Employer: Department of Tourism
Position Title: Administrative Assistant
Reference Number: DT 23/2025
Salary Package: R269,499 per annum (Level 06, Government Salary Scale)
Location: South Africa (Location will be specified during application or interview)
Job Level: Entry-Level / Junior Position
Application Target Group: Unemployed South African youth with Matric

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Introduction

The Department of Tourism is offering an exciting opportunity for young South Africans to launch their careers in public service. As part of its commitment to fostering employment, skills development, and youth empowerment, the department invites applications from unemployed youth who are interested in joining the public sector.

This Administrative Assistant position is ideal for individuals who possess strong organisational abilities, effective communication skills, and a desire to contribute to the functioning of a dynamic government department. This role not only provides job security and a competitive salary but also opens the door to long-term growth and career advancement in the public sector.

If you have a Grade 12 qualification, a professional attitude, and at least one year of administrative experience, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

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Position Overview: What the Role Entails

The Administrative Assistant will play a crucial support role within the department. The successful candidate will report to a manager and serve as a reliable point of contact for various internal and external communications, scheduling, document handling, and office coordination.

This position demands a high level of confidentiality, attention to detail, and the ability to manage several tasks simultaneously. You will be working closely with team members, supervisors, and external stakeholders, requiring both interpersonal skills and the ability to remain organised under pressure.

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Key Responsibilities

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include a variety of administrative and clerical tasks that ensure the smooth functioning of the department. Below is an expanded breakdown of the duties:

1. Office Administration and Secretarial Support

• Act as the first point of contact for the manager’s office, answering calls and directing inquiries to the appropriate team member.

• Type, edit, and format documents such as memos, reports, letters, and spreadsheets as requested by managers or other staff within the unit.

• Operate standard office equipment, including:

  • Multi-functional printer

  • Photocopier

  • Scanner

  • Fax machine (if used)

• Manage incoming and outgoing documents, ensuring that they are recorded, tracked, and appropriately distributed.

2. Travel and Logistics Coordination

• Liaise with travel agencies and internal travel coordinators to arrange official travel for the managers and other staff.

• Ensure all travel bookings are accurate, cost-effective, and comply with government travel policies.

• Process travel and subsistence (T&S) claims on behalf of the managers after trips are completed.

3. Meeting and Event Management

• Coordinate the logistics for internal and external meetings, which includes:

  • Booking venues or boardrooms

  • Sending meeting invitations

  • Preparing agendas

  • Making arrangements for refreshments or catering

• Take minutes during meetings, ensure accuracy, and distribute them to relevant participants after the meeting.

• Ensure that meeting equipment such as projectors or laptops are functional and available for presentations or discussions.

4. Procurement and Inventory Duties

• Handle the procurement of general office supplies, including stationery, office consumables, and refreshments.

• Submit purchase requests and follow up with supply chain officials as necessary.

• Track and manage small office assets to ensure availability and proper usage.

5. Document and Records Management

• File and maintain both physical and electronic records in line with departmental filing protocols.

• Manage leave registers for the unit, ensuring accurate recording of leave days taken and remaining.

• Administer telephone account records and usage reports, ensuring they are submitted to finance or HR departments as needed.

• Draft basic internal correspondence, such as letters, memos, and report summaries.

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Minimum Requirements: Do You Qualify?

To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must meet the following minimum eligibility criteria:

1. Educational Qualification

• A Grade 12 / Matric certificate is required. No tertiary qualification is needed for this position, although further education may be an advantage.

2. Work Experience

• A minimum of one year of relevant experience in an administrative or clerical role is required.

• Experience in a government office environment will be an added advantage but is not mandatory.

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Skills and Competencies: What You Should Bring

The Department of Tourism is seeking candidates who demonstrate a blend of professionalism, initiative, and reliability. Below are the key skills and personal attributes required for success in this role:

1. Communication Skills

• Must possess excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

• Able to communicate effectively with colleagues, senior officials, and external stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.

2. Computer Literacy

• Must be able to use standard office software, including:

  • Microsoft Word

  • Excel

  • PowerPoint

  • Outlook (email and scheduling)

• Ability to type with reasonable speed and accuracy is essential.

3. Telephone Etiquette

• Professional and courteous telephone handling skills are essential, especially when dealing with senior stakeholders and public inquiries.

4. Organisational Skills

• Ability to multitask, manage time efficiently, and prioritise tasks appropriately.

• Must be detail-oriented, particularly when handling schedules, documents, and financial claims.

5. Reliability and Discretion

• High level of integrity, discretion, and trustworthiness when handling confidential information.

• Strong work ethic and ability to work independently when required.

6. Knowledge of Public Service Policies

• A basic understanding of Public Service prescripts, such as Batho Pele Principles, record management protocols, and administrative regulations, will be beneficial.

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Why Work for the Department of Tourism?

Working for a national government department like the Department of Tourism not only offers a stable and supportive work environment, but it also contributes to the broader goal of national development.

The department plays a vital role in enhancing South Africa’s global reputation, developing tourism infrastructure, and creating economic opportunities—particularly in underserved communities. As an administrative assistant, you become part of a dedicated team striving to make South Africa a world-class destination.

Additional Benefits:

• Competitive government salary and benefits

• Potential for internal promotions and career development

• Exposure to large-scale public sector operations

• Opportunities to participate in government training and upskilling programmes

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How to Apply

Applicants must submit a fully completed application that includes all required documentation before the closing date (date to be specified in the official job advert).

Documents Required:

1. A signed Z83 application form (downloadable from www.dpsa.gov.za)

2. A detailed CV specifying:

   • Employment history

   • Contactable references

   • Skills and qualifications

3. Certified copies of:

   • South African ID

   • Matric certificate

   • Any other relevant qualifications or certificates

4. Proof of residential address may be requested for local employment preference

Submission Process:

• Applications may be submitted online, via email, or in physical form to the department’s recruitment office (check the official advert for specific submission details).

• Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.

• If you do not receive a response within three months of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Download z83 form here

Cooking Learnership from department of Tourism 2025

 

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Employment Equity and Preference

The Department of Tourism is committed to achieving its employment equity objectives. Therefore, preference may be given to youth applicants, persons with disabilities, and candidates from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, in line with government policies and transformation targets.

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Final Thoughts

This Administrative Assistant role provides an exceptional opportunity to start a rewarding public service career in a vibrant and high-impact department. If you are passionate about administration, eager to grow professionally, and meet the minimum requirements, we strongly encourage you to apply.

This could be the first step toward a long and fulfilling career in the South African public service.