Assistant Director: Performance Management – Pretoria – Department Of Higher Education And Training

Assistant Director: Performance Management at the Department of Higher Education and Training in Pretoria, a rewarding government job in South Africa

Published 9 September 2026
Closing Date Closed
Location
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Higher Education and Training is seeking a dedicated and skilled individual for the position of Assistant Director: Performance Management, based in Pretoria. This role plays a vital part in ensuring that performance management systems are effectively implemented and adhered to within the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges. By supporting the development and assessment of lecturers, the Assistant Director contributes significantly to enhancing the quality of education and training, which ultimately shapes the future workforce of South Africa.

In this position, you will coordinate key performance management processes, ensuring that educators are recognized for their contributions and held accountable for their professional development. Your efforts will help create a more efficient and motivated teaching environment, directly impacting the quality of education that students receive in Pretoria and beyond. This role is essential in fostering a culture of excellence within public service, aligning with the government’s commitment to providing high-quality education for all.

About the Department

The Department of Higher Education and Training is tasked with overseeing the post-school education and training system in South Africa. Its mission is to promote equitable access to high-quality education and to enhance skills development across the nation. Working within this department means you are part of a transformative initiative aimed at improving educational outcomes and workforce readiness, making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

What You’ll Do

  • Coordinate performance contracting and compliance for educators.
  • Implement and monitor performance assessments and moderations.
  • Develop and execute performance management strategies for CET and TVET lecturers.
  • Provide support for the online performance management system and manage performance outcomes.
  • Analyze performance management trends and prepare relevant reports.
  • Facilitate the development of Annual Operational Plans (AOP).
  • Handle grievances and disputes related to performance management effectively.
  • Conduct training workshops focused on performance management and development.
  • Manage daily performance assessments for all subordinates.
  • Ensure the safekeeping and management of assets related to performance management.

What You’ll Need

  • NQF Level 6 qualification in Human Resources Management, Public Management, or a related field.
  • Three to five years of relevant experience in a Performance Management Development System (PMDS) environment, with at least three years in a supervisory role.
  • A post-degree qualification in the relevant fields is an advantage.
  • PERSAL certification and knowledge of the public service legislative framework.
  • Strong computer literacy, especially in MS Office.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
  • Good analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work under pressure and willingness to travel as required.
  • A valid driver’s license is essential.

How to Apply

Please refer to the application instructions below.

Looking for more South African government jobs? Browse the latest vacancies on JobsSouthAfrica.co.za. If you are applying for the first time, read our Complete Guide to Applying for Government Jobs in South Africa, covering the Z83 form, certified copies, CV format, interview tips and more.

Requirements

NQF Level 6 qualification in Human Resources Management / Public or Management/Human Resource Development as recognized by SAQA.

Three (3) to Five (5) years relevant experience in PMDS environment of which 3 years should be at the supervisory level.

A post degree qualification on the above will be an added advantage.

PERSAL Certificate and knowledge will be an advantage.

Proven Computer Literacy.

In-depth understanding of the legislative framework that governs the Public Service Understanding and application of the following prescripts: PSR, PSA, EEA, Public Finance Management Act, Treasury Regulations, Treasury & DPSA Circulars, Educators and DPSA Legislation Frameworks, Chapter 4, SMS Handbook.

Understanding of HRM best practices.

Good communication skills (written and verbal skills) and a good command of English language.

Strong analytical skills.

Must be computer literate in MS Office.

Ability to operate under pressure and willingness to work extended hours as and when required.

Willingness to travel.

Planning and organizing skills.

Adaptive to situations Knowledge of the Education Sector will be an added advantage.

Presentation and report writing skills.

Ability to function without supervision and work under pressure.

Team Leadership and people management skills.

A valid driver’s license required.

Job Duties

Coordinate performance contracting and compliance.

Coordinate and implement performance assessment, performance monitoring, and Moderations.

Coordinate the development and implementation of performance management for CET and TVET Lecturers.

Provide support on the implementation of the online performance management system.

Coordinate the implementation of performance management outcomes.

Develop Annual Operational Plans (AOP).

Analyze the performance management trends and reports.

Provide technical support on Performance management and moderations.

Resolve problems of motivation and control with minimum guidance from the manager.

Write and quality assurance submissions.

Manage the PMDS online system.

Handle grievances, disagreements, and disputes related to performance management.

Ensure timeously development and implementation of Work Plans and Personal Development Plans (PDP’s) for all subordinates.

Conduct and facilitate the validation process.

Conduct moderations of all employees across the Department.

Coordinate the implementation of performance incentives.

Conduct and coordinate PMDS workshops and Training.

Manage daily employee performance and ensure timely Performance Assessments of all subordinates.

Delegate functions to staff based on individual potential, provide the necessary guidance and support and afford staff adequate training and development opportunities.

Ensure management, maintenance, and safekeeping of assets.

N.

B.

All shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a relevant competency exercise.

67

Salary

R487 197per annum (Level 09)

How to Apply

DHET invites applicants to apply online on the New Z83 form by accessing the Departmental Website (click the ‘apply now’ button) or http://z83.ngnscan.co.za/apply and follow the easy prompts/instructions. For Enquiries: Mr R Kgare/Ms XE Rikhotso/Ms P Morota Tel No: (012) 312 5165/5513/6389