Rhodes University is inviting applications from suitably qualified and experienced individuals for three Campus Guard positions within the Facilities and Infrastructure Division. The successful candidates will join the Campus Protection Unit, which is responsible for protecting university property, safeguarding staff and students, and maintaining a safe and secure environment for the university community.
The Campus Guard vacancies are suitable for candidates who have a Grade 12 certificate, at least one year of relevant experience, and a valid Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) Grade C registration. Applicants must also meet the university’s additional security, documentation, and application requirements.
The positions are based in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, and are advertised as permanent appointments. However, Rhodes University reserves the right to appoint candidates on a fixed-term contract of at least three years. Only applicants who reside in the Eastern Cape will be considered.
Applications close on 28 October 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit complete applications as early as possible because the advertisement may close before the stated deadline if a high number of applications is received.
Rhodes University Campus Guard Vacancies 2026: Overview
- Job Title: Campus Guard
- Number of Positions: 3
- Division: Facilities and Infrastructure
- Department/Unit: Campus Protection Unit
- Job Grade: Grade 5
- Industry: Higher Education
- Job Level: Entry Level
- Location: Makhanda, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Employment Type: Permanent, with the possibility of a fixed-term contract of at least three years
- Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 (Matric)
- Minimum Experience: At least one year of relevant experience
- Required Security Registration: PSIRA Grade C
- Closing Date: 28 October 2026
- Annual Basic Pensionable Salary: R191,212
- Approximate Annual Cost to Company: R278,869
About the Campus Guard Positions
Rhodes University’s Campus Protection Unit is responsible for providing security services across the university environment. The unit plays an important role in protecting university buildings, equipment, assets, employees, students, visitors, and other stakeholders.
Campus Guards are expected to help prevent security incidents, monitor university premises, report suspicious activities, and contribute to maintaining a safe environment for teaching, learning, research, administration, and other university activities.
The successful candidates must demonstrate professionalism, reliability, alertness, and the ability to carry out security duties in accordance with university procedures and applicable security regulations.
These vacancies offer an opportunity for suitably qualified security officers to work within a higher education institution and contribute to the protection of a university campus.
Key Responsibilities
Although applicants should consult the official job profile for the complete duties and responsibilities, the advertised main objectives of the position include providing a comprehensive security service and protecting university property, staff, students, and other stakeholders.
The main responsibilities are expected to focus on the following areas:
- Protect university property, buildings, equipment, and other assets against theft, damage, unauthorised access, and security threats.
- Help maintain a safe and secure environment for students, university employees, visitors, contractors, and other stakeholders.
- Monitor university premises and remain alert to suspicious activities, potential risks, and security incidents.
- Report incidents, security concerns, and unusual occurrences to the appropriate supervisors or university officials.
- Support the implementation of campus security procedures and operational requirements.
- Carry out assigned security duties professionally and responsibly.
- Assist in maintaining order and promoting safety within the university environment.
Applicants should review the official job profile carefully to understand the full scope of the position before submitting an application.
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must meet the minimum requirements set by Rhodes University to be considered for these Campus Guard vacancies.
1. Grade 12 Certificate
Applicants must have successfully completed Grade 12 (Matric). A certified copy of the Matric certificate must be included with the application.
2. Relevant Work Experience
A minimum of one year of relevant experience is required. Previous security experience is specifically identified as relevant experience.
Applicants with experience in guarding, access control, campus security, property protection, incident reporting, or related security duties may find their experience relevant to the position, provided it meets the employer’s requirements.
Previous experience working at a university or college campus will be an advantage.
3. PSIRA Grade C Registration
Applicants must be registered as Security Officer Grade C in accordance with the Private Security Industry Regulation Act, 2001 (Act No. 56 of 2001).
A certified copy of the PSIRA certificate must be submitted with the application. Candidates should ensure that their registration documentation is available and meets the employer’s requirements.
4. Criminal Record Requirements
Candidates must have no previous criminal convictions.
