Introduction
Are you looking for a new job in Durban? If so, you’re in luck! This city is filled with opportunity, and there are plenty of awesome jobs to be had.
Durban is a major city in South Africa, and it’s the capital of the province of KwaZulu-Natal. It’s the third largest city in the country, and it’s a major tourist destination.
There are plenty of jobs in Durban for those who are willing to look for them. From retail to hospitality to customer service, there are plenty of options for those who are willing to look for them.
If you’re looking for a new job in Durban, here are 17 awesome jobs you didn’t know existed!
Why is a career in Durban so great?
A career in Durban offers an exciting and fulfilling experience thanks to its unique blend of culture and opportunity. Durban is the largest city in the province of KwaZulu-Natal and is renowned for its vibrant wildlife and diverse cultures.
There is a wealth of jobs available in Durban in industries such as engineering, construction, IT, finance, tourism, education, health care, and retail. The city is steadily growing, so there is always demand for workers with the right skills and qualifications.
Additionally, Durban offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive destination for potential workers. Salaries are competitive, and the cost of living is typically lower than in other cities. The city is also home to a wide variety of affordable housing options and great educational opportunities.
Working in Durban also offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of South Africa’s most stunning landscapes and national parks. It’s an ideal setting for people who value work-life balance and the great outdoors.
What are some of the best jobs in Durban?
Durban is a wonderful place to live and work, and the city offers a wide range of job opportunities. Here are 17 of the top jobs in Durban that you may want to consider:
- Web Developer – A web developer is responsible for creating and managing websites. They work with coding languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create visually appealing and functional websites.
- Social Media Manager – A social media manager is responsible for creating and executing a social media strategy. They manage the company’s social media accounts, develop content, and engage with users.
- Graphic Designer – Graphic designers create visual content for marketing purposes. They create logos, brochures, flyers, and other digital material to help promote the company’s products and services.
- Project Manager – Project managers work to ensure that projects are completed on time and within the budget. They oversee the entire project, from the planning stage to the final delivery.
- Civil Engineer – Civil engineers design, construct, and maintain public works and infrastructure. They are involved in projects such as bridges, tunnels, roads, and buildings.
- Software Developer – Software developers create and maintain software applications. They write code and design interfaces to ensure the software is user-friendly and reliable.
- Business Analyst – Business analysts identify and solve problems, evaluate business processes and monitor performance. They also help determine the best solutions to improve efficiency.
1. Hospitality
Hospitality is another great job opportunity in Durban. The tourism sector is one of the major drivers of economic growth in the province and hospitality jobs are in high demand in this sector. Hospitality workers provide a range of services to guests in hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
Hospitality positions include receptionists, housekeeping staff, food service workers, and bartenders. With a qualification in hospitality, you can land a job in one of the many luxury hotels in the city or find yourself working in a range of establishments including restaurants, bars, resorts, and spas.
Apart from the obvious customer service skills, hospitality workers need to have excellent communication and organisational skills. They must also have a passion for customer service and the ability to think on their feet.
Hospitality offers a great opportunity to meet people from different parts of the world and to develop hospitality skills that are in high demand in the tourism industry. Working in hospitality will give you the chance to learn valuable skills and gain meaningful experience that can lead to a successful career.
2. Tourism
Tourism is another booming industry in Durban, as well as around the world. The city is filled with attractions and activities that draw people in from near and far. From surfing and scuba diving to visiting cultural sites and exploring the local wildlife, there are endless opportunities to explore and discover.
Tourism jobs in Durban span a range of industries. From tour guides providing interesting facts and insights, to industry professionals helping to craft experiential tour packages and experiences, the industry offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a full-time job or a part-time gig, you’ll find plenty of opportunities in the tourism industry.
Other popular tourism positions in Durban include adventure sports professionals, travel agents and consultants, beach activity monitors, and museum guides. You’ll also find roles in hospitality and local businesses, such as hotel concierges, theme park attendants, and assistant restaurateurs.
To become part of this thriving industry, individuals need to be passionate about their work, confident in their abilities and dedicated to providing visitors with the best experience possible. Those interested in pursuing tourism will need to familiarise themselves with the arrival and departure processes of international travelers and be knowledgeable about the local travel services and regulations.
3. Business
The city of Durban offers a range of business opportunities that can be explored in a variety of industries. Whether you are looking to join forces with a corporation or launch your own business in Durban, the city makes it easy to launch a career in business.
Some great business professions in Durban include accountants, marketers, data scientists, and business strategists. For those with a more creative mind-set, many find great success in careers in freelance graphic design, video production, content creation, and social media management.
Other popular options for business professionals in Durban include finance, human resources, retail and sales, customer service, and operations management. With digital transformation and the Fourth Industrial Revolution on the rise, professionals with digital skills, such as software developers, web designers, and cybersecurity experts, are also in high demand.
When it comes to becoming successful in the business sector, the key is to build and maintain strong professional networks. Many business startups in Durban rely on the help of their network and mentors to help guide and coach them through their journey. Moreover, the city is a great place to develop and hone business ideas, as it is filled with a dynamic and diverse range of entrepreneurs, professionals, and industry experts.
