SECRETARY

This vacancy is for a Secretary position within the Department of Correctional Services at its National Head Office, specifically supporting the Office of the CDC Remand Detention. The role sits across several directorates under the remand detention portfolio, including Remand Administration and Case Flow, Remand Detention Maintenance, Service Delivery Improvement, Corrections Administration, Pre-Release, Financial Accounting, and Spiritual Care. This means the successful candidate will provide secretarial and administrative support to one of these directorates, contributing to the smooth functioning of remand detention operations at a national level. The post is a public service appointment under the Public Service Act, and it is an entry-level secretarial role, making it an excellent opportunity for individuals who have completed their schooling with typing or equivalent administrative training and are looking to begin a career in government administration.

In terms of qualifications, applicants must have a Grade 12 certificate with typing as a subject, or any other training course or qualification that enables them to perform the work satisfactorily. No prior work experience is required, which opens the door for entry-level candidates. Computer literacy is essential, as the role involves working with electronic document tracking systems and producing typed correspondence. Beyond the formal requirements, the department is looking for someone with strong personal and professional attributes. These include honesty and integrity, attention to detail, punctuality, and the ability to maintain confidentiality. The successful candidate must also demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, good telephone etiquette, and a strong service delivery and client orientation. The ability to work under pressure, plan and organise tasks, coordinate work-related activities, and act with tact and discretion is also important. A high level of reliability is expected, as the role supports senior officials and handles sensitive information.

The duties of the position are broad and cover the full spectrum of office administration. The secretary will be responsible for executing general office and administrative duties, screening and answering telephone calls, and typing correspondence. They will compile documentation and presentations, ensure proper record management through effective filing systems, and manage the electronic document tracking system. Diary management and appointment scheduling are key responsibilities, as is the coordination of meetings, workshops, and other events. The role also involves facilitating the procurement of office equipment such as stationery, managing assets, and making all transport arrangements for conferences, courses, meetings, and hearings that take place away from the office. In addition, the secretary will perform any other tasks and duties related to the role as required. This is a varied and demanding position that requires strong organisational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced government environment. The department has advertised multiple posts under the same job title across different directorates, so candidates should be prepared to be placed in any of the listed units depending on operational needs. Applications are only accepted through the official online application system, and the closing date is provided in the circular. This is a permanent public service position, offering stability and the opportunity to contribute to the correctional services mandate.