National Empowerment Fund (NEF) offers an exciting opportunity to work in one of South Africa’s key institutions driving economic transformation and empowerment. With competitive salaries, diverse roles, and a chance to contribute to meaningful initiatives that uplift marginalized communities, the NEF is an attractive employer for young professionals passionate about economic development, entrepreneurship, and public service.
For individuals seeking entry-level positions , the NEF offers diverse opportunities in areas such as finance, administration, HR, marketing, project management, business development, and compliance . These roles provide young professionals with hands-on experience in economic empowerment, exposure to impactful projects, and opportunities for career growth within a structured and inclusive work environment.
Popular Entry-Level Roles at the NEF
Entry-level positions at the NEF are suited for matriculants, recent graduates, or individuals with minimal experience, offering a chance to contribute to economic transformation in a mission-driven environment. Common entry-level roles include:
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- Administrative Assistant: Supporting operational tasks like scheduling, data entry, and document management.
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- Customer Service Officer: Assisting clients with funding inquiries and application processes.
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- Junior Data Analyst: Collecting and organizing data to support investment decisions.
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- Intern (e.g., Finance, Legal, Marketing): Gaining practical experience in NEF’s core functions through short-term programs.
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- Clerical Support Staff: Handling basic office duties to facilitate fund operations.
The NEF’s focus on empowerment, professional development, and a collaborative workplace makes it an attractive starting point for those interested in finance, economic development, and social impact.
Salaries for Entry-Level Positions at the NEF
Salaries for entry-level roles at the NEF are competitive within South Africa’s public sector and development finance landscape, typically aligned with Salary Levels 5–7 for permanent roles or stipends for internships. Approximate monthly ranges as of March 2025, based on industry norms and available data, include:
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- Administrative Assistant: ZAR 14,000–ZAR 18,000 (ZAR 168,000–ZAR 216,000 annually).
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- Customer Service Officer: ZAR 15,000–ZAR 20,000 (ZAR 180,000–ZAR 240,000 annually).
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- Junior Data Analyst: ZAR 16,000–ZAR 22,000 (ZAR 192,000–ZAR 264,000 annually).
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- Intern: Stipends of ZAR 7,500–ZAR 12,000 (ZAR 90,000–ZAR 144,000 annually for 12 months).
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- Clerical Support Staff: ZAR 12,000–ZAR 16,000 (ZAR 144,000–ZAR 192,000 annually).
These figures are estimates, with permanent staff potentially receiving benefits like medical aid, pension contributions, and performance bonuses, enhancing the overall package. Interns typically receive stipends without additional perks.
Requirements for Entry-Level Jobs at the NEF
The NEF sets accessible requirements to attract motivated candidates, particularly from historically disadvantaged groups, while ensuring alignment with its empowerment mandate. General criteria include:
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- Education:
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- Matric/Grade 12 (National Senior Certificate) for basic roles like Administrative Assistant or Clerical Support Staff, with basic literacy and numeracy skills.
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- For internships or Junior Data Analyst roles: A diploma or degree (e.g., in Finance, Business Administration, Economics) is preferred but not always mandatory for entry-level positions.
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- Education:
- Experience: None typically required; 0–1 year of relevant experience (e.g., customer service, data entry) is a plus.
How to Apply for Entry-Level Jobs at the NEF
Applying for NEF entry-level jobs follows a straightforward online process via their official recruitment portal, with some opportunities advertised through government or job platforms. Here’s how to proceed:
Find Vacancies:
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- Visit www.nefcorp.co.za and navigate to the “Careers” or “Vacancies” section (often linked via news or tender pages).
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- Alternatively, check nefcareers.ci.hr (the NEF’s recruitment platform) for current listings.