicants must always read the individual vacancy requirements. Never assume that a company accepts applications without Matric simply because it hires general workers.
This guide explains what jobs to look for, how to apply online, how to apply by email when an advert allows it, what documents to prepare and where South Africans in all nine provinces can look for opportunities.
Jobs You Can Look For If You Do Not Have Matric
Not having Matric does not mean that you should stop looking for employment.
Depending on the employer, experience and other requirements, you can search for positions such as:
1. General Worker
General workers may assist with:
- Cleaning
- Loading and unloading
- Moving materials
- Grounds maintenance
- Basic maintenance
- Construction support
- Gardening
- Warehouse duties
- Cleaning equipment and work areas
Some government general-worker vacancies may require ABET or another minimum qualification, while others may have different requirements.
Always read the advert before applying.
2. Cleaner
Cleaning jobs can be available in:
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Shopping centres
- Hotels
- Offices
- Factories
- Airports
- Retail stores
- Government buildings
- Private residences
Requirements vary from employer to employer. Some cleaning vacancies may accept applicants with lower educational qualifications or relevant experience.
3. Warehouse Assistant
Warehouse employers may advertise positions such as:
- Warehouse assistant
- Picker
- Packer
- Loader
- General worker
- Dispatch assistant
- Receiving assistant
- Stock assistant
Some positions require experience, while others are entry-level.
If a forklift licence is required, you should not apply unless you meet that requirement.
4. Shelf Packer
Retail companies sometimes advertise store-support positions involving:
- Packing shelves
- Moving stock
- Checking products
- Keeping the store clean
- Assisting customers
- Receiving deliveries
- Maintaining stock areas
Educational requirements differ between vacancies.
5. Packer
Packing positions can be found in:
- Factories
- Food-processing companies
- Warehouses
- Distribution centres
- Retail distribution
- Manufacturing companies
Some employers may provide training, while others require previous experience.
6. Kitchen Assistant
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Jobseeker Tip: New vacancies are added regularly. Check the relevant category above and read the full job advertisement carefully before applying. Always confirm the requirements, closing date and application method before submitting your application.
Hotels, restaurants, hospitals, schools and catering companies may recruit kitchen assistants.
Duties can include:
- Washing dishes
- Cleaning kitchens
- Preparing basic ingredients
- Assisting chefs
- Packing food
- Cleaning equipment
- Maintaining hygiene standards
7. Gardener
Gardening and grounds-maintenance jobs can be available at:
- Hotels
- Estates
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Municipal facilities
- Private companies
- Shopping centres
- Parks
- Farms
Experience with gardening, landscaping or equipment can be an advantage.
8. Farm Worker
Agricultural employers may recruit workers for:
- Crop farming
- Fruit picking
- Livestock
- General farm work
- Packing
- Irrigation
- Cleaning
- Grounds maintenance
Requirements differ considerably between farms and agricultural companies.
9. Construction General Worker
Construction companies may recruit entry-level workers to assist with:
- Site cleaning
- Loading materials
- Moving equipment
- Digging
- Basic construction support
- Site maintenance
Certain construction positions require specific training, certificates or experience, so applicants should check the advert carefully.
10. Security Officer
Security is another sector where people should investigate opportunities even if they do not have Matric.
However, security jobs commonly have PSiRA registration, security-grade and training requirements.
Do not apply for an armed security position unless you have the required qualifications, firearm competency and other legal requirements stated in the advert.
11. Petrol Attendant
Petrol stations sometimes advertise positions involving:
- Fuel dispensing
- Cleaning
- Customer service
- Forecourt assistance
- Basic stock duties
The requirements vary between employers.
12. Laundry Assistant
Hotels, hospitals, laundries and other businesses may employ laundry assistants to:
- Sort clothing and linen
- Operate laundry equipment
- Fold items
- Pack linen
- Maintain cleanliness
- Assist with deliveries
13. Car Wash and Vehicle Cleaning
Some businesses recruit people for:
- Car washing
- Vehicle cleaning
- Valet services
- General cleaning
- Yard assistance
Experience may be helpful but requirements depend on the employer.
Important: No Matric Does Not Mean No Requirements
This is one of the most important things job seekers need to understand.
