Professional Optometrist Contract (2 Years)
Position Overview
- Job Title: Professional Optometrist (20 hours per week)
- Number of Positions: 5
- Type of Appointment: Contract (2 Years)
- Institution: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
- Job ID: 62
- Closing Date: 16 November 2025
- Assumption of Duty: 1 January 2026
- Salary: On request (with fringe benefits)
Purpose of the Position
To support the training and clinical supervision of Optometry students at UFS through direct involvement in practical, clinical, and research activities. This role ensures that students receive high-quality hands-on training and mentorship to develop their professional and clinical competencies.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
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Clinical Training & Supervision:
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Supervise and assess students during clinical Optometry sessions.
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Guide students in practical skills and patient interaction.
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Ensure clinical standards and patient care ethics are upheld.
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Academic Support:
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Assist in supervising undergraduate research projects.
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Support students’ clinical skills development.
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Contribute to curriculum and clinical training development.
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Coordination:
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Help coordinate student training in diverse clinical and community-based settings.
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Facilitate communication between clinical sites, academic departments, and students.
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Administration & Reporting:
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Manage administrative duties related to student training and clinic operations.
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Participate in relevant faculty committees and meetings.
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Support documentation and recordkeeping for clinical programs.
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Inherent Requirements
To qualify for this role, you must have:
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A professional bachelor’s degree in Optometry (NQF Level 8).
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At least one year of clinical supervision experience in an Optometry setting.
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A good academic record (attach academic transcript).
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Registration with the HPCSA as an Optometrist (proof required).
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A valid driver’s license.
Recommendations (Advantageous)
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Master’s degree in Optometry, or willingness to enrol for one soon after appointment.
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Experience in presenting at academic conferences (poster/oral presentations).
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Publication(s) in accredited scientific journals.
Required Competencies
Results Orientated
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Adaptability to a dynamic, changing environment.
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Reliability, responsibility, and dependability in fulfilling duties.
Strategic Thinking
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Ability to plan, organize, and analyze clinical and academic issues effectively.
Business Acumen
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Proficiency in MS Office and basic digital tools used in clinical administration.
Leading
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Demonstrates motivation, enthusiasm, and the ability to inspire collaboration among students and colleagues.
Building Coalitions
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
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Comfortable engaging with diverse people in various social and professional contexts.
Benefits
(Subject to University policy and conditions)
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Pension and medical aid schemes
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Group life insurance
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Housing allowance
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Service bonus
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Study benefits
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Annual and sick leave
Application Instructions
Applications must be submitted online via the official UFS vacancy portal:
https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
Important:
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Required Documents:
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Detailed CV
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Copies of qualifications (with SAQA accreditation if applicable)
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Copy of ID or passport
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Proof of registration with HPCSA
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Proof of valid driver’s license
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Academic record
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Proof of current or past employment (letter, contract, or payslip)
Contact Information
For queries:
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Phone: 051 401 2876
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Email: SeitlhekoLP@ufs.ac.za / Recruit@ufs.ac.za
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For technical assistance: 051 401 9813 / 2979 / 2558
Employment Equity Statement
UFS is a designated employer committed to employment equity and diversity.
Preference will be given to candidates from under-represented groups, including persons with disabilities.