ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER: ACCOMMODATION AND AUXILIARY SERVICES

This position offers an opportunity to contribute to the smooth functioning of the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment by managing the physical and support services that keep regional offices operational. Based in either Cape Town or Pietermaritzburg, the Administrative Officer for Accommodation and Auxiliary Services works within the Corporate Management Services unit, providing essential administrative support to the sub-directorate. The role is central to ensuring that office spaces are well-maintained, hygienic, and properly equipped, and that service providers are efficiently managed. It is an OSD-graded post, and the successful candidate will be expected to work as part of a multidisciplinary team while also demonstrating the ability to lead and resolve conflicts.

Applicants must hold a National Diploma at NQF level 6 in Public Management, Administration, or a relevant equivalent qualification, coupled with at least one year of relevant experience. A thorough understanding of administrative procedures, financial management, project management, and human resource practices is required. The role also demands extensive administrative experience, as well as knowledge of contract management, monitoring and control, and both Public Service and departmental procedures. Strong written and spoken communication skills, leadership and management abilities, and coordination, organising, and planning skills are essential. The ability to work under extreme pressure, gather and analyse information, apply policies, and work both independently and within a team is critical. A sense of responsibility, problem-solving capability, and the skill to lead a team and manage conflict are also key attributes.

The duties are varied and practical. The officer will provide administrative support for the sub-directorate, administer small works maintenance projects, and manage office space. This includes facilitating food aid services, ensuring compliance with hygiene standards in regional offices, and arranging for deep cleaning of carpets twice a year. The role also involves ensuring that appointed cleaners are present daily, providing inventory support, drafting and issuing requests for quotations to service providers on the departmental database, and appointing service providers for repairs and maintenance. Maintaining a stock register, reporting redundant equipment, and replenishing maintenance consumables are also important responsibilities.

This is an equal opportunity, affirmative action position, with preference potentially given to appointable applicants from underrepresented designated groups in line with the department’s equity plan. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will undergo screening and security vetting, including criminal record, citizenship, creditworthiness, reference, and qualification verification. Applicants should note that foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA. The department reserves the right not to make an appointment, and only successful candidates will be contacted. If no response is received within three months of the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful. By applying, candidates consent to the processing of their personal information in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act.