About the Role
The Department of Higher Education and Training is seeking a dedicated Assistant Director: Internal Audit & Quality Management to be based at the Central Office in Pretoria. This role is critical in ensuring the integrity and quality of the department’s operations, which ultimately affects the educational framework and services provided to South Africans. By conducting thorough audits and assessments, you will play a vital part in enhancing the accountability and efficiency of public service, contributing to a stronger educational system and improved governance.
In your daily role, you will engage with various stakeholders, preparing vital audit reports and maintaining quality audit files that comply with global standards. Your efforts will support the department’s mission to uphold high standards in internal controls and governance, ensuring that resources are used effectively and efficiently for the benefit of the community. As a part of this team, you will be making a meaningful impact in the public sector, promoting transparency and accountability in education.
About the Department
The Department of Higher Education and Training is committed to developing a skilled and capable workforce in South Africa. It oversees education and training systems, ensuring they are responsive to the needs of the economy and society. Working here means being part of a mission that aims to transform lives through education, promoting equal opportunities and access to learning for all citizens. The department values innovation, integrity, and inclusiveness in its pursuit of excellence within the public sector.
What You’ll Do
- Prepare audit notification letters in line with the approved Annual Audit Plan.
- Conduct preliminary surveys to understand systems, processes, and controls.
- Develop and execute risk-based audit programs and perform risk assessments.
- Identify control weaknesses and recommend improvements.
- Maintain quality audit files in compliance with Global Internal Audit Standards.
- Conduct audits according to approved methodologies and evaluate internal controls.
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and standards, including ISO 9001.
- Engage with auditees during fieldwork and discuss preliminary findings.
- Draft clear, accurate, evidence-based audit reports and submit them within agreed timelines.
- Support reporting to Executive Management and the Audit and Risk Management Committee.
- Provide guidance on governance, risk management, and internal control matters.
What You’ll Need
- National Diploma in Internal Auditing or a Degree (NQF Level 6) in Internal Auditing.
- A postgraduate qualification in internal auditing, forensic auditing, or a relevant field is advantageous.
- Registered member of the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIASA).
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in an internal auditing environment, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
- Proficiency in MS Office, particularly advanced Excel skills.
- Valid driver’s license is required.
- Strong knowledge of internal auditing principles, risk management frameworks, and relevant public sector legislation.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and report writing skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks under pressure while ensuring attention to detail.
How to Apply
Please refer to the application instructions below.
Requirements
National Diploma in Internal Auditing/Degree (NQF Level 6) in Internal Auditing.A post graduate qualification in internal auditing, forensic auditing or a relevant postgraduate qualification will be an added advantage.
Registered member of the institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIASA).
Certified Internal Auditor or Professional Internal Auditor designations or relevant professional designations will be an added advantage.
Minimum 5 years’ relevant experience in an internal auditing environment.
Minimum 3 years’ relevant supervisory experience in internal auditing environment.
Computer literacy (MS Office – advanced Excel preferred).
Valid driver’s license.
Competencies, Knowledge and Skills: Sound knowledge of internal auditing principles and practices.
Knowledge of the CET Act, Public Audit Act, Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Treasury Regulations, and public sector governance frameworks.
Understanding of the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (IIA Standards) and Global Internal Audit Standards.
Knowledge and understanding of risk management, internal control frameworks, and corporate governance principles (King IV/V report).
Understanding of public sector policies, including DHET/TVET regulatory and compliance requirements.
Understanding of Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001:2015).
Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent report writing, presentation, and communication skills (written and verbal).
Ability to evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls.
Strong planning, coordination, and organisational skills.
Ability to interpret legislation, policies, and procedures and apply them during audits.
Proficiency in compiling audit working papers and maintaining quality audit files.
High attention to detail, accuracy, and compliance with auditing standards.
Ability to work independently and under pressure while meeting strict audit timelines.
Professionalism, accountability, and ethical conduct.
Sound judgement and objectivity.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion.
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Job Duties
Prepare audit notification letters in line with the approved Annual Audit Plan.Conduct preliminary surveys to gain an understanding of systems, processes, and controls.
Prepare Audit Planning Memoranda (APMs).
Perform risk assessments and develop risk-based audit programmes.
Identity control weaknesses and areas of improvement.
Prepare and maintain quality audit files in compliance with Global Internal Audit Standards.
Conduct audits in accordance with approved audit programmes and methodologies.
Evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls.
Compliance and maintenance of the ISO 9001 standards.
Assess safeguarding of assets against fraud, irregularities, and losses.
Review compliance with the CET Act, PFMA, Treasury Regulations, and Institutional policies.
Engage auditees during fieldwork and discuss preliminary findings.
Perform follow-up audits on previously reported findings and recommendations.
Draft clear, accurate, and evidence-based audit reports.
Identity root causes and provide practical, value-adding recommendations.
Conduct exit meetings and prepare minutes.
Submit audit reports within agreed timelines.
Support reporting to Executive Management and the Audit and Risk and Management Committee.
Maintain effective professional relationships with internal stakeholders.
Provide advisory input on governance, risk management, and internal control matters, where required.
Guide and support management in addressing audit findings and management action plan.
