Gardening Site Manager- University of the Free State x1
- Position: Gardening Site Manager
- Department: University Estates, Facilities Management
- Institution: University of the Free State
- Campus: QwaQwa Campus, Free State
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Occupational Level: Semi-Skilled
- Starting Date: 01 August 2026
- Closing Date: 02 July 2026
Purpose of the Role
The Gardening Site Manager is responsible for supervising gardening staff, coordinating grounds maintenance activities, monitoring work quality, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, and maintaining the university’s gardens and outdoor facilities. The role combines hands-on gardening responsibilities with team leadership and operational oversight.
Key Responsibilities
Staff Supervision and Team Management
- Supervise and monitor gardening personnel.
- Allocate daily work and monitor progress.
- Ensure work schedules and maintenance programmes are completed.
- Assist staff in resolving operational issues.
- Provide guidance and direction to team members.
- Report staff and operational matters to management.
Grounds and Garden Maintenance
- Ensure gardens, lawns, and outdoor areas are maintained to required standards.
- Assist with general grounds maintenance activities.
- Support refuse removal and campus cleanliness initiatives.
- Monitor the quality of gardening and landscaping work.
Quality Control
- Inspect completed work.
- Sign off on completed maintenance programmes.
- Ensure inspection standards and quality requirements are met.
- Monitor compliance with established procedures.
Equipment and Resource Management
- Ensure proper use of gardening equipment and tools.
- Monitor maintenance and care of machinery.
- Report damaged or faulty equipment.
- Ensure efficient utilisation of resources.
Transport and Logistics
- Transport staff, gardening equipment, and materials when required.
- Ensure safe transportation practices are followed.
Health and Safety Compliance
- Enforce PPE requirements.
- Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.
- Promote safe working practices.
- Monitor adherence to workplace procedures.
Reporting and Administration
- Compile operational progress reports.
- Communicate challenges and maintenance requirements to management.
- Complete administrative tasks associated with site management.
- Perform ad hoc duties assigned by management.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must possess:
- Grade 12 or National Vocational Certificate (NQF Level 4).
- Valid Code EB/B Driver’s Licence.
- At least one year of relevant experience related to gardening supervision, grounds maintenance, or landscaping operations.
Preferred Qualifications and Experience
The following would strengthen an application:
- Experience supervising gardening or grounds maintenance teams.
- Experience allocating work and monitoring staff performance.
- Sound knowledge of landscaping and gardening practices.
- Experience operating and maintaining gardening machinery and equipment.
- Familiarity with health and safety requirements in outdoor maintenance environments.
Required Competencies
Leadership
- Ability to supervise and direct staff.
- Team-building and motivation skills.
- Ability to take charge and make decisions.
Results Orientation
- Reliability and accountability.
- Ability to complete tasks and meet deadlines.
- Commitment to achieving operational objectives.
Planning and Organisation
- Strong attention to detail.
- Ability to organise and coordinate work activities.
- Ability to follow maintenance schedules and plans.
Business Acumen
- Compliance with policies and procedures.
- Basic administrative skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Interpersonal Skills
- Ability to build positive relationships.
- Good communication skills.
- Sensitivity to the needs of others.
Salary and Benefits
Salary Package
R307,639.50 – R387,404.25 per annum
(The final package depends on qualifications, experience, and budget availability.)
Benefits
Subject to applicable conditions:
- Pension Fund
- Medical Aid
- Group Life Insurance
- Housing Allowance
- Annual Leave and Sick Leave
- Service Bonus
- Study Benefits