A vacancy can say “No Matric Required”, but the employer may still require:
- South African ID
- Minimum age
- Previous experience
- Physical ability
- Driver’s licence
- Security registration
- ABET
- Grade 10
- Grade 11
- Specific training
- Medical fitness
- Computer skills
- A particular certificate
Therefore, always read the Minimum Requirements section before applying.
How to Apply for Jobs Online
Many job seekers struggle with online applications because they have never created an online employment profile.
The process is easier once you understand the basic steps.
Step 1: Get an Email Address
An email address is extremely useful when looking for employment.
You can create a free Gmail account or use another reputable email provider.
Your email address should look professional.
For example:
Avoid using an email address that contains offensive words, unnecessary numbers or jokes.
Step 2: Get a Working Cellphone Number
Employers may use your cellphone number to contact you about:
- Interviews
- Assessments
- Application updates
- Documents
- Employment opportunities
Make sure your phone is switched on and that you regularly check your messages.
Step 3: Prepare Your CV
Even if you do not have Matric, you should still have a CV.
Your CV can include:
- Full name
- Contact number
- Email address
- Location
- Educational background
- Work experience
- Skills
- Training
- Certificates
- References
If you have never worked before, do not lie about experience.
Instead, highlight:
- Volunteer work
- Community work
- Informal work
- Temporary work
- Skills
- Training
- School subjects completed
- Practical experience
What If You Do Not Have a CV?
Some online applications allow you to create a profile without immediately uploading a CV.
However, having a CV is strongly recommended.
Create a simple CV in PDF format and save it on your cellphone.
Give the file a professional name, for example:
Thabo_Mokoena_CV.pdf
This makes it easier to upload when an application system asks for your CV.
Step 4: Search for the Correct Job
Do not search only for:
“Jobs without Matric.”
Also search for:
- General Worker
- Cleaner
- Warehouse Assistant
- Packer
- Picker
- Shelf Packer
- Kitchen Assistant
- Gardener
- Farm Worker
- Construction Worker
- Laundry Assistant
- Driver
- Security Officer
- Petrol Attendant
- Maintenance Assistant
Then check the requirements for every vacancy.
Step 5: Create an Employer Profile
Many companies use recruitment websites where you must register before applying.
For example, Shoprite’s employment platform allows applicants to register, create a password, enter qualifications and experience and complete an assessment if they progress in the recruitment process.
Do not be scared when a website asks you to create an account.
This is normal for online recruitment.
Step 6: Complete Your Profile
When creating an account, you may be asked for:
- Name
- Surname
- ID number
- Cellphone number
- Email address
- Residential address
- Qualifications
- Work experience
- Skills
- CV
Enter your information correctly.
A mistake in your cellphone number or email address could make it difficult for the employer to contact you.
Step 7: Upload Your CV
If the website asks for a CV, upload the correct file.
Check that:
- The CV opens correctly.
- Your name is correct.
- Your cellphone number is correct.
- Your email address is correct.
- The CV is readable.
- The file is in the format requested by the employer.
Step 8: Answer Application Questions
Some companies ask additional questions.
Answer every question honestly.
If you do not have Matric, do not select “Yes” when the question asks whether you have Matric.
Providing false information can cause your application to be rejected.
Step 9: Submit the Application
After completing the application, look for a button such as:
Apply
Submit Application
Submit
Apply Now
Click it only after checking your information.
Some websites save your profile without actually submitting your application, so make sure you complete the final submission.
Step 10: Save Proof of Application
After submitting, take a screenshot of:
- Application confirmation
- Reference number
- Job title
- Application date
Keep this information on your phone.
It can help you track your applications later.
How to Apply for a Job by Email
Some employers allow applicants to apply by email.
If the vacancy specifically provides an email address for applications, follow the instructions in the advert.
Example Email Subject
Application – General Worker – Ref: GW001
What to Attach
Usually:
- CV
- Application form, if required
- Other documents specifically requested in the advert
Do not attach 20 unnecessary documents.
If the employer says CV only, send the CV.
Important Email Rule
Do not send your CV to random email addresses found on Facebook or WhatsApp.
Only use the email address provided in the official vacancy advertisement or official company website.
Government Jobs Without Matric
Government employment opportunities can also include entry-level positions.
The South African Government explains that public-service vacancies are generally advertised through Public Service Vacancy Circulars, and applicants must follow the instructions contained in the specific advertisement.
