Gardening Machine Operator; post level 18 Facilities Management: Terrain Services and Sports Grounds

Job Title

Gardening Machine Operator (post level 18) (2 positions):
Facilities Management:
Terrain Services and Sports Grounds (Job )

Organizational Unit

University of the Free State >
Deputy Vice-Chancellor:
People and Operations >
Facilities Management >
University Estates

Contract Type

Permanent

Occupational Level

Unskilled

Location

Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

19/10/2026

Operations

• Operate mowing equipment, including other general work as requested by line management.
• Ensure equipment is signed out and returned to store daily.
• Submit inspection reports weekly.
• Perform general maintenance and cleaning of gardens and terrain within working hours.
• Report any breakages, lost or ineffective equipment to management.
• Adhere to the daily program schedule or as instructed by the line manager.
• Complete schedule according to University Estates operational standards, procedures and protocols.
• Assist with general gardening and refuse maintenance.

Internal Reporting

• Report feedback to line manager/supervisor.
• Maintenance program and checklist sign-off and submissions.

Quality Assurance

• Ensure all grounds/ terrain are maintained in accordance with standard procedures and specifications.
• Ensure cleaning of equipment and workspace.
• Ensure safe working procedure with equipment.
• Comply with health and safety standards.
• Ensure compliance with PPE – wearing of uniform, safety shoes and other job-specific wear before continuing with the work schedule.

Inherent Job Requirements

• Grade 10 on NQF Level 2 (attach proof).
• Relevant experience related to the duties and responsibilities as set out above.

Recommendations

• Grade 12 or national vocational certificate on NQF Level 4 (attach proof).
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience relating to the duties and responsibilities set out above.
• Experience in operating gardening equipment and machinery.
• Knowledge of applicable safety procedures.
• Machine operating certificate (attach a copy).

Competencies

• Results Orientated:
• The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.
• Strategic Thinking:
• The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.
• The ability to plan work and to follow plans.
• Business Acumen:
• The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
• Proficient in using MS Office.
• Leading:
• The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.
• Building Coalitions:
• The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

As soon as possible.

The annual remuneration package, including benefits is R  per annum, depending on the budget available for the position, relevant work experience and qualifications.

(Subject to specific conditions): pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, service bonus and study benefits.

ONLY For enquiries, please feel free to contact  or email. Additionally, kindly contact  / 7659 for assistance.

The UFS is a designated employer and is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from the under-represented designated groups including candidates with disabilities. Our Employment Equity Plan is available at: ufs-employment-equity-.pdf

The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights provided to data subjects under POPIA. The University reserves the right not to fill the post. The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position.

Applications that are incomplete will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.