The University of Cape Town (UCT), one of South Africa’s premier higher education institutions, is seeking a qualified and motivated individual to fill the role of Administrative Assistant in its Writing Centre. Located within the Language Development Group, this student-oriented space focuses on guiding and mediating students through the academic writing process. If you are passionate about education and providing essential administrative support in a dynamic learning environment, this opportunity could be the perfect fit for you.
Administrative Assistant Job Overview
- Job Title: Administrative Assistant (Payclass 07; Permanent Post)
- Department: Writing Centre, Academic Development Programme (CHED)
- Location: University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Closing Date: 27 October 2024
About the Writing Centre
The UCT Writing Centre is a hub of academic excellence, dedicated to supporting students across all levels of study. It offers personalized guidance in academic writing, helping students refine their writing skills and develop critical thinking through a “thinking-through-writing” approach. The centre is a key part of UCT’s Centre for Higher Education Development (CHED), and it is vital to both student success and UCT’s academic mission.
Administrative Assistant Job Description
The Administrative Assistant will play an essential role in ensuring the Writing Centre’s operations run smoothly. As the first point of contact for students and staff, you will be responsible for a wide range of administrative tasks, from managing appointments to supporting workshops, maintaining the website, and ensuring data is accurately captured for reporting purposes.
Primary Responsibilities
- Front Desk and Reception: Act as the welcoming face of the Writing Centre, assisting both students and staff with their queries and ensuring an efficient flow of operations.
- Appointment Management: Oversee the smooth booking of student appointments and maintain accurate records in the online database for reporting purposes.
- Data Collection and Reporting: Gather, compile, and organize data that is used by the Writing Centre Coordinator in reports to UCT departments and funders.
- Tutor Management: Supervise 12 part-time postgraduate tutors, ensuring effective time management and scheduling.
- Workshop Support: Provide administrative assistance for Writing Centre workshops, which are offered to faculties across the university.
- Material Organization: Assist in the preparation and dissemination of materials, both in hard copy and online formats.
- Staff Selection and Training: Offer support during the selection process of new tutors and facilitate their training.
- Advertising Services: Help in promoting the Writing Centre’s services, ensuring students and staff are aware of the support available.
- Website Maintenance: Regularly update and maintain the Writing Centre’s website and online platforms.
- General Administration: Ensure the day-to-day administrative tasks of the Writing Centre are completed efficiently to maintain a productive environment.
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Essential Requirements
- Education: A Grade 12 qualification and a post-matric certificate.
- Experience: 3-5 years of relevant administrative experience in a higher education context.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in managing databases, online learning platforms, website maintenance, and working in an online environment.
- Communication: Strong communication skills in spoken, written, and visual formats.
- Digital Literacy: A high level of comfort with digital tools, with the ability to operate remotely if necessary.
Desirable Skills and Experience
- Prior experience working in a Writing Centre environment.
- Familiarity with Vula or Amathuba, UCT’s online learning platforms.
- Multilingualism: The ability to communicate in more than one language will be an advantage.
Additional Responsibilities
The role also involves:
- Developing and maintaining the work roster for tutors.
- Processing the salary claims of Writing Centre consultants.
- Mentoring new consultants and guiding them through the Writing Centre processes.
- Acting as the primary point of contact for both students and academic staff, ensuring clear communication across all levels.
- Helping to advertise the services offered by the Writing Centre via multiple channels.
Salary and Benefits
The annual cost of employment for this role, including benefits where applicable, ranges from R378,203 to R444,945.
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How to Apply
To apply for the Administrative Assistant position at UCT’s Writing Centre, please submit the following documents in a single PDF file:
- UCT Application Form (available for download at UCT HR Forms).
- A cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.
- Your Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Send your application to Ms. Janine Peters at admin_writingcentre@vula.uct.ac.za. Be sure to include the title and reference number E241019 in the subject line of your email.
Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants may be required to undergo competency and pre-placement medical assessments as part of the selection process.
For more information, you may contact UCT’s HR department at 021 650 2251 or visit their website at www.hr.uct.ac.za.
The Administrative Assistant position at the University of Cape Town’s Writing Centre offers a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about education and student development. This role is critical to the smooth functioning of the Writing Centre, providing essential administrative support and fostering a productive, student-friendly environment. If you have the required skills and experience, and are looking to contribute to a leading institution that values excellence, diversity, and student success, this could be the perfect role for you.