Some lower-level positions can involve:
- General work
- Cleaning
- Gardening
- Food service
- Maintenance
- Grounds maintenance
- Messenger duties
- Driver positions
- Artisan-support work
But requirements vary.
For example, a recent Gauteng Government job portal listing included Food Service Aid and Store Assistant positions at Salary Level 02.
Limpopo’s provincial e-Recruitment system has also listed General Worker positions at Salary Level 02.
This shows why applicants should regularly check government recruitment portals rather than assuming that every Government job requires Matric.
How to Apply for Government Jobs
Government applications are different from many private-company applications.
The South African Government states that applicants should download and complete the Z83 Application for Employment form, attach a CV and follow the specific instructions in the vacancy advertisement.
Basic Government Application Process
- Find the vacancy.
- Read the requirements carefully.
- Check the reference number.
- Download the correct Z83 form if required.
- Complete the Z83.
- Prepare your CV.
- Attach any other documents specifically requested.
- Follow the submission method in the advert.
- Submit before the closing date.
- Keep proof of submission.
Do not send every government application to the same email address.
Each advertisement provides its own application instructions.
Government Job Websites for All Nine Provinces
Below are useful official websites that job seekers can bookmark.
Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape Provincial Government publishes provincial vacancy circulars and other employment-related information on its official website.
Eastern Cape Provincial Government
Free State
Job seekers in the Free State should monitor the official provincial government website and the national Government Jobs portal for vacancies.
Free State Provincial Government
Gauteng
Gauteng has an official GPG Professional Job Centre where applicants can search provincial government vacancies. The portal includes departments and public entities such as Health, Education, Infrastructure Development and others.
KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal has an official provincial e-Recruitment system where applicants can register, complete their profile, upload a CV and apply online.
KwaZulu-Natal Government e-Recruitment
Limpopo
Limpopo has an official e-Recruitment system where job seekers can browse provincial government vacancies and apply online.
Limpopo Government e-Recruitment
Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga Provincial Government publishes provincial vacancies and links to application systems on its official website.
Mpumalanga Provincial Government Vacancies
Northern Cape
Northern Cape Provincial Government publishes vacancy information and provides instructions for applications, including the use of the Z83 where applicable.
Northern Cape Government Vacancies
North West
North West Provincial Government publishes provincial career opportunities, including Z83 information and vacancy adverts.
Western Cape
Western Cape Government provides an online careers platform where applicants can create a profile, upload their CV and apply for vacancies.
National Government Jobs
You do not have to visit nine different government websites every day.
The official South African Government Government Jobs page provides national and provincial vacancy information and links to the Public Service Vacancy Circular.
You can also visit the official DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular page.
DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular
Private Companies to Monitor
There are also many private employers that recruit across different parts of South Africa.
The important thing is to use their official recruitment websites rather than relying on unofficial Facebook pages or WhatsApp messages.
Shoprite, Checkers and Usave
Shoprite’s official employment platform covers employment opportunities for Shoprite, Checkers and Usave store jobs.
Applicants can register an account, complete their information and enter the recruitment process online.
Shoprite Careers – Shoprite, Checkers & Usave
Look for positions such as:
- General worker
- Packer
- Store assistant
- Cashier
- Shelf-related positions
- Warehouse opportunities
Always check the qualification requirements of the individual vacancy.
PEP
PEP provides an official careers platform with store, distribution and other employment opportunities. Its distribution operations include centres in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and Western Cape.
Clicks Group
Clicks Group has an official careers platform where applicants can search vacancies and create an applicant profile.
Remember that Clicks vacancies have different requirements. Do not assume that every position is suitable for applicants without Matric.
Transnet
Transnet operates major transport and logistics infrastructure in South Africa and has an official careers portal where applicants can create a profile, search jobs and apply.
Search the vacancy database for positions that match your education, experience and skills.
Eskom
Eskom has an official careers portal where applicants can register their CV and view available opportunities. Its careers site also includes youth opportunities, internships and other programmes.
Some Eskom jobs require advanced qualifications, so applicants without Matric should only apply where the vacancy specifically permits them to do so.
Bidvest
Bidvest operates across areas including cleaning and hygiene, security, catering, freight, logistics, facilities management and other services.
