Telkom Operator (Permanent position)

This permanent Telkom Operator post is based at the Macassar Community Day Centre (CDC) within the Khayelitsha/Eastern Sub-structure, falling under the Chief Directorate: Metro Health Services of the Western Cape Department of Health. The role is central to the smooth running of the facility’s communications, acting as the first point of contact for both internal staff and external callers. As part of a healthcare environment, the operator ensures that telephone and intercom systems function effectively so that patients, visitors and clinical teams can connect quickly and reliably. The position requires a mature, professional individual who can handle a high volume of calls with excellent telephone etiquette while remaining calm under pressure.

To be considered, applicants must have a General Education and Training Certificate (GETC) or Grade 9 (Std. 7) as the minimum educational qualification. In addition, relevant experience is essential, specifically in operating a high-volume switchboard, using a messaging or paging system, and managing an enquiry or helpdesk. The role demands strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. A willingness to work shifts, including public holidays, weekends and overtime, is a key requirement, as is computer literacy in MS Office applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. These competencies are necessary to manage the diverse range of tasks and to provide a professional, efficient service to all callers and colleagues.

The main duties are wide-ranging and include managing the switchboard, handling email and telephonic enquiries, dispatching calls, taking and delivering messages, making announcements, and paging staff over the intercom. The operator is also responsible for managing the facility helpdesk, ensuring that all telecommunication equipment is in good working order, and reporting any faults timeously to the line manager. Maintaining and updating the internal directory is another important task, along with keeping accurate records of all official and private calls, printing and distributing monthly telephone accounts, and providing general clerical and administrative support to colleagues and the supervisor. This means the operator plays a vital role in supporting the broader administrative team and ensuring that communication flows efficiently across the facility.

This is a permanent position offering an annual salary with service benefits, including a 13th cheque, employer contributions to a pension fund, and housing and medical aid allowances. The post is advertised through the Western Cape Department of Health, and interested applicants should note that no payment of any kind is required when applying. The successful candidate will need to be adaptable, reliable and committed to delivering a high standard of service in a busy public health setting.