University of the Free State Jobs

Share this post on

Facebook X LinkedIn

To apply, click on the link at the end of the posts and all the best with your applications

Intern (2 Positions) (Contract appointment: 12 months)

Job Title

Intern (2 Positions) (Contract appointment: 12 months)

Organizational Unit

University of the Free State -> Faculty of Health Sciences -> School of Biomedical Sciences

Contract Type

Contract

Occupational Level

Semi-Skilled

Location

Bloemfontein Campus – Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

24/1/2026

Description

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:

•   A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
•   Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
•   A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).

Duties and responsibilities:
•   Engage in structured wet and dry lab (Bioinformatics) genomic training.
•   Assist with the business onuses of the unit when required.
•   Assist with organizing structured bioinformatics workshops.
•   Provide training for visiting researchers and students when needed.
•   Partake in research dissemination.

Inherent requirements:
• A BTech degree on NQF Level 7 in the field of Molecular Biology, Virology, Genetics, Microbiology or related field.

The following criteria apply to the selection of candidates:
•   The applicant should not currently be participating in an existing learnership/internship programme.
•   The applicant should not have any previous formal work experience.
•   The applicant must be willing to sign an internship agreement with UFS.

Recommendations:
•   An Honours or Master’s degree in the field of Molecular Biology, Virology, Genetics, Microbiology or related field.
•   Previous experience as a student in a molecular laboratory (not formal work experience).
•   Strong skills in deductive reasoning.
•   Committed to supporting a friendly, inclusive and collaborative environment.
•   Excellent communication skills.

Competencies

Required 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 be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.
•   Business Acumen:
–   The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
–   Proficient in using MS Office.
–   Previous knowledge or experience on Next generation sequencing.
–   Previous knowledge or experience on using several bioinformatic tools.
•   Leading:
–   The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
–   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.

Assumption of duties:
As soon as possible.

Closing date:
24 January 2026.

Salary:
The salary is R15,000 per month.

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 9813/ 2979 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.

Click here to apply

Senior Lecturer: Department of Political Studies and Governance

Job Title

Senior Lecturer: Department of Political Studies and Governance (Job ID: 6324)

Organizational Unit

University of the Free State -> Faculty of Humanities -> Department Political Studies and Governance

Contract Type

Permanent

Occupational Level

Junior Management

Location

Bloemfontein Campus – Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

1/2/2026

Description

The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.

Duties and responsibilities:

•   Responsible for teaching undergraduate modules in the Bachelor of Arts in Governance and Political Transformation.
•   Responsible for teaching postgraduate modules in the Postgraduate Diploma in Governance and Political Transformation.
•   Responsible for postgraduate supervision for the MA and PhD qualifications in Governance and Political Transformation.
•   Assist with continuous curriculum renewal.
•   Execute formal administrative and organisational tasks relating to academic administration and general programme administration.
•   Assist with academic advice for undergraduate students, especially during the annual registration period.
•   Ensure regular research outputs through publication in accredited academic journals.
•   Participate in community engagement activities.

Inherent Job Requirements:

•   PhD on NQF Level 10 in the field of Public Governance or related fields.
•   Proven relevant experience in higher education teaching and learning.
•   A record of publication in accredited academic journals.
•   Proven experience in the presentation of papers/posters at national scholarly conferences.
•   Proven national recognition for specialist expertise and research in a specific area of scholarship.
•   An NRF rating or demonstrated potential for obtaining an NRF rating.
•   Proven experience in supervision of graduated master’s-degree students.
•   A proven research record of relevant publications in national and international accredited journals.
•   Proven experience of service as an active member of a national or international scholarly society or committee or agency concerned with research at higher-education levels.

Recommendations:

•   Evidence of knowledge of the evolution of Public Governance as a discipline in terms of teaching and research.
•   A minimum of 7 years relevant experience in higher education teaching and learning.
•   A minimum of 3 years relevant experience in postgraduate supervision.

