EPWP Verification and Survey of Informal Traders – City of Johannesburg 2025

The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) is one of South Africa’s largest metropolitan municipalities, home to over 6 million residents and a thriving hub of economic activity.

Informal trading forms an essential part of the city’s economy, providing livelihoods for thousands of families while contributing to food security, entrepreneurship, and local commerce.

As part of its commitment to supporting inclusive growth and employment, the City of Johannesburg, through its Department of Economic Development, is offering a valuable opportunity under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

This role focuses on the EPWP Verification and Survey of Informal Traders, aimed at strengthening data collection and providing accurate information about the status of informal traders across the city.

This programme not only supports the city’s ability to manage and empower informal traders but also provides employment, training, and hands-on experience for South African citizens seeking career growth in public service and economic development.

About the Programme: EPWP Verification and Survey of Informal Traders

The EPWP Verification and Survey of Informal Traders opportunity is part of the City of Johannesburg’s broader strategy to build sustainable employment while improving service delivery.

Job Location:

66 Jorissen Street, Jorissen Place, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Contract Type:

Expanded Public Works Programme (Fixed-term placement with stipend support)

Stipend:

R6,000.00 per month (all-inclusive, fixed stipend)

Designation:

EPWP: Verification and Survey of Informal Traders

Primary Function

The main purpose of the EPWP Verification and Survey of Informal Traders role is to support the Informal Trading Unit by:

• Collecting, recording, and verifying data about informal traders operating on the streets and in markets.

• Assisting in surveys that capture the status, challenges, and opportunities within the informal trading sector.

• Ensuring that data is accurate, up-to-date, and useful for planning and policy development.

This function is critical for developing informed strategies that recognize informal trading as a driver of economic participation in Johannesburg.

Key Performance Areas

Interns selected for the EPWP Verification and Survey of Informal Traders programme will be expected to:

• Provide Informal Trading Data Support:

• Collect field data from informal traders in designated areas.

• Capture accurate information about street vendors, market traders, and related businesses.

• Conduct Surveys:

• Assist with structured surveys on informal trader operations.

• Document challenges faced by traders (such as access to infrastructure, permits, or support services).

• Support the Informal Trading Unit:

• Organize collected data into usable formats for reporting.

• Provide field insights that help the unit better understand trader dynamics across Johannesburg.

By completing these tasks, participants will contribute to improving how informal trading is managed and supported within the city.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify for the EPWP Verification and Survey of Informal Traders, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Requirement:

• Minimum of Grade 10 or equivalent qualification.

• Citizenship:

• Must be a South African citizen.

• Residency:

• Must reside within the jurisdiction of the City of Johannesburg.

• Encouraged Applications:

• Persons with Disabilities (PWD) are strongly encouraged to apply (proof of disability must be submitted).

• Assessment:

• Applicants must be prepared to undergo a computer-based assessment.

Leading Competencies

• Ability to read and write in English.

• Basic communication skills for engaging with traders and community members.

• Commitment to accurate and ethical data collection.

Core Competencies

• Knowledge of informal trading practices and environments.

• Understanding of Local Government structures.

• Familiarity with Public Administration Legislation.

These competencies will be developed further during the programme, making the EPWP: Verification and Survey of Informal Traders both a training and employment opportunity.

Employment Equity

The City of Johannesburg applies the principles of Employment Equity in line with national legislation. Preference will be given to:
• Designated groups including women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

• Previously disadvantaged individuals to promote equitable representation.

Why This Opportunity Matters

The EPWP Verification and Survey of Informal Traders is not just about short-term employment. It creates long-lasting benefits for participants and the broader community:

• Skill Development:

• Gain experience in fieldwork, survey administration, and basic data capturing.

• Exposure to Public Administration:

• Learn how municipalities manage economic development and informal trading.

• Community Impact:

• Contribute to shaping programmes that directly support thousands of informal traders in Johannesburg.

• Stepping Stone for Career Growth:

• Build experience that may lead to future opportunities in government, research, community development, or administration.

Important Dates

• Closing Date: Monday, 01 September 2025

• Response Window: If you do not receive feedback within six (6) weeks after the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.

Risk Checks

By applying for the EPWP Verification and Survey of Informal Traders, applicants consent to risk checks as part of the recruitment process. These include:
• Credit Record verification

• CV validation

• Employment record checks

• Criminal background check

• Identity validation

Enquiries

• Contact Person: Harold Mbowana

• Tel No: 011 021 0191

For enquiries only (no manual submissions will be accepted).

Conditions of Appointment

• This opportunity is offered as part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

• The stipend is fixed at R6,000.00 per month.

• Appointments will be made in line with the City of Johannesburg’s Employment Equity Plan.

• The municipality reserves the right not to make an appointment.

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted online.

Application Steps:

• Visit the official City of Johannesburg recruitment portal: www.joburg.org.za

• Alternatively, apply directly through this link:
Apply Online – EPWP: Verification and Survey of Informal Traders

• Prepare the following documents before applying:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).

• Certified copy of your ID.

• Certified copies of academic qualifications.

• Proof of residence (to confirm residency within Johannesburg jurisdiction).

• Proof of disability (if applicable).

⚠️ Note: Only online applications will be considered. Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted.

Final Thoughts

The EPWP: Verification and Survey of Informal Traders is a unique chance to be part of Johannesburg’s economic development journey while gaining essential work experience.

Participants will not only earn a stipend but will also contribute meaningfully to one of the city’s most vibrant sectors – informal trading.

If you are passionate about community development, eager to learn, and committed to making a difference, this is your opportunity.

Apply online today and take the first step towards building your future while helping the City of Johannesburg support informal traders across the metro.

• Also check: Metrobus – 135 positions EPWP 

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