Readvertisement: Admin Assistant (Procurement)

Rhodes University; Oos-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 266 000 - 372 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in South Africa is inviting applications for an Admin Assistant position in the Procurement Department. The successful candidate will manage purchase orders, support suppliers, and assist in procurement operations. Candidates need Grade 12 and about 3 years of relevant experience, particularly in computerized environments. This position offers a competitive salary.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years relevant experience in a computerised accounting or administrative environment.
• Experience in maintaining electronic systems and high-volume data processing.
• Previous procurement experience required.

Responsibilities

• Provide transactional procurement services, creating and managing purchase orders.
• Offer helpdesk support to registered and prospective suppliers.
• Manage the purchase order lifecycle until closure.

Skills

Computerised accounting experience

Electronic administrative systems

Data processing

Procurement administration

Oracle Cloud finance system

Education

Grade 12 or equivalent

Job description

Admin Assistant (Grade 8)

Procurement

The Procurement Department invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Main Objectives

To provide a professional transactional procurement service to the University by creating purchase orders from purchase requisitions and managing the purchase order lifecycle through to their closure. To provide helpdesk support to registered suppliers and prospective suppliers who seek to register on the supplier database. Responsible for providing functional and end-user support to requisitioners.

The Requirements

Grade 12 or equivalent plus approximately 3 years relevant experience where such experience includes:

• Previous experience in a pressurised computerised accounting and/or administrative environment.
• Experience in using and maintaining electronic administrative systems.
• Experience in capturing and processing high volumes of data and information in a mainframe system.
• Previous experience in procurement, supplier database administration and purchasing.
• Previous experience in procurement using the Oracle Cloud finance system.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following:
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact 046 603 8753.

Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change)

• Short-listing meeting: TBC.
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the assessment and interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 8)

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R266 637

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R371 071

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date: 08 December 2025

This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.
Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.
Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are: Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.