Competencies

Key Competencies Required:

•   Results-Oriented:
–   The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.
–   The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable, and to fulfil obligations.

•   Strategic Thinking:
–   The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
–   The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.

•   Business Acumen:
–   The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
–   Proficient in using MS Office.

•   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 be sensitive and understanding to the needs and feelings of others.
–   The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

Required Documents

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:
•   A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
•   Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
•   A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for 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).

Assumption of duties:
01 April 2026

Closing date:
1 February 2026

Salary:
The salary is available on request.

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 me at 051 401 9813 or email at PhokaR@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2979/ 9814 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

Click here to apply

Assistant Officer: Technical Support Agent

Job Title

Assistant Officer: Technical Support Agent (post level 13) Job ID: 6330

Organizational Unit

University of the Free State -> Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations -> Information and Communications Technology Services

Contract Type

Permanent

Occupational Level

Semi-Skilled

Location

Bloemfontein Campus – Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

25/1/2026

Description

KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll  – Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered. The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:
•   A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
•   Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
•   A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for 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:
Technical Support:
•   Provide technical support for hardware and software by performing troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and resolution of requests/incidents.
•   Provide efficient and effective customer service to the user.
•   Provide after-hours technical support as needed.
•   Install new equipment, such as workstations, peripherals and accessories.
•   Deploy and install workstation software inclusive of system software, productivity software and applicable driver software.
•   Relocate computer equipment as per operational requirements.
•   Troubleshoot and resolve hardware or software related incidents.
•   Replace hardware parts, as required.
•   Update the resolutions and knowledge base on IT Service management systems.
•   Support and assist in the deployment of new software or applications.
•   Research, test and evaluate new technologies on request.
•   Provide technical onsite support during special events on and off campus.
•   Perform incident and service request classification and prioritization.
•   Prioritise requests, incidents, and problems to ensure high service levels.
Relationship Support:
•   Ensure client satisfaction by adhering to Service Level agreements (SLAs).
•   Ensure clear and effective communication to manage relationships and needs/requirements.
•   Establish and maintain healthy and professional relationships with function-related stakeholders.
•   Liaise with the Lead: ICTS Technical Support Services to escalate any issues to receive the required attention.
Quality Assurance:
•   Adhere to, and contribute to all relevant policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines.
•   Contribute and support the maintenance and coordination of the relevant SOPs.
Professional Development:
•   Fulfil all responsibilities regarding performance management.
•   Remains competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contacts with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses.

Inherent requirements:
•   Higher certificate on NQF Level 5 in an IT-related field (attach a copy).
•   Professional certification: CompTIA A+ or CompTIA N+ or a diploma/certificate/short learning programme in computer studies with modules of hardware and networking (attach proof).
•   Minimum of one (1) year’s experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.
•   Valid driver’s license (attach a copy).
Recommendations:
•   Three (3) years’ experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.
•   Knowledge of troubleshooting technical problems
•   Working knowledge of computer software (Microsoft productivity suite, Windows, MAC OS)
•   This position will require the incumbent to perform heavy lifting and moving equipment.
•   Understanding of Higher Education and ICTS policies and procedures.
•   Apple certification (attach proof).
•   Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) certification (attach proof).

Competencies

Required competencies:
•   Results Orientated:
–   The ability to stick with tasks, not give up, and overcome obstacles in completing one’s 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 carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.
•   Business Acumen:
–   The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
–   Proficient in using MS Office.
•   Leading:
–   The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
–   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.
–   The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision.

