The University of Johannesburg invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for General Cleaner and General Assistant I: Gardener vacancies based at the Soweto Campus Devland. These permanent positions form part of the Facilities Management Division and offer an opportunity for individuals with cleaning or gardening experience to work within one of South Africa’s leading higher education institutions.
Applications are open for candidates who meet the minimum requirements and reside in Devland. The closing date for applications is 5 June 2026. Both positions provide an opportunity to contribute to maintaining a safe, clean, and professional university environment while building valuable work experience in the education sector.
Positions Available at the University of Johannesburg
1. General Cleaner (P17) – Facilities Management Division: Cleaning, General Work & Waste Management
- Reference Number: uj_002367
- Number of Posts: X2
- Job Type: Permanent
- Campus: Soweto Campus Devland
- Industry: Education & Training
- Closing Date: 5 June 2026
2. General Assistant I: Gardener (P15) – Facilities Management Division: Gardens & Grounds
- Reference Number: uj_002366
- Job Type: Permanent
- Campus: Soweto Campus Devland
- Industry: Education & Training
- Closing Date: 5 June 2026
General Cleaner Vacancies at University of Johannesburg
The University of Johannesburg is recruiting two General Cleaners under the Facilities Management Division: Cleaning, General Work and Waste Management. The positions are permanent and based at the Soweto Campus Devland.
The institution is guided by the UJ Strategy 2035, focusing on sustainability, innovation, global partnerships, and societal impact. The university aims to transform and serve humanity through the collaborative pursuit of knowledge while maintaining a sustainable future for students and communities.
Duties and Responsibilities for General Cleaner Posts
Successful candidates will be responsible for a wide range of cleaning and waste management duties to ensure the campus environment remains hygienic and professional. Responsibilities include:
- Sweeping floors using brushes and dust control mops
- Mopping floors using wet and damp mops
- Vacuuming carpeted areas and spot-cleaning carpets
- Using electrically powered scrubbing and polishing machines after receiving training
- Dusting and wiping furniture, cupboards, ledges, and windowsills
- Emptying waste bins and transporting waste to collection points
- Replenishing consumable items such as soap, toilet paper, and paper towels
- Cleaning toilets, urinals, hand basins, sinks, showers, and drinking fountains
- Correctly mixing and using cleaning chemicals
- Conducting wall washing and inside windowpane cleaning
- Maintaining accountability and responsibility in daily cleaning duties
The role also includes following health and safety procedures, reporting faulty equipment, ensuring proper communication with supervisors, and maintaining professional customer service standards across campus facilities.
Minimum Requirements for General Cleaner Vacancies
Applicants interested in the cleaner posts must meet the following requirements:
- Grade 10 qualification
- Vocational Certificate (NQF Level 1)
- Relevant cleaning experience
- Proof of residence in Devland upon request
Recommended Qualifications and Skills
The university recommends candidates with:
- Knowledge of basic cleaning procedures
- At least one year of cleaning experience
- Grade 12 or NQF Level 4 qualification
- Good communication skills
- Basic reading and writing skills
- Ability to work independently
- Customer service skills
- Reliability and punctuality
- Ability to follow instructions and work under pressure
Working Conditions
The position may require long working hours or night shifts depending on operational needs and work allocation. Candidates should therefore be willing to work flexible schedules when necessary.
General Assistant I: Gardener Vacancies at University of Johannesburg
The University of Johannesburg is also recruiting General Assistant I: Gardener employees within the Facilities Management Division: Gardens and Grounds. These permanent positions are also based at the Soweto Campus Devland.
The gardening division focuses on maintaining campus grounds, sports fields, parking areas, tennis courts, and water fountains. The role includes irrigation, pest control, maintenance of gardening equipment, and ensuring that campus outdoor spaces remain attractive and functional.
Duties and Responsibilities for Gardener Vacancies
Successful applicants will perform several gardening and grounds maintenance duties, including:
- Weeding using hand tools
- Digging holes and planting trees or shrubs
- Watering gardens and sports fields
- Applying fertilizers and top dressing
- Spraying insecticides and weed killers
- Pruning plants and shrubs
- Loading and unloading garden refuse and compost
- Safely handling pesticides and toxic substances
- Cleaning workspaces and equipment
- Maintaining good housekeeping standards
- Wearing protective clothing and safety equipment
The position also requires compliance with university health and safety regulations and adherence to all university policies and procedures.
Minimum Requirements for Gardener Posts
Applicants must have:
- Grade 10 qualification (NQF Level 2)
- At least one year of gardening and grounds experience
- Proof of residence in Devland upon request
Recommended Qualifications and Competencies
Candidates with the following additional qualifications and skills may have an advantage:
- Valid Code 8 driver’s licence
- Knowledge of basic gardening
- Grade 12 or NQF Level 4 qualification
- Lawn mowing skills
- Knowledge of irrigation systems
- Knowledge of soil fertilisation and pruning
- Ability to work under pressure
- Ability to work weekends and after hours
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Reliability and punctuality
The role involves physical work such as walking on uneven surfaces, bending, lifting heavy items, and working outdoors in different weather conditions. Exposure to chemicals and electrical hazards may occur, requiring adherence to safety precautions and use of protective equipment.
Equal Employment Opportunities at UJ
The University of Johannesburg remains committed to equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and individuals from historically disadvantaged groups. Recruitment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, and proven achievements while ensuring compliance with operational requirements.
The university also conducts screening against the National Register for Sex Offenders in accordance with amendments to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 2021. The outcome of these assessments may influence employment decisions.
Documents Required for Applications
Applicants are required to upload the following documents before the closing date:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Names and contact details of at least three referees
- Copy of highest academic qualification
- Proof of registration with professional bodies where applicable
- Additional academic or creative portfolios where required
Candidates may also be subjected to psychometric testing and other selection procedures during the recruitment process.
Closing Date
The closing date for both the General Cleaner and General Assistant I: Gardener vacancies is 5 June 2026. Late applications may not be considered.
Why Job Seekers Should Apply
These vacancies provide an opportunity for job seekers with Grade 10 qualifications and relevant experience to secure permanent employment within a respected South African university. Candidates looking to build stable careers in cleaning services, facilities management, gardening, or grounds maintenance may benefit from the experience and exposure offered by the University of Johannesburg.
The positions are particularly suitable for individuals residing in Devland who are seeking long-term employment opportunities within the education and public sector environment. The university offers a professional workplace focused on service excellence, teamwork, safety, and community impact.
Applicants who are physically fit, hardworking, reliable, and committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness or gardening services are encouraged to apply before the closing date.