Apply for a Permanent Admin Role at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC-AP)
Are you a highly organized individual with experience in administration and office support? The Agricultural Research Council – Animal Production (ARC-AP) is offering a full-time, permanent position for an Admin Assistant at its Elsenburg office in the Western Cape. This role is ideal for professionals looking to contribute to South Africa’s agricultural research and development while supporting internal operations and client services.
Position Overview
Job Title: Admin Assistant – Elsenburg
Location: ARC-AP, Elsenburg, Western Cape
Job Type: Permanent
Reference Number: ARC-AP 41
Closing Date: 30 July 2025
Salary: Market Related
Contact Person: Dr. Mzukisi Matandabuzo (Tel: 012 672 9203)
Key Responsibilities
Administrative and Secretarial Support
- Manage diary coordination, secretarial services, and logistical arrangements for the Elsenburg and Irene labs
- Prepare and distribute agendas, minutes, and meeting packs
- Coordinate venue bookings and refreshments for internal events
- Control usage of office equipment and stationery through project coding
Procurement and Financial Administration
- Handle travel bookings, quotations, requisitions, and GRN processing via SAGE X3
- Manage stationery orders, monthly stock counts, and system entries
- Administer petty cash including withdrawals, budget tracking, and purchase reconciliations
- Compile submissions and follow up on supplier invoices across ARC institutes
- Support the invoice allocation process to ensure proper payment matching
Laboratory Administration
- Generate and dispatch test reports using Labware LIMS
- Act as the point of contact between the laboratory and clients for test result queries
- Maintain effective client communication and reporting workflows
Health, Wellness, and Safety Support
- Assist in organizing social events and wellness activities
- Help maintain and inspect first aid kits and fire extinguishers
- Promote Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) awareness in collaboration with internal safety committees
Minimum Requirements
- Grade 12 (National Senior Certificate) with 5 years’ administrative experience
- A Diploma in Administration or Secretarial Studies is an advantage
- Familiarity with systems such as ESS, Labware, and SAGE X3
- Strong MS Office skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
- Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and work under pressure
- Excellent communication (verbal & written) and telephone etiquette
- Professionalism in maintaining confidentiality and customer service
- A valid driver’s license is required
- Experience working in an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory will be beneficial
How to Apply
Ensure your application includes:
- A cover letter clearly referencing ARC-AP 41
- A detailed CV with at least three contactable references
- Certified copies of qualifications, supporting documents, and your driver’s license
- SAQA verification for any foreign qualifications
Incomplete applications will not be considered. If you don’t receive feedback within four (4) weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Why Join ARC?
The Agricultural Research Council is one of South Africa’s most respected institutions in the agricultural science sector. As a national research entity, it offers:
- A professional, inclusive, and collaborative work environment
- Competitive remuneration packages
- Opportunities for continuous learning and upskilling
- An active commitment to Employment Equity
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