ADMINISTRATION CLERK: EDUCATION SERVICES OPERATIONS COORDINATION

This position is an entry-level administrative support role within the Eastern Cape Department of Education, specifically placed in the Operations Management and Coordination directorate at Cluster A in Mthatha. The clerk will be an essential link in the smooth functioning of the education services operations unit, ensuring that correspondence, records, procurement processes and day-to-day administrative tasks are handled accurately and efficiently. The role is structured at Level 05 and provides an opportunity for a candidate with a Grade 12 certificate to enter the public service, with no prior work experience required. Beyond the school leaving certificate, the successful applicant must demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills, including a good command of English, sound reasoning and mathematical ability, innovative thinking, and strong problem-solving capabilities. An understanding of the Public Finance Management Act, Treasury Regulations, the Public Service Act, and the Employment of Educators Act is expected, while any prior knowledge of the education sector will serve as a distinct advantage. The ability to execute a variety of tasks simultaneously and to perform well under pressure is essential in this busy coordination environment.

The core duties of the role revolve around the accurate management of information and resources. The clerk will record, organise, store, capture and retrieve correspondence and data, update registers and statistics, handle routine enquiries, and manage photocopying and facsimile services. Document distribution to stakeholders, maintaining an effective filing system, typing basic letters, and overseeing the incoming and outgoing register for the component are also key responsibilities. In addition, the position involves substantial procurement and financial administration support, including liaising with internal and external stakeholders for the purchasing of goods and services, obtaining quotations, completing procurement forms for standard office items, controlling office stationery stock, and maintaining the component’s asset register. The clerk will also keep and maintain personnel records, the leave register, the attendance register, and will arrange travel and accommodation. Checking the correctness of subsistence and travel claims before submitting them to the manager for approval, as well as handling telephone accounts and petty cash for the component, rounds out a broad and varied administrative portfolio.

Applicants should note that the department is committed to achieving equitable representation in line with its Employment Equity Plan, with specific affirmative action targets being adhered to, although applications from all racial groups are welcome. The selection process includes a personnel suitability check covering criminal records, citizenship, financial assets, qualifications and previous employment. Shortlisted candidates may also be required to undergo pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment, and successful appointees will serve a probation period. All documentation required at the application stage is limited to a fully completed Z83 form and a detailed curriculum vitae, with certified copies requested only from those shortlisted for interview.