Gauteng Warns of Fake EPWP Job Scam as Health Department Posts Legitimate Vacancies

The Gauteng Provincial Government has raised the alarm over a fake job advert circulating on social media, promising work in roads maintenance under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). At the same time, the Department of Health has listed several real job openings on the official GPG Jobs Portal, all closing on 2 December 2025. Job seekers are urged to stick to trusted sources to avoid falling for scams that prey on those looking for work. With unemployment high in South Africa, these frauds can lead to lost money, stolen personal details, and dashed hopes.

This warning comes as many young people, including recent matriculants, hunt for entry-level roles. Officials stress that genuine opportunities are only shared through official channels, helping protect vulnerable applicants from exploitation.

Details of the Fraudulent EPWP Advert

The scam advert falsely claims to come from the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport. It mentions a “Roads Maintenance Tender (3 years): Contractor – Khulakwande Construction” and invites people to sign up for general work. It targets students and interns but says anyone in the community can apply, promising R140 per day.

The fake post adds that placements will be on roads close to home and that personal info will stay private. But the department says none of this is true – they did not issue the advert and are not running such a recruitment drive.

In a statement on Thursday, the department said: “The public is urged to exercise caution and avoid falling victim to this scam. The department firmly distances itself from this fake recruitment drive and reiterates that no such EPWP opportunities have been advertised by the department.”
They do not know where the misleading advert came from and advise people not to engage with it or share it further. Scams like this often use unofficial websites to trick job seekers into handing over cash for “application fees” or personal data for identity theft.

How to Spot and Avoid Job Scams

Job fraud is a growing problem in South Africa, with crooks using social media to spread false hope. Red flags include promises of easy money, requests for upfront payments, or ads from unverified accounts. Legitimate government jobs never ask for money to apply.

The department suggests verifying any job info by calling their Human Resources Directorate at (011) 355 7521 or the switchboard at (011) 355 7000 during office hours. For real openings, always check the official GPG Jobs Portal at https://jobs.gauteng.gov.za/.

Sticking to trusted sites helps keep your info safe and ensures you apply for genuine roles. If you spot a scam, report it to the police or the department to help stop it from spreading.

Legitimate Job Opportunities in the Department of Health

While steering clear of fakes, job seekers can apply for these real positions listed on the official portal. All are in the Department of Health and close on 2 December 2025. Here’s a breakdown:

• Head Clinical Unit – (Psychiatry) Grade 1/2/3 Academic Level, Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/ Adjunct / Associate/ Full Professor: Package of R2 084 754.00 per annum (all-inclusive). This senior role suits experienced psychiatrists with academic backgrounds.
• Professional Nurse (PNA2) – General: Salaries range from R324 384.00 to R610 662.00 per annum (plus benefits), depending on grade. Ideal for qualified nurses ready to provide general care.
• Staff Nurse (Enrolled Nurse): Pay from R220 614.00 to R382 107.00 per annum (plus benefits) across grades. Entry-level nursing positions for those with basic qualifications.
• Enrolled Nursing Assistant (ENA): Earnings between R174 261.00 and R298 932.00 per annum (plus benefits). Support roles in nursing teams.
• Administration Clerk: R228 321.00 to R268 950.00 per annum (plus benefits). Handles admin tasks in health settings.
• Administration Clerk (Communications): Same package as above. Focuses on communication duties within the department.

These jobs offer stable pay, benefits, and a chance to serve in public health. Applicants should visit the portal for full details, requirements, and how to apply. Remember, applications are free and must go through official channels.

Broader Impact on Job Seekers and the Economy

Scams like this hurt trust in government programmes like EPWP, which aim to create short-term work and skills training for the unemployed. When fakes spread, real opportunities get overshadowed, and people miss out.

In Gauteng, the most populous province, job hunts are tough with high youth unemployment. Initiatives like these health roles help fill critical gaps in services while providing livelihoods. By warning about fraud, the government aims to protect citizens and keep the focus on genuine growth.

If you’ve been hit by a scam, contact authorities right away. Staying alert and using official sites is the best way to find secure work in these challenging times.

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