Assumption of duties:
As soon as possible

Closing date:
25 January 2025

Salary:
The annual remuneration package, including benefits is R 231 699,90– R 388 426,59 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 2979 or email JardineS@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 9813 / 9848 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

Click here to apply

Assistant Director: Investigations Services

Job Title

Assistant Director: Investigations Services (post level 7) Job ID: 6327

Organizational Unit

University of the Free State -> Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations -> Protection Services

Contract Type

Permanent

Occupational Level

Junior Management

Location

Bloemfontein Campus – Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

23/1/2026

Description

KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll – Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered. The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:
•   A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
•   Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
•   A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for 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:
•   Identify and detect actual and perceived threats facing the university through the collection (covert & overt), collation and analysis of security and crime-related intelligence.
•   Develop and maintain an early warning threat detection system to ensure proactive deployment of security countermeasures.
•   Analyse areas of potential risk to the assets, staff and students of the UFS in line with the Threat Detection responsibilities.
•   Develop and ensure implementation of Investigation Strategy, Policy and Protocols.
•   Allocate reported cases or incidents to Investigating Officers and ensure that they are investigated in accordance with the UFS Crime and Incidents Investigation Procedure.
•   Provide support and leadership to the Investigators as and when a need arises.
•   Develop and maintain crime statistics and analysis capacity to inform the relevant stakeholders of
the current situation and to determine crime patterns for effective mitigation.
•   Manage the resources allocated to the Investigations Unit.
•   Ensure that there is an ongoing engagement with the Investigators through both formal and informal meetings as part of employee engagement.
•   Ensure investigation reports are compiled for each reported case or incident.
•   Establish and maintain relationships with external law enforcement functionaries such as SAPS, SSA,
Community Policing Forums, Municipality and Private Security Companies.
•   Establish and maintain a database of key Protection Services stakeholders.
•   Represent the UFS at external meetings dealing with safety and security, inclusive of the Community
Policing Forums, Sector Policing and other off campus safety forum meetings.
•   Develop and implement an off-campus safety and security plan and a security response plan in cooperation with the relevant role players e.g. SAPS, Armed Response security companies etc.
•   Ensure that crime hot spots are identified and sensitise the operational team, staff and students of the threat and report to the relevant role players for the mitigation thereof.
•   Coordinate and facilitate crime awareness campaigns and capacity building sessions for students and staff in consultation with the Department of Communication and Marketing as well as other key stakeholders.
•   Participate or ensure participation of Investigating Officers during building assessments, crime awareness sessions, as well as other important university events such as graduations, registrations etc.
•   Submit budget inputs for the Investigations Unit based on the department’s strategic and Annual Performance Plan.
•   Manage budget in allocated entities strictly in accordance with the UFS supply chain management processes.
•   Liaise with the departmental finance office from time to time as and when a need arises.
•   Ensure correct invoices for services rendered by contracted investigations service providers.

Inherent requirements:
•   Bachelor’s degree or an Advanced Diploma/B.Tech degree/Postgraduate Certificate on NQF Level 7 in Policing, Criminology or Security Management.
•   Valid Grade A, PSIRA registration (attach a copy) or willingness to obtain within six (6) months of appointment.
•   Minimum of four (4) years of management experience related to the duties and responsibilities.
•   Valid driver’s license (attach a copy).

Recommendations:
•   Honours degree /Postgraduate Diploma/Professional Bachelor’s degree on NQF Level 8 in Business Management/Administration or Leadership.
•   Experience within law enforcement, especially intelligence environment.
•   Experience within the higher education environment.
•   Knowledge of university systems, policies, procedures.
•   Intelligence and investigations related qualifications (attach).

Competencies

Required competencies:
•   Results Orientated:
–   The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and to work to achieve success.
–   The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.
•   Strategic Thinking:
–   The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
–   The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.
•   Business Acumen:
–   The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
–   Proficient in using MS Office.
•   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 interact with others and establish personal connections with people.
–   The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision.

Assumption of duties:
01 March 2026.

Closing date:
23 January 2026

Salary:
The salary is available on request.

