Cleaner Positions at a Leading South African University
A major university in KwaZulu-Natal is offering an opportunity for individuals interested in stable, long-term employment in the cleaning and facilities environment. The institution’s Institutional Planning and Governance Division, together with its Campus Facilities Management Services, is recruiting 34 permanent Cleaners. This role is ideal for people who enjoy hands-on work, take pride in maintaining hygienic spaces, and want to contribute to the smooth functioning of a large educational campus. The position is classified as Peromnes Grade 16, indicating an entry-level but essential role within the institution.
Purpose of the Position
Cleaners play a crucial role in the upkeep of the university’s buildings and outdoor facilities. The role ensures that learning, teaching, and administrative spaces remain safe, clean, and functional. Beyond general cleaning, the position contributes to creating an environment where students, staff, and visitors can work comfortably and productively. A clean academic environment promotes better health, supports professional operations, and reflects the institution’s commitment to high standards.
Key Responsibilities
The core duties for this position involve a wide range of cleaning tasks across various spaces on campus. Successful candidates will perform:
- General indoor cleaning, including sweeping, mopping, dusting, and sanitising offices, laboratories, corridors, passageways, and lecture venues.
- Cleaning of ablution facilities to maintain hygiene and prevent health hazards.
- Kitchen and communal area cleaning, ensuring shared spaces are tidy and safe for regular use.
- Outdoor and external cleaning duties, which may include sweeping walkways, removing litter, and keeping outdoor facilities tidy.
- Refuse removal, ensuring waste is sorted, collected, and disposed of correctly.
- Operating basic cleaning machinery, such as vacuum cleaners, polishers, or other small equipment.
- Deep-cleaning tasks, including window cleaning, floor stripping, polishing, and maintenance-related activities.
- Moving furniture and assisting with the setup of venues for events or academic use when required.
This is a physically active role suited to individuals who enjoy movement and hands-on responsibilities. It may involve working in different locations across the campus, both indoors and outdoors.
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must meet the following requirements to be considered:
- Grade 8 qualification or equivalent.
- At least one year of experience in the cleaning industry, preferably in a professional or institutional setting.
- Basic knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, ensuring understanding of safe cleaning practices and workplace safety.
- Familiarity with basic cleaning equipment, including its use and basic care.
Short-listed applicants may be asked to complete a skills test to demonstrate competency in cleaning tasks and equipment handling.
Application Information
The closing date for applications is 21 November 2025. Candidates who wish to apply should do so through the university’s official career portal. Applicants are advised to read the full advertisement carefully and ensure they meet every minimum requirement, as incomplete or non-qualifying applications will not be considered.
Applicants should also note the institution’s approach to personal information. In compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), any submitted information will be processed strictly for recruitment and record-keeping purposes. The university maintains secure systems for both electronic and paper records and retains applicant data in line with regulatory requirements.
Employment Equity Commitment
The university is firmly committed to Employment Equity. As part of ongoing efforts to enhance representivity across its workforce, preference may be given to South African candidates who fall within designated groups. The institution also reserves the right not to fill the vacancy. If applicants do not receive communication within six weeks of the closing date, they may assume the application was unsuccessful.
What This Opportunity Offers
This position provides a chance to join one of the country’s leading educational institutions in a permanent capacity. For individuals seeking reliable employment, the role offers stability, structured working conditions, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the daily functioning of a vibrant academic community. While the job is physically demanding, it offers valuable experience, career stability, and an inclusive working environment that values professionalism and teamwork.