Office of the Chief Justice Opens Usher Messenger Vacancy for Grade 10 Applicants
The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) is inviting suitably qualified candidates to apply for the Usher Messenger position at the Limpopo Division of the High Court in Thohoyandou.
This permanent government position offers a salary ranging from R170,226 to R200,523 per annum (Level 3) and presents an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to build a career within South Africa’s justice system.
Applicants must possess Grade 10 or ABET Level 3, while relevant work experience is required. A valid driver’s licence will be considered an added advantage.
Applications close on 7 August 2026.
Vacancy Overview
| Job Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Employer | Office of the Chief Justice |
| Position | Usher Messenger |
| Reference Number | 2026/87/OCJ |
| Job Level | Level 03 |
| Salary | R170,226 – R200,523 per annum |
| Location | Limpopo Division of the High Court, Thohoyandou |
| Minimum Qualification | Grade 10 or ABET Level 3 |
| Experience | Relevant experience required |
| Closing Date | 7 August 2026 |
About the Office of the Chief Justice
The Office of the Chief Justice is responsible for providing administrative and operational support to South Africa’s superior courts. The department plays an essential role in ensuring that court proceedings run efficiently while supporting judicial officers and maintaining the independence of the judiciary.
Employees contribute to delivering fair, effective, and accessible justice services throughout the country.
About the Position
The Usher Messenger plays an important role in supporting judges, court officials, and daily courtroom operations.
The successful candidate will help maintain order during court proceedings, manage court documentation, prepare courtrooms, and provide administrative support that contributes to the efficient functioning of the High Court.
This position requires professionalism, excellent organisational skills, and the ability to work effectively in a formal legal environment.
Key Responsibilities
Successful applicants will be responsible for:
- Providing administrative support to Judges and courtrooms.
- Escorting Judges to and from courtrooms.
- Attending to Judges’ chambers when required.
- Maintaining order and silence during court proceedings.
- Preparing courtrooms before hearings begin.
- Checking the accuracy of motion court rolls.
- Making copies and distributing court documents.
- Maintaining courtroom records.
- Organising criminal and civil case files.
- Reporting missing court files to Judges.
- Filing and archiving court documents.
- Assisting with courtroom scheduling.
- Coordinating courtroom allocations.
- Collecting and distributing court files.
- Safeguarding court records.
- Circulating court rolls to relevant stakeholders.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 10 or ABET Level 3, recognised by SAQA.
- Relevant work experience.
- A valid driver’s licence will be an added advantage.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a pre-entry practical assessment to evaluate their technical and generic competencies.
Knowledge and Competencies
Applicants should demonstrate knowledge of:
- Clerical duties and administrative practices.
- Office administration.
- Microsoft Office applications.
- Data capturing.
- Public Service legislative framework.
- Court administration procedures.
- Records management.
Required Skills
The successful candidate should possess:
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Computer literacy.
- Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint skills.
- Report writing ability.
- Problem-solving skills.
- Public relations skills.
- Planning and organisational skills.
- Monitoring and analytical skills.
- Typing skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Professional conduct.
Why Apply?
Working for the Office of the Chief Justice provides an opportunity to contribute to South Africa’s judicial system while gaining valuable experience within the public service.
Employees benefit from exposure to court administration, legal processes, and professional government operations while working alongside judges, legal practitioners, and court officials.
This role is ideal for individuals seeking long-term career growth in government administration and court services.
Career Opportunities
Experience gained in this role may lead to future opportunities such as:
- Court Administration Clerk.
- Court Assistant.
- Administrative Clerk.
- Records Officer.
- Office Administrator.
- Registry Clerk.
- Legal Administration Officer.
- Judicial Support Officer.
- Senior Court Administration positions.
- Other public service administration roles.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit:
- A completed New Z83 Application Form.
- A recent comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Contactable referees, including telephone numbers and email addresses.
Only shortlisted candidates will be requested to submit certified copies of qualifications and other supporting documents where applicable.
How to Apply
Applicants should quote Reference Number: 2026/87/OCJ when submitting their application.
Email Applications
Send your application to:
2026/87/OCJ@judiciary.org.za
Limpopo Applications
Applications may also be submitted to:
Provincial Head
Office of the Chief Justice Service Centre
Limpopo
Private Bag X9693
Polokwane
0700
Or hand deliver to:
High Court of South Africa: Limpopo Division
36 Biccard & Bodenstein Street
Polokwane
0699
Ensure your application includes:
- Completed New Z83 Form.
- Comprehensive CV.
- Correct reference number.
Application Closing Date
7 August 2026
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Enquiries
Technical Enquiries
Mr B.M. Tjiane
Tel: (015) 495 1444
Human Resources Enquiries
Ms E.M. Ramaphakela
Tel: (015) 495 1744
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualification is required?
Applicants must have Grade 10 or ABET Level 3, recognised by SAQA.
Is previous work experience required?
Yes. Relevant work experience is required.
What salary is offered?
The position offers a salary ranging from R170,226 to R200,523 per annum (Level 03).
Is a driver’s licence compulsory?
No. However, a valid driver’s licence will serve as an added advantage.
Is the New Z83 form required?
Yes. Every application must include a completed New Z83 Application Form together with a comprehensive CV.
Will shortlisted candidates be assessed?
Yes. Shortlisted applicants will complete a practical assessment to determine their suitability for the position.
Why This Vacancy Is Worth Considering
The Office of the Chief Justice offers stable employment within South Africa’s public service while providing employees with the opportunity to contribute to the efficient operation of the country’s courts. As an Usher Messenger, you will play an important role in supporting judges, maintaining courtroom procedures, and ensuring the smooth management of court records and administrative processes.
For candidates with Grade 10 or ABET Level 3 and relevant experience, this vacancy presents an excellent opportunity to establish a long-term career in the justice sector.
Editorial Policy
This article has been independently prepared using information contained in the official Office of the Chief Justice vacancy advertisement. It is intended to provide a clear summary for prospective applicants. Candidates should verify all eligibility requirements, application procedures, and supporting document requirements by consulting the official vacancy circular before applying.
Sources and References
- Office of the Chief Justice
- Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA)
- South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
Disclaimer: This article is an independent editorial summary and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Office of the Chief Justice. Vacancy requirements, salary information, recruitment procedures, and closing dates may change without notice. Applicants should always consult the official vacancy advertisement before submitting their application.
