HR Operations Administrator

We are looking for an enthusiastic and people-first HR Operations Administrator to join our group's Human Capital Division. This is a dynamic, on-the-ground role that bridges the gap between HR strategy and day-to-day people operations across our group of entities, which operate primarily in the engineering and technical services sectors. The ideal candidate brings hands-on site exposure, a genuine passion for people, and the administrative discipline to support a busy HR function. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love engaging with employees at all levels, and want to grow your HR career within a diverse industrial group — this role is for you. Requirements Key Responsibilities HR Administration & Record Management • Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee records, personnel files, and HR databases • Prepare and process employment contracts, appointment letters, variations, and termination documentation • Manage onboarding administration for new employees including induction packs, system setup, and documentation collection • Coordinate offboarding processes including exit documentation, final pay confirmations, and equipment returns • Maintain organisational charts and assist with headcount tracking across group entities Recruitment & Talent Support • Assist with the end-to-end recruitment process including advertising vacancies, screening CVs, and scheduling interviews • Liaise with hiring managers and candidates in a professional and timely manner • Conduct reference checks and compile candidate packs for management review • Maintain a recruitment tracker and ensure all roles are filled within agreed timelines • Support talent pipeline activities and assist with internship or learnership coordination where applicable Employee Relations & People Support • Serve as a first point of contact for employee queries, directing them appropriately and ensuring timely resolution • Assist HR management with the administration of disciplinary and grievance processes, including notice preparation and minute-taking • Support the coordination of performance review cycles, including documentation and tracking of completed assessments • Help facilitate a positive workplace culture by supporting employee engagement initiatives and recognition programmes • Build trusted relationships with employees across office and site-based environments Site Coordination & Operational HR • Liaise with site managers, supervisors, and project teams to manage workforce HR needs in the field • Assist with the mobilisation and demobilisation of site-based employees, including documentation and compliance checks • Coordinate medical fitness certificates, safety inductions, and site access documentation in collaboration with SHEQ teams • Support the tracking of site-specific compliance requirements such as induction registers, PPE allocation, and contractor documentation • Travel to project sites periodically to engage with employees and support HR operations on the ground Payroll & Leave Support • Assist with the collection and verification of leave forms, sick notes, and supporting documentation • Capture leave data and ensure leave records are accurately maintained in the HR or payroll system • Liaise with the finance team on payroll input submissions and resolve discrepancies as required • Generate leave reports and flag excessive leave or non-compliance to HR management Benefits Minimum Requirements • Diploma or Degree in Human Resources Management, Industrial Psychology, or a related field • 1 – 3 years of HR administration experience in a generalist or operational HR role • Demonstrable exposure to engineering, construction, mining, or technical services environments • Understanding of South African labour legislation (LRA, BCEA, EEA, SDA) • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) • Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel to project sites when required • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English (additional South African languages advantageous) Competencies & Personal Attributes • Genuinely people-oriented — you care about the employee experience and it shows • High energy, positive attitude, and the ability to build rapport quickly across all levels of the business • Organised and detail-driven with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously • Discreet and professional when handling sensitive or confidential employee matters • Self-starter who takes initiative and follows through without being micromanaged • Resilient and adaptable in a dynamic, fast-paced industrial environment • Strong sense of integrity, fairness, and ethical conduct in all HR matters • Comfortable working in both office-based and site-based settings