Contract type: Permanent
Job Level: Junior
Work Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
The National Research Foundation (NRF) is established by an Act of Parliament and mandated to contribute to national development by supporting, promoting and advancing research and human capacity development, through funding and the provision of the necessary research infrastructure, in order to facilitate the creation of knowledge, innovation and development in all fields of science and technology, including humanities, social sciences and indigenous knowledge; and supporting and promoting public awareness of, and engagement with, science.
The NRF is a well-established organisation that is highly networked within the knowledge system, nationally and internationally. It is the principal organisation responsible for promoting the national research enterprise and is the primary public funder of postgraduate students and researchers and provider of research infrastructure in the country. It has well-developed, best practice research evaluation and support systems.
The National Research Foundation (NRF) seeks to make an appointment for the position of Administrative Assistant who will provide support to the line manager(s) and employees, assist with daily office operations, and handle tasks including support services, administrative assistance, document management, financial administration as well as logistical support.
To provide administrative support to the Manager to ensure the effective and efficient running of the office and optimal service delivery.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform general administrative duties such as data entry, filing, record-keeping, and correspondence.
- Manage calendars, schedule appointments, and coordinate meetings.
- Organise and prepare documents and logistics for internal/external meetings and workshops.
- Take meeting minutes and circulate them to relevant stakeholders.
- Liaise with internal teams and external stakeholders on administrative matters.
- Assist with financial system administration, including managing user licenses, tracking cost centres, and verifying reports.
- Coordinate travel bookings and accommodation in line with Treasury regulations.
- Monitor inventory and procure office supplies for new and existing staff.
- Track deadlines and deliverables for team projects and ensure timely follow-ups.
- Maintain accurate leave registers and telephone records.
- Provide support with procurement processes, including obtaining quotes and processing orders.
- Facilitate claims and S&T payments in compliance with policies.
- Assist with basic IT and equipment checks in coordination with the IT team.
- Support document control and filing in line with the NRF file plan.
- Continuously improve skills through training, particularly in HR and finance-related areas.
Key Requirements:
Qualification:
- Diploma in Office Management or relevant field.
- Minimum 2 years’ relevant work experience.
Experience:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities.
- Minute-taking, report formatting, and document preparation skills.
- Ability to coordinate travel, events, and meeting logistics.
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
- High level of professionalism and discretion.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
- Experience handling procurement and basic financial documentation.
- Ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary and multicultural team environment.
Knowledge:
- Knowledge of office administration practices and procedures.
- Understanding of basic financial processes (e.g. cost centre reporting, procurement, and leave tracking).
- Experience in working with internal policies and regulatory compliance (e.g. NRF, Treasury requirements).
- Knowledge of document control systems and filing protocols.
- Awareness of confidentiality and data protection requirements.
Information:
The website www.nrf.ac.za provides more details on the NRF initiatives and activities.
Applications:
Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by logging to:
https://ess.nrf.ac.za/Account/Recruitment and apply online.
Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant’s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.
Closing Date: 15 August 2025
The NRF offers a challenging career and competitive remuneration package which is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
The NRF is committed to employment equity and redress and the appointment to the position will be made in line with the NRF Employment Equity Plan.
The NRF reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Correspondence will be sent to short-listed candidates only.