Introduction
Are you seeking a career opportunity in a secretarial environment? Consider applying for the Contract Pool’s Judge’s Secretary vacancy at the Office of the Chief Justice. This role presents an excellent chance to work in a prestigious and dynamic setting, contributing to the efficient functioning of the judicial system.
The position is available at the Gauteng Local Division, located in Johannesburg. This division plays a crucial role in the administration of justice in the region, handling a wide range of legal matters. Working here will provide you with valuable experience and exposure to various aspects of the judicial process.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please ensure to include the reference number of this post, 2019/483/OCJ, within your application form. This will help in the efficient processing of your application and ensure that it is directed to the correct department. Do not miss out on this chance to be part of a respected institution and advance your career in the secretarial field.
Job Description
The right candidate will sign a one-year contract, earning between R 242,475 and R 285,630 annually—plus 37% in lieu of benefits. Performance expectations will be spelled out in a binding agreement.
A Grade 12 certificate is the bare minimum for this role in the Contract Pool’s Judge’s Secretary position at the Office of the Chief Justice. For similar opportunities in administrative roles, consider the chief administration clerk vacancy at the Magistrate Office in Kathu. While no university degree is required, an LLB—or at least 20 modules toward one—boosts a candidate’s profile. A BCom or BA in Law also carries weight. Proof of progress must be attached.
A valid driver’s license isn’t optional. Neither is experience: one to three years as a secretary or office assistant is essential. And there’s one more hurdle—shortlisted applicants must pass a typing test.
Required skills and competencies:
If you’re aiming to thrive in this role, fluency in English isn’t just important—it’s non-negotiable. You’ll be using it constantly, whether you’re drafting emails, hopping on calls, or presenting to clients. And let’s be honest, crisp communication isn’t just about grammar; it’s about making sure your message lands right every single time, whether you’re dealing with colleagues, clients, or anyone else in the mix. That means clarity, confidence, and a knack for cutting through the noise.
But communication is only part of the puzzle. You’ll also need to be a master of organisation—juggling tasks, keeping your workspace (digital or otherwise) in order, and making sure nothing slips through the cracks. And since you’ll be working with people day in and day out, strong interpersonal skills aren’t just a nice-to-have; they’re what’ll help you build relationships that actually *work*, turning a team into something more than the sum of its parts.
Now, deadlines? They’re not suggestions—they’re promises. This role will test your ability to prioritise on the fly, stay cool under pressure, and deliver, even when the clock’s ticking down. And if you’re the type who glosses over details, think again. Precision matters here, whether you’re proofreading a report or double-checking data. Oh, and typing speed? It’s not about how fast you can hammer out a sentence—it’s about doing it *accurately*, because sloppy work creates more problems than it solves. If you’re interested in a typist position, these skills are essential.
Customer service isn’t just a bullet point on the job description; it’s a daily reality. You’ll be fielding questions, soothing frustrations, and turning complaints into opportunities—all while keeping your cool. And since you’ll likely have a dozen things on your plate at once, time management isn’t just useful; it’s survival. (Pro tip: If you’re not already a fan of to-do lists or calendar blocks, now’s the time to convert.)
Confidentiality isn’t just a policy—it’s a mindset. You’ll be handling sensitive information, and trust is everything. One slip, and you’re not just risking a mistake; you’re risking relationships. As for tech skills, you don’t need to be a software engineer, but you *do* need to be comfortable jumping between tools, learning new systems on the fly, and troubleshooting when things go sideways. And finally, research skills—because in a world drowning in data, the ability to find, filter, and *use* information effectively is what separates the good from the great.
Key Performance Areas:
The judge’s assistant formats and types draft opinions, memoranda, decisions, and judgment entries. They handle general administrative and secretarial tasks, ensuring the judge’s office runs smoothly. Typing judgments, correspondence, and orders, including those transcribed from Dictaphone recordings, falls under their purview.Meetings and appointments for official visits are diarised and arranged. Accommodation and travel plans are also managed. Case files are safeguarded, and the assistant ensures they are properly endorsed with the judge’s orders. Documents are updated, filed, and copies are provided to the Registrar as needed.After-hours, urgent court cases may require digital recordings. The assistant ensures these recordings are made and their integrity is maintained. Court records are kept, stored, and filed securely. The assistant accompanies the judge to court and manages the judge’s vehicle, including driving and maintaining the logbook.Data compilation and document preparation are tasks undertaken when required. Receptions for the judge and visitors are arranged, with the assistant attending to their needs. The judge’s library is managed, and documentation is kept up-to-date. Legal research is conducted as directed.Departmental policies, prescripts, guidelines, and procedures are adhered to at all times. This role demands a high level of organization, attention to detail, and discretion. For other roles within the Office of the Chief Justice, such as security, handyman, and messenger positions, similar standards of professionalism and discretion apply.
When and How to Apply
To be considered for the Contract Pool’s Judge’s Secretary vacancy at the Office of the Chief Justice, your application must include several key documents. These include a completed Z83 application form, a comprehensive CV, and an original certified copy of your ID, qualifications, and driver’s license. Each of these documents is crucial for the evaluation process, so ensure they are accurate and up-to-date. This thorough preparation will help your application stand out and be taken into serious consideration by the selection committee.
Applications for this position must be submitted no later than April 23, 2019. You have the option to submit your application via post to the Provincial Head at the Office of the Chief Justice. The address for postal submissions is Private Bag X7, Johannesburg, 2000. This method ensures that your application is received in a timely manner and processed efficiently by the relevant authorities.
Alternatively, you may choose to hand-deliver your application. If you opt for this method, please deliver your documents to the 12th floor at the corner of Pritchard and Kris Street, Johannesburg. Hand-delivered applications are also acceptable and can be a quicker way to ensure your submission is received. For any further inquiries or additional information regarding the vacancy, you can contact Ms. T Mbalekwa at (011) 335 0404. This contact information will help you address any questions or concerns you may have about the application process.