Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Bergrivier Municipality is pleased to announce an exciting opportunity for unemployed South African residents to join their team as Learner Firefighters in 2026. These positions are available in both Velddrif and Redelinghuys, offering a chance to embark on a fulfilling career in community safety. The application period concludes on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 3:00 PM. These roles are based within the Bergrivier Municipality in the Western Cape, specifically in Velddrif and Redelinghuys.
Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026 – Bergrivier Municipality (Clarification)
Following a recent clarification (erratum), Bergrivier Municipality has confirmed that both internal and external candidates are welcome to apply for these Learner Firefighter positions within the Directorate of Community Services. The specific vacancies are for:
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
- Learner Firefighter (Velddrif) – Reference: GD199/381/VD
- Learner Firefighter (Redelinghuys) – Reference: GD200/381/RH
While the Municipality’s head office is situated in Piketberg, approximately 90 minutes from Cape Town, its commitment to fostering equal employment opportunities extends throughout its operations. They actively encourage applications from women and individuals with disabilities.
Important Considerations:
It is crucial to note that only applicants residing within the Bergrivier Municipal area (WC013) will be considered for these roles. Furthermore, applications submitted via fax or email will not be accepted.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Overview of the Opportunity:
These positions fall under the Bergrivier Municipality’s Community Services Directorate. As a Learner Firefighter, you will be based in either Velddrif or Redelinghuys, both located in the Western Cape. Each role has a specific reference number: GD199/381/VD for Velddrif and GD200/381/RH for Redelinghuys. Applicants must hold a Grade 12 certificate, although no prior experience is required. A Code C1 driving licence is essential. The annual salary for these entry-level roles is R145,440.00 (T05 – Category 3 Local Authority). The successful candidates are expected to commence duties on March 1, 2026, or as soon as practically possible. Remember, applications must be submitted in hardcopy format only.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Essential Requirements:
To be eligible for these challenging yet rewarding roles, applicants must meet the following essential criteria:
- Possess a Grade 12 certificate.
- Hold a valid Code C1 driving licence.
- Demonstrate proficiency in at least two of the official Western Cape languages (Afrikaans, English, or isiXhosa), encompassing speaking, reading, and writing abilities.
- Be prepared to successfully complete a Departmental Physical Test upon entry and annually thereafter.
- Pass a medical assessment (NFPA 1582) before placement, post-offer, or as a baseline.
- Crucially, candidates must be free from any mental phobias related to: enclosed spaces (claustrophobia), elevated positions (acrophobia), deep areas (bathphobia), water (aquaphobia), blood (hemophobia), darkness (achluophobia), isolation (authophobia), and deceased bodies (necrophobia).
- Be in excellent physical and mental health.
- Show a willingness to work varying shifts and overtime as required.
- Be flexible to work at any Fire Station or facility within the Municipality’s jurisdiction, as directed by the Chief Fire Officer.
- Have no criminal record.
- Successfully complete the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) and the NFPA 1582 Medical Test.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Purpose of the Role:
The primary objective of a Learner Firefighter is to engage in a diverse range of duties, all contributing to the safety and well-being of the community. These responsibilities include actively participating in firefighting and emergency rescue operations, providing basic medical care during incidents, contributing to fire prevention initiatives, and engaging in training activities. Additionally, Learner Firefighters are involved in operating and maintaining fire apparatus and equipment, looking after fire station facilities, and ultimately safeguarding lives and property in accordance with the Fire Brigade Services Act (Act 99 of 1987). It is important to note that all duties during this learning and development phase will be performed under appropriate supervision.
Key Responsibilities Upon Qualification:
Upon successful completion of the required training and attainment of minimum qualifications, incumbents will be responsible for:
- Executing firefighting duties and emergency operations under guidance.
- Preparing for emergency incidents and engaging in protective duties aimed at public education and reducing the severity of fires.
- Ensuring that all equipment and vehicles remain safe, readily available, and operationally prepared.
- Maintaining a work environment that is both safe and hygienic.
- Performing fundamental administrative tasks and record-keeping under supervision.
