Investigating the Factors Influencing Job Satisfaction: A Case Study of eThekwini Municipality Parks Department Employees

This article seeks to analyse the factors influencing job satisfaction in a case study carried out with
eThekwini Municipality Parks department employees. The article adopts a qualitative research using a
case study approach based on focus group discussions, which were held with relevant key informants
comprising 36 senior managements, middle management and general. Thematic analysis was used.
The findings revealed various factors influencing job satisfaction within eThekwini municipality parks
department. These factors include helping communities; personal growth opportunities; working with
communities; working conditions; equipment; lack of consistency with human resource management;
lack of resources; gaining experience; general life satisfaction; and qualifications. Among these
factors, poor working conditions; lack of promotion opportunities and lack of job security were the
leading factors of job dissatisfaction. The study concludes with providing practical suggestions for
improving factors affecting eThekwini parks department employees for increasing their level of job
satisfaction. The recommendations made in this study if implemented could result in eThekwini
Municipality park employees increase their level of satisfaction.