Wits Health Consortium invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Driver (Sessional) through its Vacancies and Infectious Diseases Analytics division, commonly known as WITS VIDA. Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand. This opportunity is based at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and forms part of the VIDA operations department. Job seekers with a valid driver’s license and a strong sense of responsibility on the road are encouraged to review the requirements below before submitting an application.
The position is suitable for candidates who are reliable, responsible, and committed to providing safe transport services while supporting healthcare operations. Applicants with a passion for working in a professional healthcare environment and maintaining high safety standards are encouraged to apply.
Wits Health Consortium is a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand and supports various health research and healthcare programmes across South Africa. The Driver (Sessional) position plays an important role in ensuring that patients, staff, documents, and equipment are transported safely and efficiently.
Job Summary
- Position: Driver (Sessional)
- Division: Vaccines & Infectious Diseases Analytics (VIDA)
- Job Type: Sessional
- Location: Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital
- Reference Number: Driver-VIDA
- Closing Date: 21 July 2026
About the Position
The successful candidate will support the VIDA operations department by providing safe and reliable transportation services. Daily responsibilities include transporting patients, staff, documents, and goods while ensuring company vehicles remain clean, roadworthy, and properly maintained.
The position requires someone who understands road safety, follows transport schedules, completes vehicle records accurately, and maintains a professional attitude throughout every journey.
Working in a healthcare environment means that punctuality, responsibility, and attention to safety are essential. The successful applicant must also be willing to assist with additional administrative and maintenance duties whenever required.
Key Responsibilities
The Driver (Sessional) will be expected to perform a variety of important duties, including:
- Keep assigned vehicles clean and in good working condition.
- Conduct daily vehicle inspections before and after trips.
- Report vehicle faults, repairs, damages, or accidents immediately.
- Assist with identifying faults on other departmental vehicles.
- Follow daily transport schedules provided by management.
- Complete vehicle logbooks and all required transport documentation.
- Transport patients safely to healthcare facilities and other approved destinations.
- Drive staff members during official home visits and field activities.
- Collect and deliver documents, parcels, laboratory items, and equipment safely.
- Obey all South African road traffic laws and regulations.
- Practice safe and defensive driving at all times.
- Assist with general administrative duties when required.
- Perform maintenance-related tasks assigned by management.
- Ensure vehicles are always fuelled and ready for official use.
- Maintain professionalism while interacting with patients, staff, and visitors.
- Protect company property and ensure vehicles are used responsibly.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements before applying:
- Grade 12 (Matric) certificate.
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills.
- Valid South African driver’s license (Code 08 or Code 10).
- At least one year of professional driving experience.
Candidates who do not meet the minimum requirements may not be considered during the recruitment process.
Advantageous Qualifications
Although not compulsory, the following qualifications and experience will strengthen an application:
- Professional Driving Permit (PrDP).
- Advanced driving certification.
- IATA certification.
- Experience working in hospitals, healthcare facilities, or research organisations.
- Knowledge of transporting medical supplies or laboratory materials.
- Experience completing vehicle inspection reports and transport records.
Skills and Personal Attributes
The ideal candidate should demonstrate the following qualities:
- Excellent driving skills.
- Strong understanding of road safety regulations.
- Good communication skills.
- Ability to work independently.
- Professional attitude.
- Positive work ethic.
- Honest and trustworthy.
- High level of integrity.
- Customer-focused approach.
- Good interpersonal skills.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Strong organisational skills.
- Reliable and dependable.
- Good time management.
- Excellent sense of direction.
- Problem-solving ability.
- Flexibility to perform different duties when required.
Working Conditions
This position may require flexibility depending on operational needs.
Applicants should be willing to:
- Travel when necessary.
- Work overtime.
- Work weekends when required.
- Perform duties outside normal working hours.
- Respond professionally during emergency situations involving vehicles.
- Maintain excellent attendance and punctuality.
The successful candidate should also know how to respond appropriately during vehicle breakdowns, accidents, hijacking incidents, or other transport-related emergencies while following organisational procedures.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
Working at Wits Health Consortium provides valuable experience within one of South Africa’s respected health research organisations. The Driver (Sessional) position offers an opportunity to contribute to healthcare services while supporting research activities that benefit communities across the country.
The role allows drivers to gain experience working alongside healthcare professionals, researchers, and operational teams in a structured working environment.
Individuals who enjoy driving responsibly, assisting people, and working in healthcare support services may find this position rewarding.
Important Qualities for Success
Successful drivers in healthcare environments are expected to:
- Respect patient confidentiality.
- Treat passengers courteously.
- Follow organisational procedures.
- Keep accurate transport records.
- Drive responsibly in all weather conditions.
- Maintain vehicle cleanliness.
- Report problems immediately.
- Follow instructions from supervisors.
- Represent the organisation professionally.
These qualities contribute to safe transportation services and efficient daily operations.
Employment Equity
Wits Health Consortium is committed to Employment Equity. Preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups in accordance with the Employment Equity Act, 55 of 1998, and its subsequent amendments.
All appointments will be made in line with organisational employment equity objectives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications by email before the closing date.
Applications must include:
- A cover letter (maximum one page) clearly stating the position being applied for.
- A detailed and updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Email Subject Line: Driver (Sessional)
Applicants should ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete before submitting the application.
Selection Process
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
If no communication has been received within two weeks after the closing date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful.
Shortlisted applicants may be required to participate in interviews, reference checks, qualification verification, and any additional recruitment processes determined by the employer.
The closing date for applications is 21 July 2026.
Applications received after the closing date may not be considered, so early submission is encouraged to avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
The Driver (Sessional) vacancy at Wits Health Consortium presents an excellent opportunity for experienced drivers seeking employment within South Africa’s healthcare and research sector. Candidates with a valid driver’s license, Grade 12 qualification, and at least one year of driving experience are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline.
This role is ideal for responsible individuals who value safety, professionalism, punctuality, and excellent customer service. If the minimum requirements are met and there is a commitment to supporting healthcare operations through reliable transportation services, this opportunity could be an excellent next career step.