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 2979 or email JardineS@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2558 / 9813 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

Click here to apply

Traffic Officer

Job Title

Traffic Officer (post level 12) (2 positions) Job ID: 6326

Organizational Unit

University of the Free State -> Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations -> Protection Services

Contract Type

Permanent

Occupational Level

Semi-Skilled

Location

Bloemfontein Campus – Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

21/1/2026

Description

Inherent requirements:
•   A Traffic Officer’s Diploma on NQF Level 4, issued by an accredited Traffic College Training under the Department of Transport and Road Traffic Management Corporation.
•   Currently appointed as a Traffic Officer/Warden, with a personal infrastructure number by a relevant appointing authority.(attach proof).
•   Minimum two (2) years’ relevant working experience as a Traffic Warden or Traffic Officer.
•   Valid South African driver’s license code 08 or 10 (attach a copy).

Recommendations:
•   A three-year National Diploma in Traffic Policing or Metropolitan Policing on NQF Level 6.
•   Examiner of vehicles or a license certificate (attach a copy).
•   Experience within the higher education environment.
•   Knowledge of university systems, policies, and procedures.
•   Member of or registration at a professional body (attach a copy).

Competencies

Required competencies:
•   Results Orientated:
–   The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.
–   The ability to maintain composure and self-control.
•   Strategic Thinking:
–   The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
–   The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.
•   Business Acumen:
–   The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
–   Proficient in using MS Office.
•   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 be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
–   The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision.

Assumption of duties:
01 March 2026.

Closing date:
21 January 2026

Salary:
The annual remuneration package, including benefits is R 388 426.59 – R 487 479.38 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 2979 or email JardineS@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 9814 / 9813 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

Click here to apply

Chief Officer: Specialist Writer

Job Title

Chief Officer: Specialist Writer (Post Level 8) (Job ID : 6325)

Organizational Unit

University of the Free State -> Vice- Chancellor and Principal -> Communication and Marketing

Contract Type

Permanent

Occupational Level

Junior Management

Location

Bloemfontein Campus – Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

25/1/2026

Description

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:
•   A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
•   Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
•   A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for 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:

High-Impact Writing and Editing:
•   Support the Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s stakeholder engagement programme and content calendar by producing high-level speeches, articles, and digital content for use by the DCM’s Content Hub. This includes research on topics and engaging with relevant role-players to source information.
•   Support the university’s Executive Communication Strategy by producing high-level content such as speeches, articles, and social media content. This includes research on topics, analysis of content relevant content, and engaging with members of the executive committee.
•   Write a broad range of high-quality written materials including feature stories, opinion pieces, research breakthroughs, and digital content for the DCM’s Content Hub. This includes collaboration with faculties and other stakeholders to source content.
•   Craft compelling narratives that reflect the university’s tone and brand voice that will engage a wide range of audiences, from prospective students and alumni to media outlets and public stakeholders.
•   Actively participate in and contribute to the DCM’s Content Hub, curating and optimising content across platforms for cohesive communication. This includes ensuring timely presentation of all content in multimedia formats, enhancing usability across digital, print, and social media platforms.
•   Assist the news editor with Content Hub duties (chairing, news list, publications and platform productions).
•   Assist the Assistant Director: Internal Communication with the production of institutional magazines such as the Bult and Dumela.
•   Conduct regular reviews of institutional content, updating and refining language to reflect the university’s evolving priorities and vision.
•   Provide guidance on writing and editing best practices to the DCM’s Content Hub to ensure quality and consistency across all communication channels.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
•   Serve as a writer for the Vice-Chancellor and Principal and members of the university’s executive management, translating leadership’s vision and ideas into impactful communication according to the university’s Executive Communication Strategy.
•   Work closely with departmental heads, academic leaders, and external partners to develop and refine content that supports the UFS’s goals.
•   Establish strong working relationships with other departments to ensure alignment and to promote cross-functional initiatives.

Project Management and Conceptualising Integrated Communication Campaigns and Projects
•   Oversee and execute the end-to-end management of high-priority campaigns, projects, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with strategic priorities.
•   Draft and execute communication plans for key institutional intergrade communication campaigns and projects.
•   Coordinate the production of visually compelling materials for departmental integrated communication campaigns and projects in cooperation with the Unit for Reputation, Brand, and Marketing Management.
•   Develop timelines and content calendars for major communication initiatives, ensuring alignment with university milestones.

