Office of the Chief Justice: Administration Clerks
Position Summary
Company: Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ)
Industry: Government / Public Sector
Job Category: Administration / Clerical
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa (Master of the High Court: Pretoria)
Listing Reference: 2025/59/OCJ
Closing Date: 16 May 2025
Introduction
The Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) is offering an exciting opportunity for unemployed youth in South Africa to kickstart their careers in the public sector. As part of its commitment to empowering graduates and promoting access to employment, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development invites applications for entry-level Administration Clerk positions. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are eager to build a career in court administration, learn valuable skills, and serve the justice system. This role falls under government entry-level jobs, perfect for candidates with a Grade 12 qualification who are passionate about making a difference.
Job Description
As an Administration Clerk (DCRS) within the Office of the Chief Justice, the primary responsibility is to support court operations through effective management of digital court recordings and general administrative tasks. The role is structured to expose new graduates and junior professionals to the internal workings of the South African judicial system while contributing meaningfully to the administration of justice.
Key duties include:
- Preparing courtrooms before proceedings commence by testing and operating recording equipment
- Performing accurate digital recording of court proceedings and maintaining the integrity of recorded documentation
- Providing administrative support in circuit courts to ensure seamless court operations
- Collecting and compiling court-related statistics to aid performance evaluations
- Offering general administrative support focused on court performance and case flow management
- Assisting with administrative tasks related to human resources, finance, and supply chain management as instructed by the Judiciary, Court Manager, or Supervisor
The role demands a meticulous and responsible individual who can handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
Requirements
Candidates interested in applying for the Administration Clerk position must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Grade 12 Certificate or equivalent national senior certificate
- No prior working experience is required, making it ideal for new matriculants or fresh graduates
Advantageous:
- Exposure to court-related functions or administrative roles within a legal environment will be an added advantage but is not mandatory
This opportunity is perfectly tailored for entry-level candidates aspiring to build a long-term career in government and the justice sector.
Role Responsibility
The Administration Clerk is pivotal to the efficient functioning of the court by ensuring all proceedings are accurately recorded and managed. Responsibilities include:
- Preparing courtrooms and ensuring all recording equipment is fully operational before court sessions
- Digitally recording all court proceedings accurately and ensuring the security and authenticity of digital files
- Supporting circuit courts with necessary administrative functions, ensuring that all logistical aspects are well-organized
- Collecting and reporting on statistical data related to court performance, contributing to efficient case flow management
- Assisting in human resources, finance, and supply chain operations to support court administration tasks
- Acting promptly and professionally in fulfilling any additional duties assigned by senior court staff and supervisors
This role supports multiple facets of court operations, providing a holistic view of judiciary administration.
Skills & Attributes
The ideal candidate for the Administration Clerk position should demonstrate the following skills and attributes:
- Computer Literacy: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are critical for reporting and interaction with court personnel and the public
- Interpersonal Skills: Ability to work well within a team and build positive relationships with colleagues and supervisors
- Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to think critically and resolve issues quickly and effectively under pressure
- Attention to Detail: Precision in recording and documenting proceedings is essential to maintain the integrity of court records
- Pressure Management: Ability to remain calm and productive in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment
- Customer Service Orientation: Dedicated to delivering excellent service to internal and external stakeholders
- Document Management: Strong skills in managing, filing, and retrieving official documents accurately
- Technical Knowledge: Operational understanding of DCRS (Digital Court Recording System) or CRT (Court Recording Technology) machines is a significant advantage
These skills ensure the Administration Clerk can perform their duties effectively and support the critical operations of the Master of the High Court.
Why Apply for the Administration Clerk Position?
This is more than just a job—it is a career-launching opportunity in South Africa’s respected justice system. Besides earning a competitive salary at Level 05 (R228 321 – R368 950 per annum), successful candidates will gain hands-on experience, professional development, and a strong foundation for future career advancement within the public service sector. Working at the Office of the Chief Justice also means contributing to the strengthening of South Africa’s democracy through promoting access to justice and effective judicial processes.
