Readvertisment: Gardener (4 positions)

Rhodes University; Makhanda; On-site; ZAR 139 000 - 212 000; Full time

Job summary

A major educational institution in Makhanda is seeking a Gardener (Grade 3) to maintain the beauty of the campus. You will be responsible for gardening services including sweeping, pruning, and maintaining flower beds. The role requires a Grade 10 qualification and at least 6 months of applicable experience. This permanent position offers a competitive salary and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. Complete applications must be submitted by the specified deadline to be considered.

Qualifications

• Grade 10 or equivalent required for the role.
• At least 6 months of relevant gardening experience.
• Ability to maintain gardens and provide gardening services.

Responsibilities

• Provide gardening and related services to maintain an aesthetically pleasing campus.
• Sweep streets and entrances, maintain flower beds, and prune plants.

Skills

Previous gardening experience

Education

Grade 10 or equivalent

Job description

Gardener (Grade 3)

Grounds and Gardens invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Main Objectives

Provide gardening and related services to the university so as to ensure an aesthetically pleasing, well‑maintained campus. Sweep streets and in front of entrances. Maintain beds, clean refuse from beds, prune and plan shrubs and flowers.

The Requirements

Grade 10 or equivalent plus at least 6 months relevant experience where such experience includes:

• Previous gardening experience

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The Following Documents Are Required

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following:
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A motivation letter outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that no hand‑written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact 046 603 8753.

Selection Process (provisional Date, Subject To Change)

• Short‑listing meeting: TBC
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the assessment and interview date.

Remuneration Per Annum (Grade 3)

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R139 573

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R211 460

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed‑term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date

10 December 2025. This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence

Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These Values Are

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.