The South African Department of Defence invites suitably qualified and experienced candidates to apply for the position of Personal Assistant to the Secretary for Defence. The opportunity is based at the Armscor Building in Erasmuskloof, Pretoria. Applicants who meet the requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
Department of Defence Vacancy Details
Position: Personal Assistant
Reference Number: SECDEF/30/33/26
Salary: R338 106 – R398 277 per annum
Salary Level: 07
Location: Armscor Building, Erasmuskloof, Pretoria
Closing Date: 28 September 2026 at 16:00
Requirements
- Applicants must have Grade 12 (NQF Level 4) or an equivalent qualification together with a Secretarial Diploma. A National Diploma (NQF Level 6) or equivalent qualification will be an added advantage.
- The position requires at least three years of collective experience providing support to senior management, including executive administrative support, report writing and preparation of briefing documents.
- Candidates should have knowledge of Public Service legislation, records management, office administration and financial administration.
Applicants should also demonstrate:
- Strong organisational and time-management skills
- Good communication and people skills
- Reliability, tact and discretion
- Research and document-analysis abilities
- Good computer skills, including PowerPoint
- Self-management and motivation
- Professional grooming and presentation
Duties
The successful candidate will provide secretarial, reception and administrative support to the Secretary for Defence. Key responsibilities include receiving visitors, screening telephone calls, handling enquiries and providing effective administrative support in line with departmental requirements. The successful applicant will also be responsible for maintaining filing and records-management systems, preparing briefing notes, reports, correspondence and submissions, and coordinating administrative arrangements for meetings.
Other duties include arranging venues, catering and technical requirements for meetings, coordinating procurement activities, making travel and accommodation arrangements, and liaising with internal and external stakeholders on behalf of the Secretary for Defence. The position also requires strict confidentiality when handling sensitive information and documents.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted on the prescribed Z83 application form together with a detailed CV containing full particulars of the applicant’s training, qualifications, competencies, knowledge and experience. The Z83 form must be originally signed and dated by the applicant. An incorrect or outdated application form may result in disqualification. Applications can be submitted through any of the following methods:
Post:
Department of Defence
Office of the Secretary for Defence
Private Bag X910
Pretoria
0001
Hand Delivery:
ARMSCOR Building
C/O Nossob & Delmas Avenue
Erasmuskloof Ext 4
Pretoria
0001
Email:
zama.mahlangu@dod.mil.za
Applicants applying for more than one position must submit a separate Z83 form and supporting documentation for each post. Only shortlisted candidates will be required to provide certified copies of qualifications and other relevant documents. These documents must not be older than six months and must be submitted on or before the day of the interview.Photostat copies and faxed applications will not be accepted.
Important Information
- The Department of Defence will conduct personnel suitability checks on successful candidates. These may include criminal record, citizenship, financial and asset record, qualification and employment verification checks.
- Successful candidates will also be required to undergo security clearance and full security vetting. Shortlisted candidates may also be subjected to pre-employment screening, including social media profile checks.
- Shortlisted candidates, including SMS candidates, will undertake two pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an Integrity (Ethical Conduct) Assessment.
- Successful candidates will be appointed on probation for 12 months in accordance with the applicable rules. They will also be required to disclose their financial interests within one month of appointment.
- The Department intends to promote employment equity through the filling of these posts in line with its Employment Equity Plan.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 28 September 2026 at 16:00. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Due to the expected volume of applications, receipt of applications will not be acknowledged, and correspondence will generally be limited to shortlisted candidates. Applicants who do not receive confirmation or feedback within three months after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Enquiries
For enquiries regarding the position, contact:
Ms Zama Mahlangu
Telephone: (012) 355-6206
Important: Applicants should carefully follow the prescribed Z83 application requirements and ensure that their applications reach the Department before the stated deadline.
