ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER SENIOR

This position offers an opportunity to contribute to the evidence base that shapes community safety in South Africa within the Provincial Secretariat of the Department of Community Safety. Operating from the Head Office, the Administrative Officer Senior will serve as a key research and administrative resource, focusing on developing and executing research initiatives that inform law enforcement and community safety strategies. The role sits at the intersection of policy, data, and operational support, and is ideal for a methodical and analytical professional who can turn raw information into actionable reports for a government environment.

To be considered, applicants need a Grade 12 certificate combined with a recognised bachelor’s degree, with a social sciences or research background being strongly preferred. The role requires at least two to three years of hands-on experience in both primary and secondary research, meaning the successful candidate should be comfortable designing studies, gathering original data, and synthesising existing literature. Additionally, candidates must hold valid driving licences for both code A and code EC vehicles, and must have a clean criminal record with no pending cases. The ideal profile is someone with a solid grasp of research methodologies, statistical analysis, and project management, supported by strong report writing, communication, listening, numerical, and computer skills. A logical and methodical mindset, along with an appreciation for service standards, best practices, and customer care, is also essential.

The core duties centre on producing research that directly supports the department’s mandate. This includes developing research proposals on niche areas, conducting literature reviews, designing data collection instruments, and gathering data from law enforcement agencies. The officer will also assess community safety models, compile detailed research reports with findings, and help manage a repository of research products. Beyond the research itself, the role involves logistical support for disseminating results, ensuring that findings are shared effectively with stakeholders.

There are several important administrative and recruitment conditions to note. This is a permanent government post with service benefits, and it is graded according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation. The application process is strict: only the new, completed Z83 form and a comprehensive CV are required initially, with certified copies only requested from shortlisted candidates. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate. Shortlisted candidates will undergo two pre-entry assessments, one practical and one integrity-based, and successful applicants will be subject to personnel suitability checks including criminal, credit, citizenship, qualification, and employment verification. The department encourages applications from youth, people with disabilities, and candidates from designated groups, and confirmation of disability from a registered medical practitioner must be attached. The department also reserves the right not to fill the post and will not accept posted, emailed, or hand-delivered applications. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and those who do not hear within three months should consider their application unsuccessful.