Housekeeper (Grade 9)

About the Role

Rhodes University’s Residential Operations team is looking for an experienced Housekeeper to support Housekeeping Services within the university environment. The role sits inside an in-house division that helps maintain a clean, hygienic, and welcoming setting for students, residents, and guests, contributing to the university’s broader teaching and learning mission.

Department Overview

Housekeeping Services looks after cleanliness and hygiene across university residences, departments, and related support services. Its scope includes Transit Housing, Janitoring Services, Laundry Services, Sewing Room, and Upholstery Services.

Main Purpose of the Role

The successful candidate will oversee cleaning staff across assigned university areas, especially within a residence hall. The position involves organising work, leading the team, coordinating cleaning activities, and ensuring that residents and guests receive an efficient housekeeping service. The role also includes following up on maintenance requests, managing furnishings and general building upkeep, and handling other reasonable tasks assigned by the line manager.

Requirements

Applicants should have Grade 12 and about four years of relevant experience, including the following:

• At least 3 years of cleaning experience in an industrial setting where formal hygiene and cleaning procedures were in place.
• Prior administrative experience in a computer-based environment.
• At least 6 months of experience working with stock control and basic record keeping.
• Experience preparing daily schedules and related electronic correspondence.
• Either 2 years of experience in a supervisory or team leader role, or a 1-year Staff Supervision Certificate plus 1 year of supervision experience, which does not need to be gained at the same time.

Application Requirements

Candidates are expected to review the full job profile and provide all supporting documents. A complete application must include a CV, relevant qualifications, reasons for leaving current and previous roles, referee details for direct line managers (including name, title, designation, phone number, and email address), and a concise motivation explaining interest in the role and suitability against the requirements. Handwritten applications will not be accepted. Applications must be completed through the university’s online recruitment system, and incomplete or inaccurate submissions may be disqualified. Questions about submitting an application can be sent to the HR recruitment email provided in the advert.

Selection Process

The selection process is expected to include shortlisting, an assessment and/or presentation, and an interview. Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the relevant assessment and interview arrangements. The shortlisting meeting is provisionally scheduled for 23 June 2026.

Remuneration

This Grade 9 position offers a basic pensionable salary of R324 203 per year and an approximate cost to company of R445 208 per year.

Additional Information

This vacancy is advertised as a permanent position, although the university may decide to appoint the successful candidate on a fixed-term contract of at least three years. The institution reserves the right not to fill the post. Being shortlisted or applying does not guarantee an interview. Employment checks will be carried out on recommended candidates. All applications are treated confidentially.

The closing date is 17 June 2026, but the vacancy may close earlier if a large number of applications are received, so early submission is advised. Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date should regard their application as unsuccessful.

Rhodes University encourages applications from South African members of underrepresented designated groups, persons with disabilities, and spouses or partners of current staff members. Appointments are made in line with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022, and the university’s recruitment and selection policies.

Values and Working Principles

The university’s guiding values are Diversity, Integrity, Respect, Excellence, Collegiality, and Compassion. These are supported by accountability and courage, with a strong commitment to openness, transparency, and responsible decision-making.