ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: AUXILARY AND TELECOMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES

The Assistant Director: Auxiliary and Telecommunication Management Services is a supervisory and coordination role within the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), based in Pretoria. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring that auxiliary support services, particularly cleaning and hygiene services, food aid functions and related support, are delivered effectively and consistently across both the Head Office and regional offices. This includes managing service level agreements, overseeing contracts, conducting facility inspections, and compiling compliance reports that inform corrective action. The role also extends to telecommunication services, where the Assistant Director coordinates the installation, relocation, maintenance and replacement of telephone lines and equipment, and runs awareness campaigns to promote compliance with relevant policies and standards.

Candidates must hold a National Diploma in Facilities Management, Property Management, Public Administration (NQF6) or an equivalent qualification recognised by SAQA, together with at least three years of experience in auxiliary and telecommunication services. A working knowledge of administrative procedures, financial and project management, human resource practices, and contract management is essential. The successful applicant will need strong analytical skills to gather and interpret information, solid report-writing and coordination abilities, and well-developed planning and organising skills. Good written and verbal communication, sound interpersonal relations, and the capacity to work both independently and as part of a team are also required. Computer literacy is a prerequisite.

In terms of duties, the Assistant Director will provide comprehensive auxiliary support, monitor the availability of cleaning personnel, equipment and materials, and ensure that service gaps at regional offices are addressed promptly. The role includes supervising and leading a team, with responsibility for performance management, training and staff development. The post holder will also manage and resolve service-related complaints, implement corrective and preventative measures, and support the management and monitoring of SLAs to ensure compliance and optimal service delivery. Regular inspections of facilities and services will be conducted, with detailed reports highlighting findings and recommending improvements. On the telecommunications side, the role involves coordinating installations and relocations of telephone lines, facilitating maintenance and repairs, and replacing faulty or obsolete equipment.

The DFFE is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from underrepresented designated groups in line with the department’s equity plan, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of their qualifications, identity document and driver’s licence before the interview, and will be subjected to security screening and vetting, including criminal record, citizenship, credit worthiness, reference checks and qualification verification. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA. The department reserves the right not to make an appointment, and only shortlisted 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 (POPIA).