4. Education
Durban is home to some of the best educational institutions in South Africa. And because of the city’s economic success and growth, many business professionals are keen to pursue degrees in education to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to stay at the top of their game.
Some of the top education jobs in Durban include primary and secondary school instruction, university lecturing, adult education instruction, curriculum development, research, and administration. For those with a scientific or technical background, it may be worth considering a career in educational technology.
With such a bright future for education in Durban, many businesses are also beginning to hire education specialists to help develop and manage their corporate training and development initiatives. For example, many companies are now looking for educational consultants who can provide specialist skills and knowledge.
For those who are thinking of a career in education, it is recommended to research the myriad of opportunities that are available in the city. Durban’s large population of both international and local students, teachers, and professionals, it is an ideal place to start a career in the education field.
5. Healthcare
Durban has a booming healthcare sector with many opportunities for qualified professionals. Many healthcare businesses are looking for experienced and enthusiastic professionals who can provide quality patient care, professional services, and administrative support.
Healthcare professionals include doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and specialists from all areas of medicine. For those who wish to pursue a career in healthcare, many roles are available in the public and private sectors, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Durban has some of the top hospitals in the country, providing good employment opportunities for healthcare professionals.
There are also a range of administrative roles available in the healthcare sector, such as insurance claims processing, billing, and IT support. There is a great demand for healthcare professionals who have excellent IT and administrative skills.
Overall, the healthcare sector in Durban is consistently expanding, and there are many opportunities for those looking to build a successful healthcare career.
6. IT and software development
Durban is home to a thriving IT and software development industry. The city has numerous companies that develop software and applications, as well as IT service providers such as computer repair businesses and software consulting companies.
IT professionals working in Durban have the opportunity to work with some of the most innovative and groundbreaking technology. For those who have a keen eye for detail and are proficient with coding, software developer roles are available in a range of industries, from mobile apps to manufacturing software.
Software engineers and IT professionals have the opportunity to create cutting-edge technology, develop databases, and integrate complex systems. With IT, tech and software development becoming increasingly important across every industry, there are an ever-growing number of exciting roles available in Durban.
Plus, for those who are interested in pursuing a career in tech and software development, there are numerous educational institutions offering accreditation, from coding classes to degree programs. It's exciting to think of the range of opportunities awaiting those interested in pursuing a career in IT and software development in Durban.
7. Sales and marketing
Sales and marketing are another field with top career opportunities in Durban. Companies across all industries are looking for passionate and motivated individuals to join their sales and marketing teams.
In the sales and marketing field, roles range from sales associates or representatives to marketing strategists. Many companies are looking for people to foster relationships with customers, reach out to potential clients and build relationships with long-term customers.
Sales and marketing roles also involve coming up with creative solutions to help promote the company’s products or services, as well as organising events, managing marketing efforts and developing marketing initiatives.
As a sales and marketing professional, you can be involved in devising campaigns, creating content, managing social media activities, and monitoring the effectiveness of marketing campaigns. Furthermore, you can take satisfaction in knowing that you are instrumental in helping your employer achieve their goals.
8. Human Resources
HR roles are some of the most sought-after jobs in Durban. Companies of all sizes need to hire and manage talented professionals and build the best teams in their respective industries.
Human Resource professionals are always in high demand and can look forward to stable and rewarding careers. A large number of companies have started to outsource their human resources and recruitment needs, providing premium human resource services to clients across different industries.
In Durban, companies seek human resource professionals to assist with a wide range of tasks, including performance management, staff selection, recruitment, compensation and benefits, employee conflict resolution, staff training and development, and other general human resource functions.
A career in human resources in Durban can prove to be an attractive option for those who are willing to explore the potential of a career in a fast-growing field with enormous potential.
9. Manufacturing
Manufacturing is one of the most important industries in Durban’s economy. It traditionally provides many jobs in the area and can be found in both the chemical and mechanical industries.
Manufacturing jobs in the city range from production line workers to supervisors and engineers. These positions are often well-paid and can provide career advancement opportunities for those who are looking for a long-term career.
Durban’s manufacturing sector is constantly evolving and many of the companies located in the area are world leaders in their respective industries. It also offers numerous job opportunities to those who are interested in gaining skills or entering a career in the manufacturing industry.
Job seekers should note that manufacturing companies may require specialised skills and qualifications. Applicants should research available job opportunities before applying to manufacturing companies in Durban.
10. Construction
Construction is an important source of employment for Durban. There are numerous opportunities for skilled construction professionals, particularly in the residential sector.
Contractors are actively seeking skilled, qualified workers to help with the ever-increasing demand for the residential sector throughout Durban. Employers in the construction industry are often looking for individuals with specialised experience in plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and painting, in order to ensure the completion of projects.
Skilled professionals in the construction industry also have access to higher salaries, with salaries in Durban typically falling between R8,000 – R12,000 p/m for entry-level positions. There are also opportunities to undertake leading or supervisory roles, where higher salaries and better benefits are expected.
Job seekers should note that construction work can be dangerous and requires the use of safety equipment. Applicants should read the safety requirements for each job before applying.