This makes Bidvest and its businesses worth monitoring for applicants interested in sectors such as:
- Cleaning
- Security
- Catering
- Logistics
- Facilities services
- Landscaping
- Warehouse-related work
Because Bidvest has many businesses, applicants should use the official company information and the relevant business’s recruitment process rather than sending a CV to an unofficial address.
Job Search Strategy for People Without Matric
If you do not have Matric, do not search for only one type of job.
Use several searches every week.
For example:
Monday: Search for General Worker jobs.
Tuesday: Search for Cleaner jobs.
Wednesday: Search for Warehouse and Packer jobs.
Thursday: Search for Retail and Store Assistant jobs.
Friday: Search for Government vacancies.
Saturday: Check company career websites.
Sunday: Update your CV and follow up on applications.
This creates a routine instead of waiting for someone to send you a job on WhatsApp.
How to Search Google for Jobs
You can also use Google to find official recruitment pages.
Try searches such as:
“General Worker jobs South Africa”
“Cleaner jobs Gauteng”
“Warehouse jobs KwaZulu-Natal”
“Packer jobs Western Cape”
“Government General Worker jobs Limpopo”
“Shoprite careers South Africa”
“PEP careers South Africa”
“Security jobs South Africa official careers”
Then make sure the website you open belongs to the actual employer or a legitimate recruitment platform.
Be Careful With Fake Jobs
Job seekers without Matric are often targeted by scammers because scammers know that unemployed people are desperate for work.
Be suspicious if someone tells you:
“Pay R300 and I will secure the job.”
“Pay registration before we submit your application.”
“Send your banking PIN.”
“Send your OTP.”
“Pay for your appointment.”
“You are guaranteed employment if you pay today.”
A genuine vacancy will explain its application process.
The Department of Employment and Labour also warns that employment services are free to job seekers and states that employment organisations and websites should not make job seekers pay for job opportunities.
Do Not Lie About Your Qualifications
If an application asks:
Do you have Matric?
and you do not have Matric, select No.
Do not change your educational information simply because you think the employer will reject you.
Instead, look for vacancies where your actual qualifications meet the requirements.
Honesty is especially important when applying for Government positions.
What If You Have Grade 10, Grade 11 or ABET?
Make sure you state your highest completed level accurately.
For example:
Education: Grade 10 completed
or
Education: Grade 11 completed
or
Qualification: ABET Level 4
Do not write:
Matric
unless you actually completed Matric.
Some vacancies specifically request Grade 10, Grade 11, ABET or another qualification, which means applicants should search using those terms.
Keep Your Documents Ready
Create a folder on your cellphone called:
JOB APPLICATIONS
Inside the folder, keep:
- CV
- ID copy
- Certificates
- ABET certificate
- Training certificates
- Driver’s licence
- Security certificates
- Proof of address, where required
- Reference details
This will save you time when an employer asks for documents.
Apply for Multiple Jobs
Do not apply for only one job and wait for a response.
If you meet the requirements for five legitimate vacancies, you can apply for all five.
However, make sure each application is completed correctly.
Do not send the same email to 50 companies without changing the subject line or following the specific instructions of each employer.
A Simple Online Application Checklist
Before submitting an application, check:
- I meet the minimum requirements.
- I have entered my correct name.
- My cellphone number is correct.
- My email address is correct.
- My CV is updated.
- My CV is readable.
- I have uploaded the required documents.
- I used the correct reference number.
- I answered the questions honestly.
- I submitted before the closing date.
- I saved proof of my application.
Final Advice
If you do not have Matric, do not give up on your job search.
There are entry-level opportunities in sectors such as cleaning, general work, warehousing, retail support, agriculture, construction, hospitality, gardening, security and other areas.
The key is to understand that every vacancy has its own requirements.
Use official employer websites, Government recruitment portals and legitimate job platforms. Learn how to create an email address, prepare a CV, register on recruitment websites, upload documents and submit an application.
Most importantly, never pay someone simply because they promise you a job.
Your job search should be consistent: search, read the requirements, apply correctly, save your confirmation and continue looking for the next opportunity.
For South African Government vacancies, start with the official Government Jobs portal and DPSA vacancy circular. For private-sector opportunities, check the official career pages of companies such as Shoprite, PEP, Clicks, Transnet, Eskom and Bidvest.
Your lack of Matric does not mean you should stop looking. It means you need to focus on vacancies where your actual qualifications and skills meet the employer’s requirements.