University of Free State
The University of the Free State (UFS), a prestigious South African institution, offers diverse career opportunities in academic, administrative, and support services. For non-academic roles like drivers, cleaners, or coordinators, UFS provides rewarding opportunities with competitive salaries and benefits, essential for supporting staff, students, and overall campus operations.
In this job post, we will provide an overview of driver, cleaner, and coordinator careers at UFS, including salary expectations, requirements, and how to apply.
Overview of Driver, Cleaner, and Coordinator Jobs at UFS
At UFS, drivers, cleaners, and coordinators play vital roles in ensuring the campus operates efficiently. Each role has specific responsibilities that contribute to the daily functioning of the university.
- Drivers: Responsible for transporting staff, students, and materials around the campus or to external locations. This may include driving university vehicles, maintaining vehicle logs, and ensuring the safety of passengers.
- Cleaners: Ensure that university buildings, offices, lecture halls, and other facilities are kept clean, sanitary, and well-maintained. This includes sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and waste disposal.
- Coordinators: Oversee specific operations within the university, such as event planning, academic support, logistics, or departmental coordination. Coordinators often manage schedules, teams, and resources to ensure that activities run smoothly.
Salaries for Driver, Cleaner, and Coordinator Jobs at UFS
The salaries for non-academic roles at UFS vary based on the job type, level of experience, and responsibilities.
Below is a general overview of the typical salary ranges for these positions:
Driver
- Average Salary: ZAR 150,000 to ZAR 250,000 per year.
- Factors Influencing Salary: Experience, type of vehicle driven, and additional responsibilities such as maintenance or logistics duties.
Cleaner
- Average Salary: ZAR 80,000 to ZAR 150,000 per year.
- Factors Influencing Salary: Experience, scope of cleaning duties, and work location (e.g., office buildings, student residences, or labs).
Coordinator
- Average Salary: ZAR 300,000 to ZAR 500,000 per year.
- Factors Influencing Salary: Type of coordination (e.g., event, logistics, academic) and experience in managing teams or projects.
Requirements for Driver, Cleaner, and Coordinator Jobs at UFS
For Drivers
- Educational Requirements:
- A Matric (Grade 12) certificate is typically required.
- Licensing:
- A valid Code 8/10/14 driver’s license (depending on the vehicle type) is mandatory.
- Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) may be required for transporting passengers or heavy loads.
- Experience:
- Previous driving experience, especially in a professional or corporate environment, is an advantage.
- Knowledge of vehicle maintenance and basic repairs can be beneficial.
- Skills:
- Excellent driving skills, punctuality, and a strong sense of responsibility. Knowledge of local routes and traffic laws is essential.
For Cleaners
- Educational Requirements:
- While formal education is not always required, a Matric (Grade 12) certificate may be preferred.
- Experience:
- Previous experience in cleaning or janitorial services is advantageous.
- Knowledge of cleaning chemicals and equipment is beneficial.
- Skills:
- Attention to detail, time management, and reliability. Ability to work independently and efficiently in a team environment is important.
For Coordinators
- Educational Requirements:
- A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business, Event Management, Administration) is typically required for coordinator roles.
- Experience:
- 2-5 years of experience in a similar role (e.g., project management, event coordination, or academic support) is required.
- Proven experience in managing teams, schedules, and resources.
- Skills:
- Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills. Proficiency in office software (e.g., Microsoft Office) and project management tools is essential.
How to Apply for Driver, Cleaner, and Coordinator Jobs at UFS
Step 1: Visit the UFS Careers Portal
- Start by visiting the University of the Free State Careers Portal: https://www.ufs.ac.za.
- Use the job search feature to find positions related to drivers, cleaners, or coordinators.
Step 2: Select a Suitable Job
- Browse the available positions and select the role that matches your qualifications and experience. Review the job description and requirements carefully.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Documents
- Resume: Create a detailed resume that highlights your relevant experience, skills, and certifications (e.g., driver’s license, PrDP, or qualifications for coordinators).
- Cover Letter: Write a cover letter explaining your interest in the position and how your experience aligns with the job requirements.
- Additional Documents: Include copies of any relevant certifications (e.g., driver’s license, PrDP, educational qualifications).
Step 4: Submit Your Application
- Submit your application through the UFS careers portal. Ensure that all documents are correctly uploaded and formatted according to the requirements specified in the job posting.
Step 5: Prepare for the Interview
- If your application is successful, you may be invited for an interview. For driver positions, you may need to demonstrate your driving skills, while cleaners may be asked about their experience with cleaning equipment. Coordinators will likely face questions related to project management and organizational skills.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired
- Tailor Your Resume: Ensure that your resume and cover letter highlight your most relevant skills and experience for the specific job you are applying for. Include any certifications, such as a driver’s license or project management qualifications, that demonstrate your suitability for the role.
- Gain Relevant Experience: For driver and cleaner roles, gaining experience in a similar environment (e.g., corporate offices, schools, or public institutions) will make your application stand out. For coordinator roles, experience in managing events, projects, or academic operations will be beneficial.
- Focus on Skills: Emphasize key skills such as time management, organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently. For coordinators, leadership and multitasking abilities are critical.
- Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your past experience in detail. For coordinators, expect questions on how you’ve managed teams, budgets, or projects. Drivers may be asked about their driving record, while cleaners should be prepared to talk about their cleaning techniques and experience.
Final Thoughts & Mode of Application
The University of the Free State offers rewarding career opportunities for drivers, cleaners, and coordinators. These roles are essential to the university’s daily operations, supporting staff, students, and campus facilities. By meeting job requirements and submitting a strong application, you can begin a fulfilling career at UFS.