11. Trades
Trades are another excellent source of jobs in Durban. The city has a growing number of factories, industrial parks, and other businesses that require the skills of skilled tradespeople. This includes plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and mechanics, among others.
Tradespeople in Durban are typically offered salaries ranging between R8,000 - R12,000 p/m for entry-level positions. There are also opportunities to move up in your field and take on leading or supervisory roles.
When searching for a job in Durban, it is important to keep safety in mind. Many jobs in the trades involve the use of potentially dangerous tools and equipment, and workers should practice caution and read all safety requirements before undertaking a job.
12. Accounting and Finance
Accounting and finance are two of the most important jobs in Durban and across South Africa. From small-scale businesses to large corporations and banks, jobs in accounting and finance are always in high demand in Durban.
Accounting and finance positions require candidates to have a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance and/or Professional Accounting Qualification, such as a Chartered Accountant (CA). Positions often come with excellent remuneration packages, including competitive salaries and potential bonuses.
With the rise of fintech and other financial technology companies, there are also opportunities for those with no formal qualifications or experience to break into the industry through internship or apprenticeship programs.
13. Retail
Retail is one of the most common job sectors in Durban and across the country. From large stable companies to boutique and independent businesses, there are numerous ways and places to work in retail in Durban.
Retail jobs don’t necessarily require formal qualifications or experience. However, there are certain skills and qualities that will help you stand out in the job market. Skills such as customer service, communication and interpersonal skills, organisation and planning, numeracy, sales and marketing, and creativity.
Retail workers usually must interact with customers, manage inventory and stock, set up product displays to maximise customer engagement, and complete administrative tasks like cashing up and closing, customer data processing, and end-of-day reporting.
Retail roles in Durban include anything from cashiers and store and sales assistants, to store management and visual merchandising specialists. In many cases, store management positions come with attractive salaries and management bonuses.
14. Arts and Entertainment
Arts and entertainment are incredibly exciting sectors to work in! Whether you’re an up-and-coming musician or want to get your feet wet in the theatre and performance arts, Durban is the place to be.
Roles in the arts and entertainment fields range from directing and producing movies to writing for film and TV, acting, performing, stagehand, audio engineering, creative writing, live mixing, mixing and mastering audio, and more. If you’re already living in Durban, you’ll find that there are plenty of resources to work in the arts and entertainment sectors.
In addition to a great network of talent, Durban has some of South Africa’s best film production companies and multi-media houses. There are also several art galleries and performing arts venues that are always looking for creative, dynamic, and talented people to join their teams.
The city is home to two world-class performance venues that can be booked for private events or shows: The Playhouse Company and the Playhouse Opera. These venues provide the opportunity to earn a living in arts and entertainment, as well as to hone your craft and perfect your skillset.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, have an eye for the art of photography, or have the ability to move audiences through your performance, Durban is the place for you to create, work and perform.
15. Science and research
Science and research are two areas of high demand in Durban. The city hosts two universities, the University of KwaZulu-Natal and the Durban University of Technology, both of which have programs and research facilities in a wide range of scientific disciplines.
Roles in this sector can range from laboratory-based research and development to engineering, industrial design, data analysis and computer science. The universities also offer a range of research support, from statisticians, project management and research writers to data analysts and software developers.
The city is also home to the South African National Biodiversity Institute, which conducts research in a range of areas, from monitoring and restoration of health and safety to biodiversity conservation.
The Health Department of KwaZulu-Natal is a further example of a research-intensive organisation, as it carries out research in clinical and public health areas.
Organisations such as the KZN Science Centre and the Abels Project (a national centre of excellence in biomedical research) provide professionals with opportunities to develop their knowledge and skills in science, health, and technology.
Durban is also home to the Centre for Fuel Cell Technology, an R&D entity focusing on the development, manufacture and testing of fuel cells and related technologies, providing a unique opportunity for students and professionals with an interest in this emerging field.
16. Environment
Durban is home to a range of environmental-related roles that would appeal to professionals with an interest in sustainability, conservation, renewable energy and marine biology.
The city is an ideal place to gain experience in the field of environmental management. There are roles available in ecological and environmental impact assessment, environmental awareness, waste management and remediation.
Organisations such as the KwaZulu-Natal Nature Conservation Board, the KwaZulu-Natal Parks Board and the Wilderness Foundation of South Africa all operate from Durban, providing roles in planning, research, monitoring, communication and eco-tourism.
There are also positions in the renewable energy sector such as solar, wind and biomass. Lastly, the city is a hub for coastal and marine research, providing roles in marine biology, oceanography and associated fields.
17. Social work
Social work is another job sector that is growing in popularity in the city. These roles usually involve the development of individuals and often require experience in areas such as counselling and mental health.
Other areas that can be related to social work include family counselling, advocacy, community development, social policy, housing, and poverty alleviation.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal offers several postgraduate programmes in this field of study, so many graduates seeking jobs in social work or related fields often find employment in Durban.
Organisations such as the South African Child Protection Institute and the South African National Council of Child and Family Welfare are two of the more prominent organisations in Durban looking for applicants in the field.