Communications Officer (Post Level 11)
- Employer: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Department: Communication and Marketing
- Organisational Unit: Vice-Chancellor and Principal → Advancement
- Job ID: 6538
- Contract Type: 3-Year Contract Appointment
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Closing Date: 27 July 2026
- Salary: R464 881.91 – R585 070.51 per annum, including benefits
- Assumption of Duty: As soon as possible
Job Overview
The University of the Free State is seeking a Communications Officer to develop, write, edit and curate high-quality communication content for institutional platforms.
The successful candidate will translate complex academic, research and institutional information into engaging, audience-focused content while supporting institutional storytelling, Content Hub initiatives, stakeholder engagement and integrated communication campaigns.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, write, edit and curate communication content for institutional platforms.
- Translate complex academic, research and institutional information into engaging content.
- Identify, source and coordinate institutional stories and content.
- Collaborate with faculties, departments, centres, institutes and support divisions.
- Support Content Hub initiatives and stakeholder engagement.
- Develop campaign messaging and written communication materials.
- Coordinate content production with internal and external stakeholders.
- Support the amplification and evaluation of campaign content.
- Contribute to communication initiatives aligned with institutional priorities.
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent NQF Level 7 qualification in:
- Journalism
- Media Studies
- Communication
- Corporate Communication
- Public Relations
- Strategic Communication
- or a related field.
- At least 2 years’ relevant experience in corporate communications, media, journalism, public relations or content development.
Recommended Experience
- Experience in higher education communication, journalism, media, marketing or public relations.
- Experience developing content for institutional communication platforms.
- Experience supporting communication campaigns and stakeholder engagement.
- Understanding of Content Hub or editorial content models.
- Experience using content management systems and digital publishing platforms.
- Experience in photography, videography or multimedia storytelling.
- A valid driver’s licence.
Key Competencies
- Results-oriented and adaptable.
- Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
- Creative and open-minded approach to work.
- Proficient in MS Office.
- Ability to lead and provide direction.
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
- Confident and comfortable interacting with people.
- Ability to make decisions through consultation and collaboration.
Benefits
Subject to specific conditions, benefits may include:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits