Investigating Officer- University of the Free State x1
Job Details
- Job Title: Investigating Officer
- Job ID: 6597
- Reference: 2277
- Organisation: University of the Free State
- Department: Protection Services
- Location: Qwaqwa Campus, Qwaqwa, Free State
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Occupational Level: Semi-Skilled
- Salary: R464,881.91 – R585,070.51 per annum, including benefits
- Assumption of Duty: 1 December 2026
- Closing Date: 15 September 2026
Job Overview
The Investigating Officer will be responsible for conducting investigations into reported crimes and incidents occurring on and off campus, managing investigation dockets, gathering and analysing crime intelligence, and preparing investigation reports.
The successful candidate will work closely with UFS management, students, student bodies and SAPS investigators while identifying potential security threats and supporting crime prevention and awareness initiatives across the university.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Opening dockets and enquiries relating to reported incidents and crimes.
- Conducting investigations into on- and off-campus crimes and incidents.
- Opening enquiries for off-campus incidents and arranging appropriate assistance for students.
- Interviewing suspects and victims in accordance with Protection Services investigation guidelines.
- Submitting completed dockets and enquiries to the Line Manager.
- Reporting serious incidents, including murder and death threats, to the Line Manager.
- Compiling investigation reports after investigations are concluded.
- Preparing investigation reports on serious cases for submission to the Executive Management Committee.
- Liaising with SAPS investigators and detectives regarding cases involving UFS staff and students.
- Building effective working relationships with student bodies concerning investigations and reported incidents.
- Supporting Operational Security with security and crime-awareness campaigns.
- Identifying issues that can be addressed through awareness campaigns, including GBV, substance abuse and safety campaigns.
- Recruiting and managing informers.
- Collecting and sharing information about planned crimes and stability issues that may affect the university.
- Identifying actual and perceived threats through crime and stability intelligence.
- Providing relevant information to Line Management to support security countermeasures.
- Determining crime patterns using available intelligence sources and SAPS information.
- Collecting and analysing weekly and monthly crime statistics from SAPS.
- Representing Protection Services during awareness sessions for new students.
- Ensuring crime-related information is captured and accessible through the CiiMS Platform.
- Ensuring serious incident and crime reports are submitted to Line Management for approval.
- Capturing reported incidents on CiiMS and escalating matters for investigation where necessary.
- Maintaining accurate offender and alleged-offender profiles and linking them to relevant cases.
- Ensuring investigation dockets are closed and the relevant systems are updated.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following inherent requirements:
- A three-year National Diploma on NQF Level 6 in Forensic Investigation, Policing, Security Management or a closely related field.
- A valid South African driver’s licence.
- At least three years’ experience in an investigation environment.
- A valid Grade B PSIRA Certificate, or willingness to obtain the certificate at your own cost within six months of employment.
Recommended Requirements
The following will be advantageous:
- Experience working in a higher education environment.
- Formal training in criminal investigation.
- Formal training in a crime intelligence environment.
Applicants should attach proof of relevant training where applicable.
Required Competencies
Results Orientated
- Ability to remain committed to tasks and overcome obstacles.
- Reliable, responsible and dependable approach to work.
Strategic Thinking
- Strong attention to detail and an organised approach to work.
- Ability to analyse information and use logic to resolve problems.
Business Acumen
- Ability to adhere to rules, regulations and established procedures.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leading
- Ability to maintain high levels of motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- Ability to cooperate with colleagues and encourage teamwork.
Building Coalitions
- Confidence when interacting with people from different backgrounds and situations.
- Ability to establish and maintain positive professional relationships.
Salary and Benefits
The annual remuneration package is R464,881.91 – R585,070.51, including benefits. The final remuneration will depend on factors such as the available budget, relevant experience and qualifications.
Fringe benefits, subject to applicable conditions, include:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits