ADMIN OFFICER: SCHOOL HEALTH (X2 POSTS)

This advertisement invites applications for two Admin Officer positions within the School Health programme of the Education District Office, one based in Buffalo City Metro and the other in Chris Hani East. The role operates at the district level, where the successful candidates will be responsible for coordinating and supporting the delivery of school health services across a range of schools, including ordinary, full-service, special and independent schools. The work sits at the intersection of education and public health, requiring close collaboration with the district Department of Health, local municipalities, non-governmental organisations and other health service providers to ensure that every school in the district is adequately covered by health programmes.

Applicants must possess an appropriate three-year undergraduate qualification at NQF Level 6 in Public Management or Administration, or a related qualification recognised by SAQA, together with at least three to five years of relevant experience in a similar environment. A valid driver's licence and a willingness to travel are essential, as the role involves visiting schools and liaising with multiple stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have strong computer literacy, data capture and statistical skills, as well as sound planning, organisational, language and communication abilities. Personal attributes such as honesty, integrity, professionalism, self-motivation and the ability to work in a team are also required. A good working knowledge of the legal framework governing human resources is expected, and prior knowledge of the education sector will be a distinct advantage.

The duties of the post are broad and demanding. The Admin Officer will provide guidance on the implementation, monitoring and reporting of integrated strategies, policies and procedures for business process management services, and will develop and monitor related plans and programmes. A central responsibility is coordinating the provision of school health services, including primary health services for learners living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic diseases, as well as screening and support programmes for eyesight, hearing, dental and related conditions. The post also involves coordinating periodic screening for stunting, nutritional deficiencies and other nutrition-based health challenges, monitoring schools for outbreaks of contagious diseases and reporting on these, and liaising with the Health Department on containment measures. In addition, the incumbent will coordinate, monitor and report on occupational health and safety measures affecting learners. The role includes a supervisory component: managing daily employee performance, ensuring timely performance assessments, and developing job descriptions, work plans and personal development plans for subordinates. The Admin Officer must also manage and safeguard assets, maintain high standards of quality, quantity and timeliness, resolve motivational and control problems with minimal guidance, delegate functions according to individual potential, and support staff training and development.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications and other relevant documents before the interview, and all selected candidates will be subjected to personnel suitability checks, including criminal record, citizenship, financial assets, qualification and employment verification. Shortlisted candidates may also be required to undergo pre-entry practical and integrity assessments as part of the selection process. Correspondence is limited to shortlisted candidates, and applicants who do not receive feedback within six months of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. This is an opportunity for a motivated, ethical and organised individual to make a meaningful contribution to learner health and well-being within the Eastern Cape education system.