Imagine gaining hands-on experience in preserving South Africa’s history while earning a stipend through a government program. The NFVF National Archives Digitisation Project under PESP Phase 6 offers over 100 jobs for unemployed youth in 2026. This initiative by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) lets you work at the National Archives in Pretoria.
Programme Overview
The NFVF National Archives Digitisation Project is part of the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP Phase 6). It focuses on digitizing, preserving, and managing national archives. Participants help protect historical and cultural records in a professional setting.
You will gain real workplace skills in a government office. The program runs at the National Archives and Records Service of South Africa (NARSSA) in Pretoria, Gauteng. Applications close on 08 April 2026, so start preparing now.
Available Positions
The project has more than 100 spots across over 20 roles. Positions range from entry-level to skilled jobs. Here is a breakdown by category.
Archivist Roles
These jobs need a diploma or degree in Archival Studies or a related field.
- Archivist: Arrangement and Description (15 posts): You will organize and describe archive materials. This helps make records easy to find and use.
- Archivist: Outreach and Publications (2 posts): Work on sharing archives with the public through events and printed materials.
- Archivist: Oral History (2 posts): Record and preserve personal stories from South Africa’s past.
Assistant Archivist Roles
Most require Grade 12 or a relevant qualification.
- Assistant Archivist: Reading Room: Help visitors access materials safely.
- Assistant Archivist: Cartographic Material: Handle maps and drawings from history.
- Assistant Archivist: Strong Room Registers: Track sensitive documents in secure storage.
- Sensitive Records Assistant Archivist: Manage confidential files with care.
Audio-Visual Preservation Roles
A diploma or degree in Film, Engineering, Audio Production, or related fields is needed.
- Film & Video Preservation Assistants: Clean and store old films and videos.
- Sound Preservation Assistants: Protect audio recordings from damage.
- Legal Deposit Audio-Visual Assistants: Process media submitted by law for archiving.
Administration and Records Roles
Diploma or degree in Public Administration or related field required.
- Administration Officer: Handle daily office tasks and support the team.
- Records Management Officer: Organize files for long-term storage.
- Sensitive Records Admin Officer: Administer access to private documents.
IT and Systems Roles
Diploma or degree in Information Technology needed. Systems Administrator requires MCSE certification.
- Systems Administrator: Maintain computers and networks for digitization.
- IT Support Officer: Fix tech issues and help with software.
Entry-Level Opportunities
Open to those with Grade 10 or Grade 12.
- Scanner Operator: Scan documents to create digital copies.
- Archive Assistant Housekeeping: Keep storage areas clean and organized.
- Conservation Assistant: Assist in repairing damaged items.
Driver-Based Role
- Principal Auxiliary Officer: Drive and transport archive materials. Needs Grade 12, valid Code 10 driver’s licence, and PDP.
Technical Support Role
- Maintenance Officer: Fix building issues. Requires qualification in the built environment.
Minimum Requirements
To apply, you must meet these basics:
- South African citizen.
- Unemployed.
- 35 years old or younger.
- Match the specific needs of the role you choose.
Check each position for extra qualifications like diplomas or licences.
Required Documents
Prepare these for your application:
- Updated CV.
- Certified copy of ID.
- Certified copies of qualifications.
- Certified driver’s licence if the job needs it.
Send complete sets only. Incomplete applications get rejected.
Screening Process
Shortlisted candidates face checks:
- Verify citizenship.
- Run criminal background checks.
- Confirm qualifications.
This ensures fairness and security.
Important Notes
Past PESP participants should not apply. You will hear back within 30 days of 08 April 2026. No response means unsuccessful.
How to Apply
Email your documents to [email protected]. Use reference: RECR/PESP 6/03/26. Submit before the deadline. Good luck in preserving South Africa’s heritage.