RECEPTIONIST

This position is for a Receptionist based at the Head Office of the Mpumalanga Department of Health in Mbombela, offering an entry-level career opportunity within the provincial public service. As the first point of contact for the department, the role is central to creating a professional, welcoming and efficient front-of-house experience for visitors, officials and members of the public. The successful candidate will work within a busy government environment and must be prepared to operate autonomously while managing multiple tasks under pressure. A solid understanding of the Batho Pele principles, which underpin service delivery in the South African public sector, is essential, as is familiarity with front office etiquette and the operation of telecommunication systems.

Applicants must hold a Grade 12 certificate. Beyond the formal qualification, the department is looking for a candidate with strong problem-solving abilities, excellent communication skills, computer literacy and a genuine customer orientation. These attributes are vital because the receptionist serves as the hub of communication for the office, handling both routine and unexpected situations with professionalism and discretion.

The core duties of the role are varied and require attention to detail. The receptionist will attend to all incoming and outgoing telephone calls, ensuring that calls are directed to the correct officials or offices in a timely manner. The role also involves rendering both onsite and online receptionist services, which means managing face-to-face interactions as well as digital or virtual front desk functions. Maintaining the telephone directory for the office is another key responsibility, along with the proper upkeep of telecommunication equipment and call handling systems. In addition, the receptionist will receive and re-route incoming mail and packages, ensuring they reach the appropriate recipients without delay. A critical aspect of the job is visitor control: no visitor may proceed to offices without first having their presence verified with the relevant office and without signing in. The receptionist is also responsible for keeping the reception area clean, tidy and presentable at all times, reflecting positively on the department.

The Mpumalanga Department of Health is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. It actively promotes representivity in respect of race, gender and disability through the filling of positions, and candidates whose appointment will advance representivity will receive preference. People with disabilities are specifically encouraged to apply and to indicate their status in their applications. Applicants should note that only online applications are accepted, and a fully completed and signed Z83 form must be submitted together with a detailed curriculum vitae. Certified copies of qualifications are not required at the application stage but will be requested from shortlisted candidates. All shortlisted candidates will be subject to vetting and will be required to undertake two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and an integrity assessment. The department reserves the right to verify qualifications, to withdraw or amend posts, and to take other steps in the best interest of the service. If applicants do not receive a response within 90 days after the closing date, they should consider their application unsuccessful.