GENERAL WORKER (Ref: 9.07 – AD17)
GENERAL WORKER (Ref: 9.07 – AD17)
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
📍 Johannesburg, Gauteng
Job Overview
The University of the Witwatersrand is seeking a reliable and hardworking General Worker to support maintenance and conservation operations at the Pullen Nature Reserve. The role involves outdoor labour, infrastructure upkeep, and general site support in a live-in environment.
Minimum Requirements
- Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent NQF/N4 qualification
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in general labour, farm work, or similar roles
- Proven experience in bush clearing and outdoor maintenance
- Basic building maintenance skills
Added Advantage
- Experience with controlled burning operations
- Previous work on a nature reserve or farm
- Knowledge of indigenous and invasive plant species
- Chainsaw and/or tractor operation experience
- First Aid Level 1 certification
Other Requirements
- Willingness to reside on-site at Pullen Nature Reserve
- Availability to work weekends and public holidays when required
- Valid driver’s licence
- Basic IT skills (email communication and online leave applications)
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills
Key Responsibilities
Bush and Veld Management
- Clear bushes and remove invasive alien vegetation
- Assist with controlled burns and maintain firebreaks
- Stack, remove, and manage cut vegetation
- Perform general veld maintenance duties
Road and Infrastructure Maintenance
- Maintain internal roads (pothole repairs, drainage clearing, grading, mowing)
- Clear vegetation along roads and pathways
- Repair and maintain fencing
- Ensure grounds are neat and well maintained
Vehicle, Machinery & Equipment
- Operate vehicles and machinery including mowers, tractors, and welding equipment
- Conduct regular inspections and basic maintenance of machinery
Building & Facility Maintenance
- Perform basic building maintenance such as painting and minor repairs
- Maintain water systems (tanks, gutters, and drainage)
- Assist with accommodation upkeep
- Manage waste removal and general cleaning of external areas
- Participate in small building and development projects
General Duties
- Support the Field Station Manager with maintenance activities
- Prepare facilities for visiting groups and field courses
- Operate and care for tools and equipment
- Report faults, maintenance issues, and safety concerns
- Adhere strictly to health and safety regulations
- Perform any other reasonable duties as assigned
Working Conditions
- Live-in position at Pullen Field Station, Mpumalanga (accommodation provided)
- Physically demanding role involving heavy manual labour
- Work conducted outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Occasional weekend work, totaling 22 working days per month (work schedule to be arranged with the Field Station Manager)
- Safety equipment provided and mandatory safety compliance required
How to Apply
Applicants who meet the minimum requirements should submit:
- A cover letter
- A detailed CV
- Certified copies of qualifications and ID
- Contact details of three referees
Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA.
External applicants: Apply via the Wits i-Recruitment platform: https://irec.wits.ac.za
Internal applicants: Apply through Oracle (iWits / Self Service Applications / Apply for a Job)
📅 Closing Date: 31 December 2025
Additional Information
- The University of the Witwatersrand is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to candidates from designated groups in line with its employment equity policies.
- The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise the position.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- By applying, applicants consent to the processing of personal information in accordance with Wits’ Recruitment, Selection and Appointment Policy.