Content Strategy Development
• Develop and execute a strategic content plan for the Department of Communication and Marketing (DCM) in alignment with the DCM’s Communication and Marketing Strategy and the university’s communication goals, vision, and values.
• Ad-hoc support of the university’s media strategy.

Market Research and Benchmarking:
•   Stay informed on industry best practices, higher education trends, and emerging communication platforms to enhance content effectiveness.
•   Conduct research on peer institutions’ communications and adapt innovative strategies that align with UFS’s objectives.
•   Track and analyse content performance metrics, adjusting strategies based on data insights and audience feedback.

Inherent requirements:
•   Bachelor’s degree/BTech/Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7).
•   Minimum of three (3) years’ relevant working experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.
•   Demonstrated and extensive experience in content research and speech writing on an executive level for the higher education or corporate sectors (this experience must be clearly detailed in the CV or supported by attached evidence).

Recommendations:
•   Experience in content research and writing high-quality, impactful content for the higher education sector, including the writing of speeches and opinion articles.
•   Familiarity with multimedia production, including digital content creation.
•   Basic project management skills.
•   Prior experience in public relations, with a focus on institutional communication.
•   Advanced computer skills, especially in MS Word and PowerPoint.
•   Basic photography skills.
•   Valid driver’s license.

Competencies

•   Results Orientated:
–   The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.
–   The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.
•   Strategic Thinking:
–   The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
–   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 maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
–   The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.
•   Building Coalitions:
–   The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
–   The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

Assumption of duties:
As soon as possible.

Closing date:
25 January 2026

Salary:
The salary is available on request.

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 2558 or email ManzanaL@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 7659/9813 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 Policy is available at: EEA13Report_UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE FINAL SEP 2025.pdf

Click here to apply

Senior Officer: Marketing and Communications

Job Title

Senior Officer: Marketing and Communications (post level 9) (Job ID: 6321)

Organizational Unit

University of the Free State -> Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences -> Office of the Dean: Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

Contract Type

Permanent

Occupational Level

Junior Management

Location

Bloemfontein Campus – Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

22/1/2026

Description

•   A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
•   Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
•   A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for 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:

