Job Opportunities

Vacancies at South African Airways: Earn Up to R10,000/Month in Entry-Level Roles

No degree? No problem. SAA is recruiting entry-level staff with real benefits, training, and career growth. Find out what you need to apply now.

Step-by-step guide to entry-level jobs at South African Airways (SAA)

Vacancies at South African Airways are back—and they’re giving new job seekers a chance to build a future in aviation.

Whether you’ve just finished school or want to change careers, SAA offers stable, entry-level roles with real benefits and clear paths for growth.

No degree or experience? No problem. This guide will show you how to apply, what to expect, and how to stand out.

JOBS

South African Airways

income benefits

Find a job at the South African Aiways – even with no experience or degree!

You will be redirected to another website

What Is South African Airways and Where Do They Operate?

South African Airways (SAA) is the country’s national airline, operating domestic and international flights from its base at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

With decades of history, SAA is known for its professionalism, structured environment, and strong team culture.

Job opportunities often arise in airport operations, support services, administration, and customer care—especially for entry-level applicants.

What Entry-Level Jobs Are Available at South African Airways?

SAA regularly recruits for frontline and support roles critical to airline operations. These entry-level positions are structured for people with little to no work experience.

They offer hands-on learning, routine tasks, and a team environment where reliability and clear communication matter.

Baggage Handler – Responsible for sorting, loading, and unloading passenger luggage safely and efficiently. This role is physically demanding and often includes working in outdoor areas under different weather conditions.

Customer Service Agent – Assists passengers at the check-in desk, boarding gates, or baggage inquiry counters. Tasks include issuing boarding passes, answering questions, resolving booking issues, and providing calm support during flight delays.

Call Center Assistant – Handles incoming calls, gives flight information, and assists with bookings or schedule changes. This job suits people with strong verbal communication skills and a calm tone.

Cleaning Staff – Keeps aircraft cabins and terminals clean and presentable. Duties include sweeping, disinfecting surfaces, emptying waste, and ensuring hygiene standards are maintained, especially between flights.

Administrative Clerk – Manages basic paperwork, data entry, email correspondence, and filing. Often works in HR, finance, or scheduling teams. Attention to detail and organization is key.

Driver or Transport Assistant – Moves equipment, supplies, or staff across airport zones. This job requires a valid license, time awareness, and a good understanding of airport procedures.

These roles serve as stepping stones for internal promotions, long-term contracts, or movement into specialized departments like cabin crew, logistics, or technical operations.

How Much Can You Earn Working at South African Airways?

Entry-level salaries at SAA are competitive, especially for permanent roles that include shifts, transport support, or language bonuses.

The following figures are based on averages reported by job aggregator platforms such as Glassdoor, Indeed, and South African job listing sites, combined with information shared in forums and recruitment portals:

Baggage Handler: R5,000 – R7,000/month (plus shift bonuses for odd hours)

Customer Service Agent: R6,500 – R9,000/month (extra pay if you speak multiple languages)

Call Center Assistant: R6,000 – R8,500/month (some part-time positions available)

Cleaning Staff: R4,500 – R6,500/month (with opportunity for overtime)

Administrative Clerk: R7,000 – R10,000/month (ideal for career growth)

Driver: R6,000 – R9,000/month (transport allowance often included)

What Benefits Do South African Airways Employees Receive?

Working at SAA offers more than just income. The airline provides a structured and supportive environment, along with meaningful perks for long-term staff. Here’s what many employees enjoy:

Paid annual leave

Staff travel discounts (including free or reduced flights)

Access to medical aid options

On-the-job training and upskilling programs

Contributions to a pension fund

Uniforms provided by the company

Opportunities for promotion and internal mobility

What Is It Like to Work at South African Airways?

Current and former employees describe SAA as a disciplined, team-oriented place where you can learn quickly and grow steadily.

Many staff speak positively about the pride they feel representing the airline and the support they receive from team leads.

“It feels like being part of a big family. Even when it’s busy, we support each other.”

“You learn a lot, especially if you’re new to working. I didn’t have experience, but my manager trained me.”

What Skills Help You Succeed at South African Airways?

You don’t need a long resume to get started at SAA, but showing basic skills can help you stand out from other applicants. These are the qualities hiring managers look for:

Clear and polite communication (especially in customer-facing roles)

Teamwork and reliability (showing up and supporting others)

Good time management (being on time matters in aviation)

Basic computer skills (for office and support roles)

Willingness to learn and follow procedures

Even if you gained these skills through school or informal work, be sure to include them in your CV.

How Do You Apply for Jobs at South African Airways?

Applying for a job at SAA is a simple online process, but if it’s your first time, it helps to go step by step. Here’s a breakdown to make things easier:

Go to the official SAA careers page – Search for “South African Airways Careers” in your browser and look for their careers section on the official website.

Browse the vacancies – Filter by location or job type. Click on each vacancy to read the full description, requirements, and closing dates.

Prepare your CV – Make sure your CV includes your name, contact info, short introduction, education history, languages spoken, and any skills or informal work experience. Save it as a PDF or Word document.

Create an account on the application platform – Some vacancies are hosted on job portals like SuccessFactors. You’ll need to register, create a profile, and verify your email.

Fill out the application form – Be honest and clear. Don’t skip sections. Attach your CV and other documents like your ID or school certificates.

Check for assessments – Some roles include online tests such as basic English, math, or scenario-based questions. Make sure you’re in a quiet space when doing them.

Track your application – Once submitted, you can log in to your account to check status updates or receive interview invitations by email.

If you’re unsure about your CV, ask a friend or mentor to review it. And don’t panic if you don’t hear back immediately—airline recruitment can take a few weeks.

CV Tips:

Use a professional email

Mention any languages you speak

List soft skills clearly (like teamwork or time management)

Keep it short and honest

JOBS

South African Airways

income benefits

Find a job at the South African Aiways – even with no experience or degree!

You will be redirected to another website

Can You Apply for Jobs at South African Airways In Person?

Yes, some locations accept walk-in applications. If allowed, visit your nearest SAA office or airport HR section, bring printed copies of your CV and ID, and ask respectfully if you can leave your application.

Dress neatly, be polite, and mention the job you’re interested in. This personal effort can leave a great impression.

How Can You Stand Out When Applying for Jobs at South African Airways?

Standing out is about professionalism and enthusiasm. Even without experience, you can show potential by following these steps:

Make sure your contact details are updated and error-free

Write a brief but thoughtful motivation or cover letter

Mention why you’re interested in aviation or SAA

Practice interview answers with a friend or family member

Arrive early and dress appropriately for interviews

Is Working at South African Airways Worth It?

Yes—if you’re looking for a long-term, structured, and respected place to start your career, SAA is a strong choice.

You’ll receive training, earn steady pay, and enjoy benefits while learning valuable skills. For entry-level workers, it’s a chance to enter a world of travel, teamwork, and growth.

Ready to explore more options? Check this article about Amazon vacancies and start a promising career with the number one e-commerce company in the world!