Technical Assistant (post level 15) (Job ID: 6301)

How to apply: Hard copy applications may be submitted at: The University of the Free State, George du Toit Building, Human Resources Department, 2nd Floor, Reception: Room S201 OR Online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll Please ensure that all relevant documentation is attached to your application. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. A detailed curriculum vitae. A copy of your identity document (SA ID or passport in the case of foreign nationals). Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only). Duties and responsibilities: Take care of and handle animals and the environment they are in. Empty and clean animal cages and pens. Clean Animal Research Centre (ARC) which includes animal rooms, corridors, washrooms, walk-in freezer and general storerooms. Clean, wash and refill water bottles and troughs. Clean equipment as part of the maintenance plan in the facility. Move/carry heavy cages and prepare cages for use. Fill feed containers. Operate the washing machine, cage washer, bottle washer and autoclaves. Assist with loading, unloading food and packing it in the storeroom. Assist with stock taking. Prepare food and feed the animals. Prepare environment enrichment toys for the animals. Assist with moving and restraining animals. Required to work one weekend in a month. Inherent requirements: Grade 10 or National Vocational Certificate on NQF Level 2. Minimum of one (1) year animal handling experience. Recommendations: Grade 12 or National Vocational certificate on NQF level 4. Knowledge of animal welfare and handling. Required competencies: Results Orientated: - The ability to stick with tasks, not give up, and overcome obstacles in completing ones task. - 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 Offic e. Leading: - The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others. - The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together. Building Coalitions: - The ability to negotiate, sell, influence and to persuade others. - The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people. Assumption of duties: 1 January 2026 or as soon as possible. Closing date: 27 November 2025. Salary: The annual remuneration package, including benefits is R211 649.67 R233 097.03 per annum , depending on the budget available for the position, relevant work experience and qualifications. Fringe benefits: (Subject to specific conditions): pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, service bonus and study benefits. Enquiries: For enquiries, please feel free to contact 051 401 2876 or email SeitlhekoLP@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2979/2558 for assistance. General: 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: EEA13Report_UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE FINAL SEP 2025.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.