Senior Administrative Assistant (One-Post), Department for Education Innovation

UP Professional and Support

DEPARTMENT FOR EDUCATION INNOVATION

POST TITLE: SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

PEROMNES POST LEVEL: 11

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

• Transfer assessments received from academic staff into the computer based testing system (QuestionMark);
• Manage and maintain question databanks within the QuestionMark assessment system;
• Quality assure all technical aspects of each computer-based assessment (paying attention to detail and ensuring accuracy of tests) in liaison with the Information Technology Service staff;
• Deliver assessments correctly and on time through the Cirrus Assessment and Blackboard Learn Ultra systems;
• Ensure client satisfaction regarding computer-based testing;
• Manage and solve problems effectively in the event of test crises;
• Draw and deliver reports and statistics to the academic department after assessments;
• Keeping record of statistics of all computer-based assessments on specific campuses for the Project Manager;
• Efficiently communicate with all parties concerned with computer-based testing;
• Function as a member of the computer-based testing team and support other team members when necessary;
• Refer lecturers to instructional designers for more advanced computer-based assessment needs;
• Identify training needs of lecturers and refer them to the correct training opportunity;
• Supply just-in-time training to lecturers in the use of the Cirrus Assessment system, either telephonically or at the lecturers office, where necessary;
• Assist facilitators during Cirrus Assessment training events, and present some of the technical aspects of the system.

Minimum Requirements

• Relevant three-year National Diploma with 1 year experience, or Grade 12 with at least three years experience;
• Experience in administrative, computer-related work (Moderate computer skills, Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Email).

Required Competencies (skills, Knowledge And Behavioural Attributes)

• Knowledge of the administrative functions and processes for successful assessment in Higher Education;
• Ability to deal with high-stress situations calmly and effectively;
• A high level of integrity and the ability to deal with sensitive information on a confidential basis;
• Ability to handle a variety of tasks and projects simultaneously;
• Ability to identify problems, determine possible solutions, and actively work to resolve the issues.
• Ability to firmly adhere to codes of conduct and ethical principles
• Ability to accomplish tasks and processes accurately and completely;
• Ability to build and maintain ongoing, collaborative working relationships with coworkers to achieve the goals of the work unit;
• Positive attitude;
• Perseverance and resilience;
• Attention to detail;
• Ability to work under pressure;
• Confidence to work professionally with all users, including students, faculty, and administrative officers;
• Professionalism, patience and supportiveness;
• Effective time management.

Added Advantages And Preferences

• At least one year of experience with tests or examinations;
• Certificates for appropriate computer packages or compliance with the University skills requirements:
• Windows;
• MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint;
• One year of experience in a higher education environment;
• One year of experience using the Cirrus Assessment system;
• One year of experience using the Blackboard Learn Ultra system;
• Fluently comprehend, write and speak at least English; proficiency in another language of service delivery will be an advantage.

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 incumbents 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 December 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 fikile.mabaso@up.ac.za for application-related enquiries, and Dr Noma Ngcobo, via email at nomathemba.ngcobo@up.ac.za for enquiries relating to the post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 March 2026, 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.