Assistant Director: Policy & Research (Legal Officer)

About the role

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) is recruiting a Legal Officer (ref. LEG-GP09/2026) for its Legal unit in the North West province, reporting to the Head of Department Legal and Provincial Manager. The position carries a salary level of 10, with an all-inclusive package of R605,742 per annum. The role covers complaints handling, litigation and gender-equality policy work.

Key responsibilities

• Handle and investigate complaints lodged by members of the public, and report challenges on complaints handling to the Provincial Manager and the HOD Legal.
• Refer matters to the Equality Court, litigate on behalf of complainants and identify issues on systematic complaints with the HOD Legal.
• Monitor the operation of courts in the province and liaise with courts on matters referred by the CGE.
• Conduct mediation to resolve disputes.
• Draft inputs with a gender perspective on proposed legislation, regulations and prescripts on gender equality.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual reports.
• Build working relationships with internal and external stakeholders and ensure implementation of the Annual Performance Plan.

Required profile

• Matric; B. Proc or LLB degree (LL.M advantageous).
• Admitted as an attorney of the High Court with at least three years' post-admission experience.
• Experience in human rights law and litigation, and extensive knowledge of Equality Courts.
• Sound understanding of gender issues and the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.

Required skills

• Constitutional litigation and court processes, mediation and conciliation (an accredited mediator is an added advantage).
• Legal research and analytical skills.
• Computer literacy, excellent written and verbal communication, and ability to work independently on complaints handling.
• Ability to draft legally sound reports; knowledge of at least one African language.