Successful candidates must also be able to produce a Police Clearance Certificate that is no more than two months old before the appointment date.
Applicants should take note of this requirement and ensure that they can obtain the necessary police clearance documentation within the required timeframe.
5. Special Events Certification
Special Events certification will be an advantage. Applicants who possess this certification should include the relevant supporting documentation where applicable.
6. Valid Driver’s Licence
A valid driver’s licence will be an advantage. Candidates who have a valid licence should ensure that this information is clearly reflected in their CV.
7. Residency Requirement
Only applicants who reside in the Eastern Cape will be considered for these vacancies.
Candidates should ensure that their current residential location is clearly stated in their CV and application information.
Documents Required for Application
Rhodes University has specified that applicants must submit all relevant documentation through its online recruitment system. Incomplete applications or failure to respond appropriately to application questions may result in disqualification.
The required documents include:
- A comprehensive and updated CV.
- Certified copies of relevant qualifications.
- A certified Grade 12 or Matric certificate.
- A certified PSIRA Grade C certificate.
- A separate motivation letter explaining the applicant’s interest in the position and suitability for the role.
- Contactable referees who are or were the applicant’s direct line managers.
The CV must include reasons for leaving current and previous employment, where applicable.
Reference details must include the referee’s title, full name, designation, contact number, and email address. Applicants should ensure that their referees are appropriate professional references and that their contact information is accurate.
The motivation letter must be uploaded as a separate document under the additional document section of the application process.
Handwritten applications will not be considered.
How to Apply for Rhodes University Campus Guard Jobs
Interested candidates must apply through the official Rhodes University website and online recruitment system.
Application steps:
- Read the official Campus Guard job profile carefully.
- Prepare an updated CV containing relevant security experience, qualifications, employment history, and reasons for leaving previous positions.
- Obtain certified copies of the Matric certificate and PSIRA Grade C certificate.
- Prepare a separate motivation letter explaining the interest in the position and suitability for the role.
- Include the required contact details for direct line manager referees.
- Complete the online application and answer all questions accurately.
- Upload all required supporting documents in the appropriate sections.
- Submit the application before the closing date of 28 October 2026.
For enquiries regarding the submission of an application, contact the Human Resources Recruitment team at [email protected].
Applicants should retain a copy of their submitted application and supporting documents for their records.
Salary and Benefits
The advertised remuneration for the Campus Guard position is based on Grade 5.
The annual basic pensionable salary is R191,212, while the approximate annual cost to company is R278,869.
The basic pensionable salary represents the stated annual salary amount, while the cost to company is an approximate overall employment cost. Applicants should consult the university’s recruitment information for clarification regarding the applicable remuneration structure and employment benefits.
The post is advertised as permanent. However, Rhodes University may choose to appoint a successful candidate on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years.
Selection Process
The selection process may include an assessment and/or presentation, followed by an interview. Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the assessment and interview dates.
The shortlisting meeting date has not yet been confirmed and is listed as to be confirmed.
Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an interview, and the university reserves the right not to fill the vacancies.
Candidates who are not contacted within 30 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Important Information for Applicants
Before applying, candidates should confirm that they meet the minimum qualifications, relevant experience requirements, PSIRA registration requirements, and Eastern Cape residency condition.
It is particularly important to submit a comprehensive CV, certified supporting documents, a separate motivation letter, and complete referee details. Failure to provide the requested documentation or answer the application questions appropriately may result in disqualification.
Rhodes University encourages applications from South African members of underrepresented designated groups and persons with disabilities. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply. Appointments are made in accordance with applicable employment legislation and the university’s recruitment and selection policies.
The closing date for the three Campus Guard positions at Rhodes University is 28 October 2026.
Eligible candidates residing in the Eastern Cape who meet the Matric, experience, and PSIRA Grade C requirements are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Apply through the official Rhodes University online recruitment system and consult the job profile before submitting your application.