Senior Administrative Control Officer(One Post), Department for Education Innovation

University of Pretoria; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Pretoria seeks a Senior Administrative Control Officer for the Department for Education Innovation. This role involves ensuring smooth operations, managing HR data, overseeing financial activities, and coordinating facilities management. Candidates must hold a relevant degree and have at least four years of experience in a higher education setting. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for success in this position.

Benefits

50% contribution to medical aid premiums

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required with 4+ years in higher education.
• Experience in financial administration and HR management.
• Valid driver's license is mandatory.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of Education Innovation department.
• Handle HR data, budget preparation, and facilities management.
• Lead operational office staff and support finance and HR reporting.

Skills

Knowledge of UP Internal Systems

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Record keeping and filing system

Collaborative problem-solving

Clear written and verbal communication

Education

Bachelor’s/BTech degree

Tools

PeopleSoft Finance module

Gmail Suite

Asset Control Management

Job description

UP Professional and Support

DEPARTMENT: DEPARTMENT FOR EDUCATION INNOVATION

POST TITLE: SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROL OFFICER

PEROMNES POST LEVEL: 7

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

Responsibilities

The post carries overarching responsibility for the smooth running of the Department for Education Innovation (EI) day-to-day operations and its portfolio:

• Human Resources: Provide HR policy advice, manage HR data and leave administration, and coordinate skills levy activities. Oversee contractor appointments and claims, manage the departmental database, and assist with the S999 budget.
• Finance: Responsible for annual budget preparation and monitoring, managing year-end financial close-out, donor-funded accounts, procurement via PeopleSoft, journal entries, requisitions, purchase orders, asset management, processing travel and event claims, debtors' management, and vendor onboarding. Administer petty cash, provide financial training to new managers, oversee publication funds, and handle interim payments.
• Operations & Facilities: Manage integrated reception services, access control, health and safety compliance, space planning, and small projects. Liaise with service providers, manage kitchen and meeting-room logistics, coordinate stock and waste management, facilitate departmental functions and meetings, and handle first-line facility fault reporting. Responsible for departmental security, photocopier rentals and servicing, postal services, vehicle and golf cart contracts, and maintaining the key register.
• Management: Oversee the general management of Operational Office staff, organise monthly ManCom meetings, and provide regular reporting to ensure a comprehensive understanding of finance and human resource management within teams. Compile and maintain guidelines for Operational Office services.
  
  

Minimum Requirements

• A relevant Bachelor’s/BTech degree.
• At least four (4) years’ experience in a higher education environment, covering:
• Financial administration and reporting (PeopleSoft Finance module)
• Human resources administration
• Logistics/facilities or project coordination
• Valid driver’s licence.
  

Required Competencies (skills, Knowledge And Behavioural Attributes)

• Technical: Knowledge of UP Internal Systems (i.e., PeopleSoft Finance and Procurement module, Gmail Suite, Asset Control Management);
• Record keeping and filing system;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite;
• Behavioural: Initiative and goal orientation; calm under pressure; deadline management; accuracy; clear written and verbal communication; collaborative problem-solving; high ethical standards; service mindset;
• Ability to explore alternatives and positions to reach outcomes that gain the support and acceptance of all parties.
  
  

Added Advantages And Preferences

• Relevant qualification in Financial Management;
• Four (4) years’ demonstrable experience in Human Resources practices and procedures;
• Working within the University of Pretoria.
  
  

PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines. UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za and follow the link: Careers@UP.

In Applying For This Post, Please Attach

• A comprehensive CV;
• Certified copies of qualifications;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.
  
  

CLOSING DATE: 23 June 2025

No application will be considered after the closing date or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES: Ms Fikile Mabaso, via email at [e-mail] for application-related enquiries, and Prof Gerrit Stols, via email at [e-mail] enquiries relating to the post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 30 September 2025, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to, candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply.

By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information, including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, and current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right not to fill the advertised positions.