Project Assistant

Future Africa Consulting (Pty)Ltd; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm is seeking a Project Assistant to support project management activities in Cape Town. The role involves administrative support, data analysis, and ensuring project timelines are met. Ideal candidates will have strong organizational skills, a relevant degree, and be bilingual in Chinese and English.

Qualifications

• Experience in junior project team roles is preferred.
• Must be Chinese and English speaking.
• Industry-specific qualifications can enhance applications.

Responsibilities

• Create timelines, milestones, and deliverables for project planning.
• Monitor team performance and provide updates.
• Assist with budgeting and financial reports.

Skills

Organizational Skills

Data Analysis

Problem Solving

Communication

Proofreading

Education

Bachelor's degree or college diploma in business administration or project management

Tools

Project Management Software

Office Software

Job description

Supports a project manager with administrative tasks to ensure the project can proceed according to plan. Writes reports, attends meetings, analyzes data, manages resources, creates schedules, updates and files documentation, and tracks progress toward milestones. Provides direction to project team members or assists them with their duties to meet deadlines.

Utilizes knowledge of effective project management practices and organizational skills, working closely with managers to determine their needs and contributions to the campaign's success. Familiarity with project management tools and office software enhances task efficiency and helps overcome challenges throughout the project.

Familiarity with office software :

Knowledge of various project management software and digital tools enables tracking and reporting on campaign progress. Such skills also facilitate effective communication and collaboration among team members. Familiarity with office programs like word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software is often listed in job descriptions. General administrative skills like filing, invoicing, and data entry are also valuable.

Organization :

Strong organizational skills are sought to maintain accurate records, create comprehensive plans, and prepare detailed reports. Managing time effectively helps prioritize tasks and meet deadlines, optimizing productivity and resource allocation, and ensuring timely project deliverables. Organizational skills also aid in staying current and complying with project requirements and regulations.

Data analysis :

Applying data analysis techniques helps identify trends and improve processes. Presenting analyses to project managers and leaders supports informed decision-making and proactive task management. Skills include collecting, interpreting, and presenting data.

Proofreading :

Excellent written communication and proofreading skills are essential to identify and correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting errors in reports, proposals, and schedules, ensuring professionalism. Attention to detail in proofreading job applications is also beneficial.

Problem solving :

Adapting to changing requirements and challenges is vital. Improving problem-solving skills enables finding creative solutions, such as modifying plans, reallocating resources, reviewing budgets, or adopting new technology to enhance efficiency.

Duties :

Project assistants support the project manager by ensuring team collaboration, efficiency, and resource availability to meet deadlines. Key responsibilities include:

1. Creating timelines, milestones, and deliverables for project planning
2. Following up on action items and reporting progress
3. Supporting team members in task completion
4. Updating and organizing project files
5. Using project management software for charters and process flows
6. Assisting in risk management
7. Scheduling meetings and project events
8. Monitoring team performance and providing updates
9. Preparing presentations and reports
10. Researching and gathering data
11. Assisting with budgeting and financial reports
12. Facilitating communication and liaising with the project manager
13. Providing administrative support
14. Suggesting process improvements
15. Writing and distributing project messages
16. Collaborating with cross-functional teams

Experience :

Experience in junior project team roles demonstrates familiarity with project stages and showcases collaboration and organizational skills. Volunteering for additional responsibilities can prepare candidates for advancement. Job descriptions often specify required years of experience.

Education :

A bachelor's degree or college diploma in business administration or project management is valuable. Industry-specific qualifications, such as an engineering degree for engineering projects, can enhance applications.

Must be Chinese and English speaking - of Chinese / Asian origin