✅ Attention Job Seekers: Be sure to read through the entire post for important details! You'll find the application link or email provided at the end of the post.
The Department of Agriculture invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for its Secretary – Plant Health Directorate vacancy. The closing date for applications is 5 June 2026 at 16:00.
Job Details
- Position: Secretary (Reference 3/3/1/35/2026)
- Directorate: Plant Health
- Department: Agriculture
- Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
- Salary: R 237 453 per year (Level 5)
- Employment type: Permanent, entry‑level
- Industry: Public service / government administration
What the role involves
You will work directly with a senior manager and help keep the office running smoothly. Typical tasks include:
- Answering phones, directing calls, and greeting visitors.
- Keeping the manager’s diary up to date and arranging appointments.
- Typing letters, reports, and emails for the manager and other staff.
- Using office machines such as copy‑printers and fax machines.
- Booking meeting rooms, sending invitations, and arranging light refreshments.
- Preparing agendas and collecting the paperwork needed for meetings.
- Taking simple meeting notes when asked.
- Organising travel, checking bookings with travel agents, and submitting travel or expense claims.
- Filing documents correctly and maintaining a tidy filing system.
- Updating leave registers, telephone logs and other office records.
- Receiving, logging, and distributing incoming and outgoing mail.
- Helping to order office supplies like stationery and refreshments.
- Making sure all work follows department policies and procedures.
- Doing basic research and helping to draft documents.
- Keeping confidential information private and handling all tasks with discretion.
- Supporting the senior manager’s office so it runs efficiently.
What you need to bring
- A Grade 12 certificate (NQF Level 4) – no previous work experience required.
- Good phone manners and the ability to communicate clearly in writing and speaking.
- Basic knowledge of how money and invoices are handled in an office.
- Strong planning and organisational skills; you can keep several tasks on track at once.
- Comfortable using a computer, especially Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
- Ability to talk to people at all levels, from clerks to senior officials.
- Reliable, professional and able to act with tact and discretion.
- Friendly personality and good people skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Self‑motivated, neat appearance and a willingness to work extra hours when needed.
- Ability to research, read and understand simple documents.
- Eagerness to learn about public‑service rules and procedures.
- Sharp eye for detail and accuracy.
Why this job is a good start
The secretary role in the Plant Health Directorate gives you a foot‑in‑the‑door to government work. You’ll be close to senior managers, see how policies are drafted, and build solid admin, communication and organisational skills that are valued in any workplace. The position is perfect for someone who wants to start a career in the public sector and grow with the department.
How to apply
You can hand‑deliver your application during office hours to:
20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002
or email it to Srecruit35@nda.gov.za.
For more details about the vacancy, click the link below:
More information can be found here
Take this chance to begin a rewarding career in government administration. Apply before the deadline!