Residence Head:University of the Free State 3-Years
Job Details
- Job Title: Residence Head: Male Day Residence
- Institution: University of the Free State
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus
- Employment Type: 3-Year Contract (Secondary Position)
- Level: Junior Management
- Closing Date: 31 March 2026
- Start Date: 1 May 2026
- Salary: Allowance of R178,089.27 per year
Job Overview
This is a junior management leadership role responsible for managing a male day residence community at the university. The role focuses on student leadership, residence management, mentorship, discipline, and creating a positive living and learning environment.
Important: This is a secondary (internal) position, meaning only current permanent UFS staff can apply.
Job Description
1. General Residence Management
- Manage residence operations and administration
- Maintain databases, reports, and records
- Handle finances and oversee maintenance issues
- Implement policies, procedures, and code of conduct
2. Student Support & Development
- Create a positive, inclusive residence environment
- Promote academic success and student engagement
- Provide mentorship, guidance, and support to students
- Communicate with students, parents, and stakeholders
3. Leadership & Team Management
- Lead and guide the residence committee
- Organize elections and leadership development
- Train and mentor student leaders
- Build strong teamwork and collaboration
4. Residence Culture & Community Building
- Foster a diverse and inclusive community
- Promote values, respect, and student well-being
- Support first-year students (FTENs) integration
- Encourage participation in residence activities
5. Discipline & Compliance
- Enforce university policies and rules
- Handle disciplinary issues and conflict resolution
- Work with university structures on serious cases
- Promote responsible student behaviour
6. Student Well-being & Support
- Assist students with:
- Academic challenges
- Emotional or personal issues
- Social and health concerns
- Refer students to professional services when needed
Key Responsibilities
- Manage residence operations and administration
- Lead student structures and committees
- Support student development and well-being
- Enforce discipline and policies
- Build a strong, inclusive residence culture
Requirements & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree / Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
- At least 2 years’ experience in Student Affairs or residence environment
Recommended (Advantageous)
- Postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8)
- 3–5 years’ experience
- Knowledge of:
- Student discipline systems
- Residence policies
- Higher education environment
Key Skills & Competencies
Professional Skills
- Leadership and mentoring
- Conflict resolution and mediation
- Administrative and organisational skills
- MS Office proficiency
Behavioural Competencies
- Adaptability and stress management
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to lead and motivate others
- Team collaboration and relationship-building
Ideal Candidate
Someone who is:
- A strong leader and mentor
- Passionate about student development
- Organized and able to manage multiple responsibilities
- Calm under pressure
- Committed to building a positive student community
Important Notes
- Only permanent UFS staff can apply
- Applications must be submitted via the official UFS website
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
Work Environment Insight
Working at the University of the Free State means:
- Being part of a student-focused academic environment
- Playing a direct role in student success and leadership development
- Working within a structured and policy-driven