Assistant Director (Project Planner) (Post Level 7): Facilities Planning (Job ID: 6238) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

Project Planning & Initiation

• Engage with user clients to identify needs and project requirements.
• Assess feasibility, viability, and operational impact of proposed projects.
• Develop comprehensive project briefs outlining objectives, scope, timelines, and budget estimates.
• Consider all relevant infrastructure aspects, including electricity, HVAC, plumbing, ventilation, IT, safety compliance, and environmental impact.
• Attend to furniture requirements of departments.
• Manage planning and execution of minor projects.
• Align all projects with the university’s masterplan and strategic objectives

Stakeholder Engagement

• Facilitate discussions with internal departments, faculties, and external stakeholders.
• Act as the link between users, consultants and management.
• Ensure clear communication of project expectations and deliverables

Coordination

• Prepare briefing documents and participate in scoping meetings.
• Review proposals and ensure compliance with university specifications.
• Work closely with various parties to achieve functional, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions.
• Ensure integration of building services, utilities, safety systems, and accessibility considerations.

Project Monitoring & Reporting

• Prepare project rollout, progress reports, and milestone tracking.
• Monitor project deliverables to ensure quality and adherence to timelines.
• Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies where required.
• Report project status updates to all relevant parties.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure that all projects comply with university specifications, safety regulations, environmental standards, and relevant statutory requirements.
• Ensure the brief is met in procurement documentation and record-keeping.
• Promote energy efficiency, sustainability, and alignment with best practices.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Proactively suggest creative, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions.
• Benchmark planning practices against industry standards to improve processes.
• Recommend technologies and methodologies that improve project outcomes.

Inherent Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree/Advanced Diploma at NQF Level 7 in Project Management, Construction Management, Architecture, or Quantity Surveying.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in infrastructure or facilities project planning.
• A valid driver’s licence (attach a copy).

Recommendations:

• Registration with a related professional body (attach proof).
• Knowledge of building regulations, SANS standards, OHS Act, and environmental compliance.
• Knowledge of sustainable building practices and energy efficiency principles.
• Experience working in a higher education environment (advantageous).