Professional Dispensing Optician (Post Level 9)(20 Hours Per Week)(Contract Appointment: 2 Years) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

• Support theoretical and practical training of students through lecturing, supervision and assessment of practical dispensing training.
• Provide dispensing supervision and perform dispensing assessments of students during clinical Optometry training.   
• Assist with the cutting and fitting of assistive devices in various settings, including in community-based settings.
• Provide support to dispensing skills development for students within Optometry.
• Assist in the coordination of clinical training of students in various settings, including in community-based settings.
• Contribute to relevant teaching development within the domain of Optometry clinical training.   
• Perform general administration and dispensing quality assurance related to clinical training.
• Attend and contribute to relevant committees and meetings.  
• Perform general administration in the department.

Inherent requirements:

• A relevant National Diploma in Optical Dispensing or Opticianry at NQF Level 6 (attach a copy).   
• A minimum of five (5) years’ relevant professional experience.
• A minimum of two (2) years’ experience in the supervision, training and/or assessment of Optometry students.
• A good academic record (attach a copy).
• Active registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Dispensing Optician (attach a copy).  
• A valid driver's licence (attach a copy).

Recommendations:

• Postgraduate qualification on NQF Level 7 or higher, or willingness to enrol for a postgraduate degree in a health-related field at the first available opportunity, if not yet attained by the time of appointment.
• Delivery of a poster or oral presentation at a conference.

Competencies

Required competencies: 

Results Orientated:

• The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations. 
• The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.

Strategic Thinking:

• The ability to plan work and to follow plans.
• The ability to carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.

Business Acumen:

• The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
• Proficient in using MS Office.

Leading:

• The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
• The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.

Building Coalitions:

• The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
• The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

Assumption of duties:

• As soon as possible.

Closing date:

• 17 September 2026