Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) is a major logistics, manufacturing and automotive hub in the Eastern Cape, with steady demand for warehouse staff, drivers, production workers, store assistants and junior clerical staff.
The city's port, industrial areas like Newton Park and Markman, and a growing services sector create entry-level opportunities in logistics coordination, FMCG production, basic admin, and customer service for local and national companies.
If you're a matriculant or graduate from Nelson Mandela University or a nearby college, this Gqeberha jobs page helps you find jobs close to home in factories, distribution centres, retail stores and offices, and gives you practical tips to move from temporary or shift work into more stable, permanent roles.
About the Port Elizabeth Job Market
Port Elizabeth (officially Gqeberha) is the automotive hub of South Africa, home to Volkswagen, Ford, and numerous component manufacturers. The city's port and Coega Industrial Development Zone attract logistics and manufacturing investment.
PE offers strong opportunities for engineering and technical graduates in automotive manufacturing. The Nelson Mandela University produces graduates who often find work in the local automotive supply chain, tourism, and emerging renewable energy sector.
Top Industries Hiring in Port Elizabeth
Automotive Manufacturing
Logistics & Ports
Tourism
Retail
Renewable Energy
Salary Guide: Port Elizabeth 2026
Entry-Level / Graduate
R8,000 - R14,000
per month
Warehouse & Logistics
R6,000 - R11,000
per month
Hospitality & Tourism
R6,500 - R12,000
per month
Retail & Sales
R5,500 - R10,000
per month
Call Centre / BPO
R7,000 - R14,000
per month
Featured Opportunities in Port Elizabeth
6 opportunitiesRetail Sales Consultant
Hiring NowShopping Centre
Quality Control Inspector
Hiring NowAuto Component Supplier
Call Centre Agent
Hiring NowInsurance BPO
Graduate Engineer Trainee
Hiring NowManufacturing Plant
Restaurant Server
Hiring NowBoardwalk Casino
Automotive Assembly Worker
Hiring NowVW South Africa
Popular Areas in Port Elizabeth
Frequently Asked Questions: Jobs in Port Elizabeth
What makes Port Elizabeth unique for job seekers?
PE's automotive industry offers opportunities rarely found elsewhere in SA. Volkswagen, Ford, and component manufacturers like Shatterprufe and Goodyear provide manufacturing jobs with structured training. The Coega IDZ is also creating new industrial opportunities.
What graduate jobs are available in Port Elizabeth?
Engineering graduates find work at VW and Ford plants. Tourism and hospitality graduates work along the beachfront and in game reserves. Business graduates join retail operations or the growing BPO sector. Renewable energy (wind farms) is creating new technical roles.
How does the cost of living compare in Port Elizabeth?
PE offers one of the best cost-of-living ratios in SA. Rent is 40-50% lower than Cape Town or Johannesburg, while salaries are only 15-20% lower. This makes PE attractive for graduates wanting to save money while building their careers.
What opportunities exist in PE's tourism sector?
PE's beachfront hotels, Addo Elephant Park nearby, and the Garden Route create hospitality jobs. Working interviews are common in restaurants, hotels, and tour operators. Peak season (December-January) offers seasonal opportunities with potential for permanent roles.