North-West University Departmental Assistant Vacancy – Grade 12 Opportunity

North-West University (NWU) is inviting suitably qualified candidates to apply for a Departmental Assistant position within the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the Potchefstroom Campus. The position is based in the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, Subject Group: Chemistry.

This is a permanent position with a market-related remuneration package, and applications close on 1 September 2026.

Departmental Assistant Vacancy

The Departmental Assistant will be responsible for helping ensure the effective functioning of the chemistry storeroom while also providing support to academic laboratories and carrying out general administrative duties.

The position is suited to candidates who have Grade 12 together with relevant experience in a chemistry-orientated laboratory environment.

Position: Departmental Assistant
Reference: nwu_004650
Position Number: P001196
Peromnes Grade: P17
Employment Type: Permanent
Location: Potchefstroom
Remuneration: Market Related
Closing Date: 1 September 2026

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following essential requirements:

• Grade 12 (NQF Level 4)

Candidates with 2 years or more of experience in a chemistry training laboratory will have an added advantage.

This means that although Grade 12 is the minimum educational requirement, applicants should carefully consider the laboratory experience requirement before applying.

Duties and Responsibilities

The successful candidate will contribute to the smooth operation of the chemistry subject group and will perform duties across several areas.

Key responsibilities include:

Storeroom Management

The Departmental Assistant will assist with the effective management and functioning of the chemistry storeroom, including maintaining appropriate organisation and supporting the availability of required materials and equipment.

Laboratory Support

The role includes providing support to academic laboratories and assisting with activities required for the effective functioning of chemistry training and laboratory environments.

General Administration

The successful candidate will also perform general office administration and ensure that relevant administrative tasks are completed accurately and on time.

Occupational Health and Safety

An important part of the position involves maintaining appropriate Occupational Health and Safety standards within the chemistry laboratory environment.

Skills and Competencies

NWU is looking for a candidate who has a broad understanding of chemicals and laboratory equipment.

Applicants should also have:

• Good computer literacy.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to use email and the Internet.
• Knowledge of health and safety practices in a chemistry laboratory.
• Good problem-solving skills.
• Strong organisational skills.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Adaptability and a proactive approach.
• Ability to identify tasks that need to be completed without constant supervision.

The university also indicates that candidates should be bilingual with good verbal and written communication skills.

Additional Requirements

The successful candidate should be punctual and able to complete assigned tasks within required timeframes.

Own transport is required due to the nature of the work. Candidates should also be physically fit and able to perform the physical tasks associated with the position.

The ability to work independently, take initiative and maintain good organisational standards will be important in this role.

Application Information

Applications must be submitted online through the official NWU vacancy website. Applicants should ensure that all required information is completed accurately.

NWU states that incomplete applications or applications submitted through another platform will not be considered.

The university applies the principles of the Employment Equity Act and its Employment Equity Plan, with preference given to designated groups in accordance with applicable requirements.

Final Thoughts

This NWU Departmental Assistant vacancy could be a suitable opportunity for candidates with Grade 12 and at least one year of relevant chemistry laboratory experience who are looking for a permanent position within a university environment.

The role combines laboratory support, storeroom management, administration and occupational health and safety responsibilities, making strong organisational and technical skills important.

If you meet the requirements, make sure your application is completed correctly and submitted before the deadline.

How to Apply