Assistant Director: Internal Audit & Quality Management System vacancy at Department of Higher Education and Training - PSV Circular 36 of 2026

INTRODUCTION

Applications are now open for the post of Assistant Director: Internal Audit & Quality Management System at Department of Higher Education and Training, with the workplace in Central Office.

The advertised package is R487 197 a year, plus benefits. This post was published in Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026, issued on 09 October 2026.

Job title	Assistant Director: Internal Audit & Quality Management System
Department	Department of Higher Education and Training
Reference number	TNC/CO/26 – 10/1
Salary	R487 197 a year, plus benefits
Centre / location	Central Office
Province	South Africa
Closing date	23 October 2026
Circular	PSV Circular 36 of 2026

ABOUT THE ROLE

Department of Higher Education and Training has created this opportunity ((Re-advertisement) Duration: Permanent Appointment). Quote TNC/CO/26 – 10/1 on your application so it reaches the right panel. The work location is Central Office. The department has indicated an employment equity target: EE targets of the College.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Your key responsibilities in this role will include:

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 adherence to 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 adherence to 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.

REQUIREMENTS

To be considered, you should meet these 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 adherence to 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.

HOW TO APPLY

Download the NEW Z83 form from the DPSA website and complete it in full.
Prepare a detailed CV with your qualifications, experience and contact details.
Write the reference number TNC/CO/26 – 10/1 on your application.
Submit as instructed: Email to asdinternalaudit@tnc.edu.za
Make sure your application reaches the department by 23 October 2026.

Enquiries: Should you have enquiries or experience any problem submitting your application contact Ms RN Selepe Tel No: (012) 401 1955 / Ms JM Nyalunga Tel No: (012) 401 1940

Important notes:

Use the new Z83 form with a detailed CV. Old forms may lead to disqualification.
Only shortlisted candidates are asked for certified copies of ID and qualifications.
Late applications are not considered, so submit before the closing time.
Expect personnel suitability checks such as criminal, qualification and employment verification.
Senior management posts require the SMS pre-entry certificate and extra assessments.

TIPS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR APPLICATION

Use the duties list as a guide for interview preparation and prepare one real work example for each major duty.
Write the reference number TNC/CO/26 – 10/1 clearly on your application, subject line and CV so it is not misfiled.
Apply separately for each post. One application covering several posts is normally only considered for the first one.
Make sure your contact details on the Z83 and CV are current, with a working cellphone number and email address.
If this is your first government application, read the DPSA guide on completing Z83 so you do not lose points on a simple form error.

RELATED JOBS TO APPLY

Source: DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular 36 of 2026. Always confirm details with the advertising department. OneCareer is not the employer and never charges for applying to a government post.

Apply: Assistant Director - PSV 36 of 2026