The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) is recruiting skilled and visionary professionals to fill key permanent and fixed-term positions. Based in Pretoria, these roles span research innovation, ICT leadership, knowledge management, and strategic operations. If you’re passionate about making a difference through policy-oriented research and organisational transformation, now is the time to apply.
Vacancy Overview
| Employer | Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) | 
|---|---|
| Closing Dates | 30 May, 1 June, or 15 June 2025 | 
| Location | Pretoria, Gauteng | 
| Work Type | Hybrid (Combination of remote and in-office work) | 
Available Positions
1. Chief Operating Officer
- Reference Number: HSR250508-1
 - Contract Type: Fixed-term (long-term)
 - Minimum Requirements:
- PhD preferred (Master’s with extensive experience acceptable)
 - 10+ years of executive management experience
 - Proven leadership in strategic planning, operations, transformation, and governance
 
 - Duties:
- Lead corporate services: IT, Legal, HR, Communication
 - Manage budgets, performance, and institutional planning
 - Drive digital transformation and organisational change
 
 - Closing Date: 30 May 2025
Apply here 
2. Divisional Executive: Research Development and Science Innovation
- Reference Number: HSR250508-3
 - Contract Type: Fixed-term (5 years)
 - Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Social Sciences or relevant field
 - 15 years senior research experience, 10 years in leadership
 - Strong publication and fundraising track record
 - Experience in STI policy and measurement
 
 - Duties:
- Oversee STI-focused research (including CeSTII and Science in Society)
 - Lead strategic planning, partnerships, and global engagement
 - Manage high-impact research and funding initiatives
 
 - Closing Date: 30 May 2025
Apply here 
3. Manager: Research Records and Knowledge Management
- Reference Number: HSR250512-1
 - Job Type: Permanent
 - Minimum Requirements:
- Honours Degree in Archives or Records Management (NQF 8)
 - 5 years’ experience in records/knowledge management (2 in leadership)
 - NARSSA certification
 - Experience with EDMS and public sector legislation
 
 - Duties:
- Oversee records and knowledge management programmes
 - Implement document control, archiving, and PAIA processes
 - Support research data curation and organisational compliance
 
 - Closing Date: 1 June 2025
Apply here 
4. Enterprise Systems Manager
- Reference Number: HSR250519-1
 - Job Type: Permanent
 - Minimum Requirements:
- Degree in IT (NQF 7)
 - 10 years’ IT experience (5 in software development with PHP, 5 in management)
 - Experience in business application support and enterprise architecture
 
 - Duties:
- Oversee development, cybersecurity, and optimisation of business systems
 - Align enterprise software to strategic objectives
 - Drive digital transformation and manage operational efficiency
 
 - Closing Date: 15 June 2025
Apply here 
How to Apply
- Visit the HSRC eRecruitment portal using the respective link above.
 - Prepare and upload:
- A detailed CV
 - Certified copies of qualifications
 - Cover letter highlighting your suitability for the role
 
 
For application support: mrousseau@hsrc.ac.za