OFO No: 542201

What is a Special Forces Manager?

A Special Forces Manager is a highly trained and qualified member of the SANDF. 

They are responsible for the management of the special forces operations which includes training, preparation and monitoring military operations.

What does a Special Forces Manager do?

• acts as a ‘warrior / diplomat’ during peace keeping operations
• assess the admin, finance and logistics of military operations, especially with the special forces
• specialises in combat skills
• collects info and data relating to military operations
• makes sure unit is always ready for combat
• monitors use and maintenance of assets (vehicles, weapons, buildings etc)

Are you … ?

• a South African citizen?
• patriotic?
• a team player?
• fit and healthy?
• disciplined?
• logical thinker?
• cool under pressure?

How do I become a Special Forces Manager?

• Must be South African
• Must be 18 to 22 years old (currently completing matric or completed matric)
• Must be 26 or younger (graduate with diploma or degree)
• Must not be area bound (happy to move around SA)
• Must have a clean criminal record
• Must be preferably single
• Must be fit and healthy (pass SADF fitness requirement test)

The SA Army’s way of recruiting is through The Military Skills Development Systems (MSDS).

It’s a 2 year contract, voluntary service system with the long-term aim of building the SADF’s capabilities.

During the 2 years you will receive:

• 1st year – military and functional training

• 2nd year – deployed to develop use your training and develop your skills

• At the end of your second year you can decide if you want to continue as a volunteer or join the SADF on a permanent basis. The SADF will only recruit permanent members if you prove yourself.

There are various groups of applicants:

PATH 1

Applicants with Matric / Grade 12

• Applicants will be chosen on educational performance, participation in sport and community involvement
• After training, the SADF will then consider you for specialisations.

PATH 2

Applicants with Matric / Grade 12 with VERY HIGH MARKS + exemption

• Training that will focus on developing your leadership potential during the second year of deployment
• After training, you may be selected for the Core Service System (CSS) studies at the Military Academy. Only candidates with Grade 12 exemption can be considered for studies at the Military Academy.

PATH 3

Applicants with a recognised 3 year diploma or degree

• It will depend on our qualification at the time and what the SADF requires. These applicants will be earmarked for leadership development and or non-leader group training

PATH 4

• Bachelor of Military Science

• University of Stellenbosch

PATH 5

• Bachelor of Military Science
• Honours in Military Science

PATH 6

• Bachelor of Military Science
• Honours in Military Science
• Masters in Military Science (part time while working for the SANDF)

• Applications usually take place between 1 Jan and 28 February: CLICK HERE

• It’s up to you to double-check for the closing date.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:   Fire Fighter … or … Explosives Expert

Is becoming a Special Forces Manager the right career choice for me?