The Department of Landscape Services is inviting applications for 20 permanent positions of Grounds Keeper at the Pretoria Campus, Directorate Building and Estate. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors and are physically fit, with a keen interest in maintaining gardens and landscapes.
With a variety of responsibilities, this position offers an opportunity to contribute to the overall upkeep of the university’s grounds.
Key Responsibilities of a Grounds Keeper
The Grounds Keeper will play an essential role in ensuring the garden and landscape areas are well-maintained. The main duties include:
- General Garden Maintenance: Ensuring that all garden areas are neat and healthy, including trimming, planting, and lawn care.
- Cleaning of Garden Beds and Surrounds: Regularly cleaning garden beds to ensure no overgrowth or debris is present.
- Maintenance of Gardens and Trees: Caring for the university’s trees and plants, ensuring they thrive in all seasons.
- Sweeping and Blowing of Hard Surface Areas: Keeping paths, driveways, and other hard surfaces free of dirt and litter.
- Litter Removal and Control: Regularly removing litter from all grounds and maintaining a clean environment.
- Pest and Weed Control: Addressing issues such as pests and weeds to ensure the gardens stay healthy.
- Sport Field Maintenance: Ensuring that the sports fields are in top condition for use.
- Ad-hoc Duties: Assisting with additional tasks as assigned by the team leaders.
This role requires a hands-on approach, and the ideal candidate will be prepared to manage a variety of tasks to ensure that the university’s grounds are kept in excellent condition.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the Grounds Keeper position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Qualification: The minimum requirement is an NQF Level 4 qualification (Grade 9 or ABET Level 4 National Certificate).
- Experience: At least one year of relevant experience in a similar role is required. Candidates with experience in landscaping or grounds maintenance are encouraged to apply.
- Skills and Knowledge: Applicants should possess the physical strength necessary for hard labor in varying weather conditions, as much of the job involves manual work.
Desirable Attributes for Grounds Keepers
- Physical Stamina: This role requires strength and stamina to perform the physically demanding tasks required for maintaining large outdoor spaces.
- Attention to Detail: A good groundskeeper must be detail-oriented, ensuring that all areas are maintained to the highest standards.
- Teamwork: Although the position involves independent tasks, candidates should be able to work effectively in a team environment under the guidance of team leaders.
Candidates should be comfortable working outdoors, in all kinds of weather conditions, as the job can be physically demanding. Whether it’s the hot sun or rainy weather, groundskeepers must remain dedicated to their work to ensure that the campus remains inviting and attractive year-round.
How to Apply for the Grounds Keeper Position
Interested candidates are required to submit the following documents to the university’s recruitment email:
- A detailed CV
- A completed application form (available on the university intranet)
- Certified copies of their qualifications
- A certified copy of their Identity Document
- Send your CV to [email protected]
Candidates are reminded that failure to provide the requested documentation will result in disqualification from the application process.
Applications should be submitted by 11 July 2025, with the subject line clearly stating the position reference number (24/368). Shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and those who do not receive feedback within one month of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
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This is a great opportunity for those who enjoy outdoor work and take pride in maintaining the beauty of their surroundings. The Grounds Keeper position at the Pretoria Campus offers a permanent, stable job with a variety of responsibilities. If you meet the requirements and are ready to contribute to the upkeep of one of South Africa’s leading universities, don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity.
For those interested in applying, be sure to send your application before the closing date and adhere to all the requirements outlined above. Best of luck with your application!
