Umalusi, the Quality Council for General and Further Education and Training, has advertised a permanent Administrative Assistant position in its Evaluation and Accreditation (E&A) sub-unit at its Pretoria office. Closing on 16 June 2026, this role offers a vital entry point for organised, committed candidates who want to contribute to South Africa’s education quality assurance landscape.
The successful candidate will provide administrative support that keeps the E&A sub-unit running smoothly. Key duties include planning and coordinating workshops, user training, meetings and project activities, managing logistical arrangements, and supporting the implementation of the sub-unit’s operational plan. Daily tasks cover a wide range of office functions: maintaining filing systems (both electronic and hard copy), processing claims, photocopying, preparing and distributing meeting documents, and managing incoming and outgoing mail.
A fundamental part of the post involves support for contract staff — tracking audits, assigning tasks through the Management Information System (MIS), capturing and tracking claims, and liaising with the finance unit. Candidates will be responsible for maintaining databases of contract staff and clients, keeping sub-unit registers up to date (mail, leave, submissions and movement), and ensuring effective flow of documents in and out of the office. The post also requires minute-taking during meetings, drafting letters and memoranda for management approval, and arranging travel in line with organisational policies.
Umalusi wants someone who holds at least a General Certificate of Education at NQF Level 4 (NSC, NC(V) Level 4 or equivalent). Strong written and verbal communication skills and solid computer literacy—especially in Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams—are essential. Practically-minded applicants will need a working knowledge of basic office management principles, the ability to plan and organise seminars and events, and the capacity to work both independently and as part of a team.
While the minimum requirement is an NQF Level 4 qualification, candidates with experience will stand out. The advert lists a minimum of two years’ general office administration experience as an advantage, particularly if gained in an educational environment. This preference reflects Umalusi’s specialised mandate: quality assurance of general and further education and training. Experience in a similar context will help new recruits understand the standards, timelines, and stakeholder dynamics typical of accreditation work.
The role also offers soft benefits beyond salary. Working at Umalusi exposes administrative staff to the inner workings of South Africa’s education quality infrastructure, offering opportunities to build sector-specific knowledge, expand professional networks, and develop project coordination competencies. For anyone aiming to grow a career in education administration or quality assurance, the position can be a stepping stone to more specialised roles.
Umalusi emphasises equal opportunity and affirmative action in appointments, encouraging applications from Coloured, Indian, White candidates and people living with disabilities to improve organisational representativity. Applicants must apply online through umalusijobs.mcidirecthire.com and should note that failing to attach a CV (excluding supporting documents) will disqualify them. Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates, and Umalusi reserves the right not to appoint.
For Cape Town-based or remote job seekers thinking of relocation, this vacancy is a reminder to keep application materials updated and tailored. Focus your CV and cover letter on examples that demonstrate your organisational skills, experience with MIS or databases, minute-taking accuracy, and familiarity with arranging travel and managing claims. If you’ve supported workshops or handled logistics for training sessions, highlight those achievements—specific examples strengthen your application.
This Administrative Assistant role at Umalusi is a practical, hands-on position for an organised professional ready to support the important work of ensuring education quality in South Africa. Interested applicants should apply before the 16 June 2026 closing date and can contact HCM at (012) 030 0775/36 for enquiries.