SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

This position offers an opportunity to contribute directly to the development of South Africa's rural youth through the National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) programme, based in Pretoria, Gauteng. As a Senior Administrative Officer, you will be the administrative backbone of the programme's provincial implementation, ensuring that all processes from recruitment through to graduation and community service are coordinated efficiently and in line with government regulations. The role sits within a dynamic directorate focused on youth empowerment, requiring a candidate who can manage complex administrative workflows while maintaining the integrity of participant records and financial documentation.

To be considered, applicants must hold a Grade 12 certificate alongside a National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in a relevant field such as Public Administration, Business Management, Office Management and Technology, or a closely related qualification. A minimum of three years of relevant administrative experience in programme, project, or public sector administration is essential, as is a valid driver's licence. The role demands a thorough working knowledge of NARYSEC policies, the Public Service Act and Regulations, the Public Finance Management Act, Treasury Regulations, PERSAL administration, records management and National Archives legislation, as well as the Protection of Personal Information Act. Strong practical skills in administrative management, report writing, minute taking, computer literacy, planning, communication, problem-solving, and customer service are also required.

Your core duties will centre on coordinating administrative and logistical support for the entire NARYSEC participant lifecycle. This includes preparing recruitment documentation and interview packs, verifying application documents, maintaining recruitment databases, and managing participant appointments, transfers, resignations, and terminations. You will also handle stipend deductions and related human resource documentation, respond to participant enquiries, and accompany participants during approved programme activities when necessary. A significant portion of the role involves financial and procurement support, such as compiling and monitoring the Directorate Management Plan and Procurement Plan, coordinating the procurement of goods and services, maintaining the invoice register, and tracking payments with Finance. You will also be responsible for information management, compiling participant statistics and monthly, quarterly, and annual performance reports, extracting and analysing NIMS reports, and maintaining the Portfolio of Evidence. Finally, you will coordinate travel, transport, and accommodation arrangements for programme activities, prepare travel submissions, liaise with Supply Chain Management and service providers, and provide logistical support for events like recruitment drives, medical screenings, training sessions, and graduation ceremonies.

This is a demanding but rewarding role for a detail-oriented professional who thrives on structure and enjoys supporting youth development initiatives. The department has specific employment equity targets for this post, including African, Coloured, Indian and White males, Coloured, Indian and White females, and persons with disabilities, so candidates from these groups are particularly encouraged to apply. The successful applicant will need to be highly organised, able to work under pressure, and committed to maintaining accurate records in line with departmental policies. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of rural youth, this position offers a stable career path within the public service.