Do you have a high level of attention to detail, good math and English skills and an excellent ability to communicate both written and spoken?
If these qualities resonate with you, then a career in tax may be ideal for you.
Check out the list of SARS vacancies below to give yourself recommendations for jobs in the tax industry. The best thing about them is that they belong to government jobs. In other words, you can expect to reap an incredible amount of benefits, both personal and professional.
Here’s an overview of SARS jobs and what you’ll be doing in a day as part of the team. But first of all, let’s get to know SARS better.
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What is SARS?
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is the government of South Africa’s revenue service (tax collection department). Originally, it was established by statute to collect revenue and ensure that tax laws are met.
Its mission is to be a forward-thinking revenue and customs organisation that promotes economic and social development. Also, it intends to aid South Africa’s integration into the global economy in a way that benefits all of the country’s residents.
The South African Revenue Service is an administratively autonomous organ of the state, according to the South African Revenue Service Act 34 of 1997: it is outside the public service but inside the public administration. In particular, SARS administers South Africa’s tax system set by the National Treasury.
To achieve optimum and equitable revenue collection, SARS aspires to provide an upgraded, transparent, and client-oriented service.
Basically, its primary responsibilities are to:
- collect and administer all national taxes, duties and levies;
- collect revenue that may be imposed under any other legislation, as agreed on between SARS and an organ of state or institution entitled to the revenue;
- provide protection against the illegal importation and exportation of goods;
- facilitate trade; and
- advise the Minister of Finance on all revenue matters.
Individuals, tax practitioners, and corporations can access the SARS eFiling website, which provides an online interface.
Reasons to Work for SARS
- Exciting career opportunities
- Bursaries and training programmes
- Leadership development programme
- Attractive remuneration
Job Opportunities Available in SARS Vacancies
So, what are the career options that SARS generally offers to hard-working and passionate job seekers?
The following is a list of the job opportunities you can expect to apply to from most SARS vacancies:
1. Accountant
Briefly, as an accountant, you will maintain financial records for SARS clients. Also, you will be responsible for preparing financial statements and ensuring clients’ taxes are paid on time.
You will also be expected to make recommendations to the financial manager on how to reduce operating costs so that the business can run efficiently and effectively and increase the profits of the business.
On the other hand, in addition to compiling reports and providing recommendations, you should also explain them to your financial manager in a simple way.
Generally, SARS vacancies list multiple posts for this role as many of its jobs require the supervision of skilled accountants.
Skills needed:
- Analytical skills
- Interpersonal communication skills
- Critical-thinking skills
- Spreadsheet proficiency
- Adaptability
Requirements:
- A degree or diploma from a South African Institute or Professional Accountants-accredited institution
- Three years of learnership at an accredited training centre or six years of proven experience
2. Broker
SARS is looking for a seasoned broker who is familiar with the company’s goods and services.
Providing exceptional customer service, networking to recruit future clients, and analysing data and industry trends will all be part of your responsibilities.
You must have substantial sales experience and demonstrate skill in computer programmes such as Microsoft Word and Excel to be a successful applicant.
Also, you must be able to provide excellent customer service while working under pressure.
Skills needed:
- Reliability
- Honesty
- Excellent time management
- Sharp decision-making and analytical skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Interpersonal skills
Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
- Hold a broker licence
3. Bookkeeper
The bookkeeper is the company’s key point for practically all financial and payroll data.
Paying bills, collecting debts, administering payroll, and filing all government documents, sales tax payments, and payroll deductions are all responsibilities of a bookkeeper.
SARS vacancies hire bookkeepers to take care of all the daily financial tasks of its clients.
Accounts payable and receivable, as well as payroll and bank account management and reconciliation, will be your responsibilities. To succeed in this position, you need to have past bookkeeping experience and familiarity with Xero or Quickbooks.
Skills needed:
- Attention to detail
- Excellent communication skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Discipline and commitment
Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree or National Diploma in Accounting
- Certification from ICB
4. Financial Manager
It’s pretty easy to occasionally spot this position on SARS vacancies as many of its clients need the right person to take control of their money.
Financial managers provide financial reports, direct investments, and devise plans and strategies for a company’s or organisation’s long-term financial success.
From a financial standpoint, you’ll be in charge of analysing market trends and possible business options. Also, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that financial legal obligations are met and assisting management with financial choices.
Ultimately, you’ll need an analytical mind and a thorough understanding of how a firm operates in the real world, not simply on paper, to succeed in this position.
Skills needed:
- A high level of numeracy skills
- Excellent attention to detail
- Strong leadership and organisational skills
- Good communication skills
- Effective business acumen
Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics or Accounting
- At least five years of working experience in the financial industry
- Registration with SAICA
How to Apply to SARS Vacancies
Now that you have learned the variety of job opportunities available on SARS vacancies, it’s time to try your luck.
To apply to your desired SARS career, follow these instructions.
- Visit the SARS Careers website.
- If you already have an account, then you can simply log back in and start applying. However, if this is your first time, then you must register first. You just need to fill in your personal details, email address and password to create a new account.
- Then, select one of the active job openings. Click “More Info” to find out more about the job. It will show you the requirements, responsibilities and other relevant information.
- Click “Apply” to upload your latest CV and you are good to go!
Can’t find an opportunity that appeals to you? Don’t worry! By creating a profile, you can easily log back into your account to apply to future opportunities.
Finally, if you haven’t heard within thirty days, note that your application was unsuccessful.
Final Note
Now, moving on to you.
Which of the SARS vacancies above attracted you?
Is that a position as a financial manager? Or, do you have what it takes to become a broker?
Let us know what you think by leaving your comments below.