ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: ASSESSMENTS AND MODERATIONS

This position offers an opportunity to play a key quality assurance role within the South African public service, specifically in the training and development environment. Based at the National Head Office, the Assistant Director: Assessments and Moderations operates within the External Training and Standards directorate, where the focus is on ensuring that occupational learning programmes meet the required national standards. The role is central to maintaining the credibility and integrity of assessments and moderations across departmental training initiatives, and it requires a thorough understanding of the broader skills development and qualifications landscape in South Africa.

To be considered, applicants need an appropriate recognised three-year Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma in Human Resource Development, Education, Training and Development, or a relevant equivalent qualification. In addition, a minimum of three to five years of relevant experience in a Human Resource environment is required. Practical competencies include computer literacy and a valid driver’s licence. The role demands sound knowledge of the South African Qualifications Authority framework, the National Qualifications Framework, and the Occupational Qualifications Sub-Framework, as well as the quality assurance requirements of the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations. A solid grasp of assessment and moderation principles, assessment design, instrument development and moderation methodology is essential, together with familiarity with unit standards, learning outcomes, exit-level outcomes and assessment criteria. Knowledge of Recognition of Prior Learning, Skills Development legislation, public service and correctional services legislative frameworks, and departmental training policies is also expected, along with an understanding of quality management systems, compliance monitoring, project management and financial prescripts.

The duties of the post are broad and include the development and review of assessment and moderation frameworks, systems and processes. The incumbent will also contribute to the development and review of learning programme standards, ensuring these remain aligned with national qualifications requirements. Quality assurance and compliance monitoring form a core part of the work, as does the design and maintenance of assessment and moderation tools. The role involves stakeholder coordination and liaison with internal and external bodies, ensuring that assessment practices are consistent and transparent. Reporting and information management are important administrative responsibilities, as are the management of human, financial and physical resources within the unit.

This is a Public Service Act appointment, meaning the successful candidate will be subject to the regulations and conditions applicable to public servants. The role is suited to a detail-oriented professional with a strong background in education, training and quality assurance, who can work within a structured environment while exercising sound judgement and leadership.