•   Develop, design, and coordinate marketing materials for the faculty’s academic programmes (such as brochures, information guides, faculty videos) and all faculty events, and compile newsletters profiling the faculty’s achievements.
•   Ensure all content aligns with the UFS branding guidelines to promote the faculty’s identity consistently across all platforms.
•   Manage the faculty’s social media channel, Facebook, to create an engaging online presence, profiling all faculty/newsworthy events.
•   Monitor social media analytics, specifically Facebook, to assess engagement and compile a quarterly report of this information for the Faculty Marketing and Communication Committee
•   Attend and actively contribute to the Faculty Marketing & Communication Committee, providing quarterly reports on faculty developments and gathering information from internal and external stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate marketing and communication updates, including quarterly faculty website updates via Sitefinity.
•   Maintain content that is current, relevant, and aligned with UFS’s overall digital strategy.
•   Ensure timely updates regarding faculty staff changes and the content of marketing brochures.
•   Ensure all faculty event content is posted/shared in a timely manner to coincide with the event’s occurrence and maximise relevance and engagement.
•   Develop and execute content strategies for faculty events and recruitment activities, gathering information from faculty staff.
•   Prepare draft media releases on newsworthy faculty events and staff and student achievements for approval by the Department of Communications and Marketing (DCM).
•   Collaborate with external vendors and designers, when required, to develop high-quality visuals and multimedia content.
•   Support and represent the faculty at annual institutional events, specifically career expos and open days.
•   Plan and execute annual institutional events, including career expos and open days, on behalf of the faculty.
•   Plan and coordinate faculty events initiated by the Deanery, coordinating event logistics, from booking venues, procurement, and managing catering to overseeing promotional efforts and post-event follow-ups.
•   Support the planning and execution of departmental events within the faculty across campuses
•   Ensure all events are aligned with faculty goals, enhancing both internal and external stakeholder engagement.
•   Identify and mitigate risks associated with faculty events and marketing initiatives, ensuring compliance with institutional policies through the UFS events committee.
•   Maintain contingency plans for events and address any issues that may arise in real-time, maintaining a smooth flow of operations.
•   Serve as a point of contact between the faculty and relevant stakeholders (internal & external)
•   Foster positive relationships with stakeholders, ensuring faculty projects align with university-wide initiatives and policies.
•   Maintain regular communication with internal and external partners to ensure cohesive project delivery.
•   Support and oversee the planning and execution of events hosted by the Commercio Student Body.
•   Promote undergraduate, postgraduate and Business School formal programmes through various channels, including online platforms, such as Facebook, and career fairs.
•   Organise exhibitions, career expos, and student recruitment events such as “UFS Open Day,” enhancing faculty visibility to prospective students.
•   Collaborate with faculty members to highlight unique aspects of current academic programmes, addressing frequently asked questions and student concerns.
•   Attend scheduled school visits, subject selection evenings, and community events, representing the faculty and informing prospective students about programme offerings, in collaboration with Student Recruitment Services (SRS).
•   Provide guidance on admissions requirements, available programmes, and career opportunities related to the faculty’s programmes to prospective students and parents.
•   Establish relationships with high schools and other feeder institutions through various stakeholders.
•   Support the collection of detailed information through reminding faculty staff to submit information on international collaborations, research partnerships, and other activities for the faculty internationalisation report, through the Internationalisation toolkit.
•   Support faculty student exchange programmes.
•   Represent the faculty on the Internationalisation Coordinators Forum (ICF)
•   Act as a point of contact for international students within the faculty, alongside the International Office, thereby assisting with integration into the academic community.
•   Draft and manage the annual budget for all relevant marketing activities that are related to faculty marketing.
•   Monitor marketing expenditures against marketing budgetary allocations to ensure efficient use of resources for all marketing events and marketing materials that will effectively enhance the visibility of the faculty with a student-centered approach.
•   Manage the allocated marketing budget effectively by prioritising in-house faculty and UFS resources before engaging external vendors, and coordinate with external suppliers for marketing materials and event equipment only when internal options are unavailable

Inherent requirements:
• Relevant Bachelor’s degree or an advanced diploma/BTech degree/postgraduate certificate on NQF Level 7 in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or related field.
• Minimum of 2 years’ relevant work experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.

Recommendations:
•   An Honours degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field
•   Evidence of successful social media marketing experience.
•   Experience within the higher-education environment.
•   Knowledge of university systems, policies, procedures.
•   Member of or registration with a professional body (i.e MASA, PRISA)(attach a copy)

Competencies

Required competencies:
•   Results Orientated:
–   The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and to work to achieve success.
–   The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.
•   Strategic Thinking:
–   The ability to plan work and to follow plans.
–   The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.
•   Business Acumen:
–   The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
–   Proficient in using MS Office.
–   Strong communication skills.
–   Proficient in using digital marketing tools.
–   Proficient in using graphic design software (e.g. Canva).
•   Leading:
–   The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
–   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 be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.

Assumption of duties:
1 April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter

Closing date:
22 January 2026

Salary:
The salary is available on request.

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 2558 or email ManzanaL@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2876/ 2979 / 7659 for assistance.

Click here to apply

We wish you all the best with your applications

Share this post on

Facebook X LinkedIn

Vacancies with Collen

A trusted website that shares verified vacancies

Share this post on

Intern (2 Positions) (Contract appointment: 12 months)

Click here to apply

Senior Lecturer: Department of Political Studies and Governance

Click here to apply

Assistant Officer: Technical Support Agent

Click here to apply

Assistant Director: Investigations Services

Click here to apply

Traffic Officer

Click here to apply

Chief Officer: Specialist Writer

Click here to apply

Senior Officer: Marketing and Communications

Click here to apply

Share this post on

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply