The University of Zimbabwe is inviting applications for 65 Office Assistant/Secretary positions available across various faculties and departments.
Job Summary
- Employer: University of Zimbabwe
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Administration
- Closing Date: 2026-10-15
Key Responsibilities
- Undertaking general administrative duties in the Department.
- Managing the Head of Department/Chairperson’s diary.
- Writing reports.
- Typing and filing departmental correspondence.
- Preparing files for Committee meetings.
- Maintaining proper record keeping.
- Handling various staff and student issues.
- Performing any other duties as assigned by the Chairperson of the Department.
Requirements
- A National Diploma in Secretarial Studies or equivalent.
- Five Ordinary Level passes, including English Language.
- At least three years of relevant experience.
- Computer literacy in ICT packages.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: uzcareers.co.zw
About the Company
The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) is a public university in Harare, Zimbabwe. It was opened in 1952 as the University College of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, and was initially affiliated with the University of London. It was later renamed the University of Rhodesia, and adopted its present name upon Zimbabwe's independence in 1980. UZ is the oldest university in Zimbabwe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for an Office Assistant/Secretary role at a Zimbabwean university?
Most positions require at least 5 O-Level passes including English, with a Secretarial Certificate or Diploma from institutions like Polytechnic Colleges or Zimbabwe School of Administration. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and typing speed of 40-50 wpm are commonly expected. Some roles may accept relevant experience in lieu of formal qualifications.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Office Assistant/Secretary in Zimbabwe's public sector?
Daily tasks include managing correspondence, scheduling appointments, filing documents, taking minutes during meetings, and handling telephone communications. You will also coordinate office supplies, assist with event logistics, and support senior staff with administrative duties. Accuracy and discretion with confidential information are highly valued.
How does workplace culture and hierarchy function in Zimbabwean administrative offices?
Respect for seniority and formal titles is important; addressing colleagues appropriately and following chain of command is expected. Punctuality is essential, though flexibility may exist depending on institutional norms. Building relationships through polite communication and reliability strengthens your position within the team.
What career progression opportunities exist for Office Assistants/Secretaries in Zimbabwe?
With experience and further studies, you can advance to Senior Secretary, Personal Assistant, or Administrative Officer roles. Pursuing diplomas or degrees in Public Administration, Human Resources, or Management opens doors to supervisory positions. Some transition into specialized areas like registry management or executive support.
What benefits are typically offered for full-time administrative positions at Zimbabwean public institutions?
Benefits usually include annual leave, sick leave, and pension contributions through the Public Service Commission or relevant authority. Medical aid schemes may be available, though coverage varies by employer and grade level. Housing and transport allowances are sometimes provided depending on the institution's policies.
How should I apply for an Office Assistant/Secretary position, and what do Zimbabwean employers prioritize?
Applications typically require a detailed CV, certified copies of certificates, and a cover letter submitted through official channels advertised in newspapers or institutional websites. Employers prioritize proven reliability, strong communication skills, and verifiable references from previous administrative roles. Demonstrating familiarity with Zimbabwean public service procedures can strengthen your application.