- Actively participating in the Municipality’s Performance Management and Development System.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Competency Level:
The required competency level for this role is Fire and Rescue Level 1, which aligns with the Municipal Staff Regulations (Government Notice R890) as detailed in Government Gazette 45181, published on September 20, 2021.
Remuneration and Benefits:
Successful candidates will receive an annual salary of R145,440.00, classified under T05 – Category 3 Local Authority. In addition to this, a service bonus equivalent to one month’s salary will be provided where applicable. The position also includes normal municipal benefits, such as a housing allowance for qualifying homeowners, subject to specific conditions.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Application Process:
If you meet the requirements and are eager to apply, application forms can be obtained either from the official municipal website at www.bergmun.org.za or by making a request via telephone at 022 913 6000.
When submitting your application, please ensure you provide the following documents in hardcopy format only:
- A meticulously completed prescribed application form (note: only one post per application form).
- A comprehensive covering letter that includes details for at least two contactable references.
- Certified copies of your qualifications, ID document, and driver’s licence.
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV) not exceeding three pages.
Applications can be submitted in one of the following ways:
- Hand Delivery: Deliver your application to any Bergrivier Municipal Office located within the municipal area, including Aurora, Eendekuil, Redelinghuys, Piketberg, Porterville, and Velddrif.
- Postal Service: Mail your application to: Bergrivier Municipality, P.O. Box 60, Piketberg, 7320.
- Courier Service: Send your application via courier to: 13 Church Street, Piketberg, 7320.
All applications should be addressed to the attention of Mr. DF Verhoog.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Crucial Note:
It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that their application reaches the municipality punctually before the closing date. The municipality cannot be held accountable for any delays or loss in courier or mail deliveries.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Enquiries:
For any further inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. N Williams at Tel: 022 913 6000.
Closing Information:
The definitive closing date for all applications is Friday, January 9, 2026, at 3:00 PM.
Please be advised that late applications will not be considered. Only candidates who are shortlisted for further assessment will be contacted. If you do not receive any feedback within six weeks after the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful. Once again, please remember that applications submitted via fax or any electronic means will not be accepted.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Additional Context and Career Guidance
Becoming a Learner Firefighter within a municipal environment provides a structured pathway into a respected public service profession. Firefighting is not only about emergency response; it also encompasses prevention, education, preparedness, and teamwork. Municipal fire services operate under strict safety, governance, and operational frameworks to ensure the protection of both communities and personnel. This learnership phase is designed to instil discipline, technical competence, and ethical conduct.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Working Environment and Expectations
Learner Firefighters should expect a physically demanding yet rewarding environment. Shifts may include nights, weekends, and public holidays, depending on operational needs. Teamwork, communication, and adherence to command structures are critical. Safety protocols are strictly enforced to minimise risk during training and operations.
Training and Development Pathway
During the learning period, candidates are exposed to structured training aligned with national standards. This includes fire behaviour fundamentals, rescue techniques, basic life support awareness, equipment handling, and incident command principles. Continuous assessments ensure readiness and competence before progression to advanced responsibilities.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Equal Opportunity and Fair Recruitment
Bergrivier Municipality follows transparent recruitment practices aligned with Employment Equity principles. Encouragement of applications from women and persons with disabilities reflects a commitment to inclusive growth and community representation. Selection is merit-based and aligned with statutory requirements.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Preparing a Strong Application
Applicants are advised to ensure all documents are correctly certified and neatly compiled. Attention to detail, clear presentation, and adherence to submission instructions are essential. Late or incomplete applications cannot be considered, regardless of merit.
Municipality Learner Firefighter Vacancies 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the Learner Firefighter positions? Only unemployed South African residents who live within the Bergrivier Municipal area (WC013) and meet all stated requirements may apply.
2. Is prior firefighting experience required? No prior experience is required. These are entry-level learner positions designed to provide foundational training.
3. Can applications be submitted online or via email? No. Applications must be submitted in hardcopy format only. Faxed or emailed applications will not be accepted.
4. What driving licence is required? A valid Code C1 driving licence is essential at the time of application.
5. Are women and people with disabilities encouraged to apply? Yes. Bergrivier Municipality actively encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities.