Career Opportunities at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

• Liaise with Faculties / Schools / Departments to provide Learning design services.
• Proactively support academic staff to pursue continuous curriculum and programme innovation, including alternative forms of delivery, including blended and online learning approaches.
• Proactively market blended/online learning within the University of the Free State.
• Support academic staff in the analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation of blended/online learning initiatives.
• Support academic staff in the meaningful integration of technology in Learning and Teaching.
• Support staff in the implementation of Universal Design for Learning principles in the design of their blended/online course, assessments, and course materials.
• Implement divisional procedures for designing and developing blended/online learning modules.
• Deal with queries from academic staff regarding Learning and Teaching design.
• Be responsible for the effective dissemination of information about Learning and Teaching design, the official Learning Management System and UFS Educational Technologies to faculty.
• Collaborate with appropriate teaching and learning role-players within faculties and CTL.
• Perform a variety of general administrative tasks, e.g., answering correspondence.
• Maintain links with other Higher Education institutions and participate in communities of practice relevant to Learning and Teaching design.
• Develop training material related to the integration of technology into learning and teaching, including (but not limited to) the use of the Learning Management System and other UFS-approved educational Technologies.
• Present workshops regarding teaching with technology, including (but not limited to) the use of the Learning Management System and UFS-approved Educational Technologies.
• Incorporate Universal Design for Learning principles into training/workshops presented and implement Universal Design for Learning principles in the presentation of training/workshop sessions and in the development of training materials.
• Be part of a structured mentorship programme to create further opportunities for growth and development.
• Play an active role in his/her own self-development and take part in relevant self-development opportunities.
• Work in close collaboration with the designated Learning Developer.
• Supervise and allocate tasks and activities to the designated Learning Developer.
• Analyse and interpret international and national best practices in learning and teaching, specifically blended/online learning.
• Conduct research on the use of emerging and innovative technology in learning and teaching practices.
• Write an annual report on staff training presented and faculty learning design initiatives and projects.
• Play an active role in BLISS research projects.

Inherent Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or an Advanced Diploma/B.Tech degree/Postgraduate Certificate on NQF level 7 or a 3-year National Diploma on NQF level 6.
• A minimum of two (2) years relevant experience in training facilitation and/or the development of learning materials.
• A minimum of two (2) years relevant experience in the use of educational technology, including but not limited to the official learning management system (Blackboard)

Recommendations:

• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Postgraduate qualification or diploma in Education or Higher Education focusing on curriculum design and/or the use of educational technology.
• One year experience in research methodology.
• One year experience in a higher education environment.
• One year experience in project management.

Competencies

Results-oriented:

• The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and work to achieve success.
• The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable, and to fulfil obligations.

Strategic thinking:

• The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.
• 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 lead, take charge of situations and offer opinions and directions to others.
• 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.

Required Documents

• Please ensure that all relevant documentation is attached to your application. 
• A detailed curriculum vitae and cover letter. 
• Copies of qualifications (please provide the SAQA accreditation in the case of foreign qualifications).
• A copy of your identity document (ID or passport in the case of foreign nationals).
• Proof of registration with a Professional Body (if applicable).
• A copy of your driver’s license (if applicable).
• Confirmation of employment from current employer / last employer if unemployed (only applicable to external applicants).

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Duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct innovative research in the following areas: teaching and teacher change in science or mathematics education; science or mathematics teacher identities; instructional leadership for science or mathematics education; and curriculum implementation studies in science or mathematics education.  
• Co-author at least three (3) publication outputs per year in the form of DHET– accredited scholarly journal articles or books/chapters in books.
• Initiate research projects and seek funding for them.
• The renewal of the fellowship beyond the first year depends on satisfactory performance and the submission of an annual progress report.
• Provide limited supervision and/or co-supervision at Honours, Master’s and/or Doctoral level, where appropriate.
• Register and reside as a postdoctoral research fellow at the UFS and 
• Participate in relevant activities of the SANRAL CHAIR in Science and Mathematics Education, and Faculty of Education, Centre for Graduate Support and the Directorate for Research Development.
• The successful candidate will be required to conduct innovative research and obtain evidence- based empirical data on current developments in Higher Education within the South African context and internationally. 

Competencies

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

• Open to all South African and foreign nationals for full-time research at the University of the Free State.
• Graduated with a relevant PhD degree, with a focus on Science or Mathematics Education and/or Instructional Leadership, within the last five years.
• Successful candidates must remember that the fellowship will terminate once your PhD degree reaches the fifth (5th) year of graduation.
• Successful applicants may not hold full-time salaried employment during the fellowship.
• Successful applicants must be able to relocate to the UFS for the duration of the fellowship. 
• This is a residential fellowship: the successful applicant is required to spend 80% of her/his postdoctoral period at the UFS Bloemfontein Campus.

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Duties and responsibilities: 

• Lecture modules at undergraduate and Honors level, including theory and practical components.
• Perform ad-hoc tasks as prescribed by the holder of the SARChl research chair, Program Director, or Head of Department

Inherent requirements:

• Lecturer
• A Doctoral degree in Microbiology on NQF Level 10 Or 
• A master’s degree in Microbiology or related discipline on NQF Level 9, with proof of registration for a PhD on NQF Level 10 in Microbiology.
• Proven experience in the delivery of poster or oral presentations at conferences or equivalent activities.
• Evidence of manuscripts produced that have the potential to be converted or submitted for publication in accredited journals.
• Proven experience of teaching in Microbiology.
• A good academic record.

Recommendations:

• Proven experience (3 years) in the teaching of Microbiology on undergraduate level.

Competencies

Required competencies:  

• Results oriented.
• The ability to stick with tasks, not give up, and overcome obstacles in completing one’s task.
• The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.

Strategic thinking.

• The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
• The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.

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 be sensitive and understanding to the needs and feelings of others.

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Duties and responsibilities:

• Provide leadership in pursuit of the department’s strategic plan with regard to research, teaching and engaged scholarship. 
• Conduct high quality research and publish in accredited journals. 
• Contribute to the teaching of the department at undergraduate and postgraduate level. 
• Supervise postgraduate students with their master’s or PhD theses or research projects. 
• Attend and speak at conferences, research colloquia, workshops and seminars in order to enhance research and disciplinary knowledge. 
• Develop and maintain strong collaborative relationships with relevant research, civil society, government, industry and professional organisations. 
• Assist with the various administrative activities of the department, such as overseeing the capacity building efforts.

Inherent requirements:

Lecturer

• A PhD degree on NQF Level 10 in Economics or Financial Economics (for a permanent appointment). OR
• A Master’s degree on NQF Level 9 in Economics or Financial Economics (contract appointment: 5 years, during which a PhD on NQF Level 10 in Economics or Financial Economics must be obtained to be converted into a permanent appointment).
• Proven experience in presenting Economics/Financial Economics modules at undergraduate/postgraduate levels.
• Proven experience in the delivery of poster or oral presentations at conferences or equivalent activities.
• Provide evidence of manuscripts produced that have the potential to be converted or submitted for publication in accredited journals. 
• A good academic record.

Senior Lecturer:

• A PhD degree on NQF Level 10 in Economics or Financial Economics.
• Proven experience in presenting Economics/Financial Economics modules at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Proven experience in the presentation of papers/posters at national scholarly conferences.
• Proven national recognition for specialist expertise and research in a specific area of scholarship.
• An NRF rating or potential for obtaining an NRF rating.
• Proven experience in supervising graduated master’s students.
• Proven research record of relevant publications in national and international accredited journals.
• Proven experience of service as an active member of a national or international scholarly society or committee or agency concerned with research at higher-education levels.

Recommendations:

• Have a strong mathematical background.
• Be able to teach Spatial Economics at postgraduate level.

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Duties and responsibilities:

• Manage and implement administrative measures to ensure the effective functioning of the Office of the Vice–Chancellor and Principal.
• Manage the diary of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal proactively and holistically.
• Arrange appointments, schedule meetings, and manage meeting administration, requirements, and logistics. 
• Work closely with the Office of the Chief of Staff in executing duties and responsibilities. 
• Manage the document management systems and provide management information to the Vice-Chancellor, and Principal, and Chief of Staff.
• Make national and international travel, accommodation, and related arrangements for the Vice- Chancellor and Principal, and Chief of Staff.
• Arrange summits, work sessions, retreats, and corporate events for the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal in collaboration with the Chief of Staff and other relevant offices. 
• Monitor the operations budget of the office. 
• Implement cost-control mechanisms to optimise expenses within the office. 
• Maintain a good understanding of the UFS policies, systems, and procedures.
• Track deadlines with regard to the submission of documents. 
• Maintain healthy relations between the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal and all relevant internal and external individuals and stakeholder groups. 
• Manage email and telephonic queries and prepare timely responses in consultation with the Office of the Chief of Staff. 
• Provide secretarial support when necessary (drafting agendas, taking minutes, transcriptions, etc.). 
• Receive internal and external guests and visitors.
• Act with the necessary professionalism and diplomacy as required by the high-profile nature of the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal. 

Inherent Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or an Advanced Diploma/B.Tech degree/Postgraduate Certificate on NQF level 7 or a 3-year National Diploma on NQF level 6. 
• A minimum of three (3) years work-related experience as an office manager in a senior capacity.

Recommendations:

• Reasonable knowledge and experience of higher education – specifically the university environment.
• Good understanding of UFS systems, policies, and procedures. 
• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent and proven interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adapt and be flexible.
• Ability to effectively prioritise.
• Ability to function under high pressure.
• High level of honesty and integrity.
• Willingness to work outside regular office hours.

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Duties and responsibilities:

Strategic Planning: 

• Coordinate the needs of the Faculties with the Chief Officer based on the Qwaqwa Campus to ensure that the needs of the campus are incorporated.
• Contribute to the Directorate’s strategy and develop strategies and plans for the Recruitment initiatives on the Qwaqwa Campus.
• Ensure that the Recruitment strategies and plans for the Campus are implemented in consultation with the Faculties and the Directorate.
• Prepare quarterly reports and report to the Directorate as part of the quarterly meetings.
• Work with the Directorate to ensure the information for the Prospectus is collated and submitted before due dates.

Undergraduate Recruitment:

• Assist with career exhibitions and, where necessary, school visits as per the approved plans.
• Liaise with the Qwaqwa Marketer and Unit for Prospective students on the Bloemfontein Campus to ensure sufficient stock of marketing material is maintained.
• Assist with providing information to walk-in prospective students.
• Assist with marketing initiatives aimed at recruiting students as advised by the Faculties and the Directorate where required.
• Assist with parents’ evening sessions at schools and represent Qwaqwa Campus.

Targeted Recruitment:

• Obtain a list of top-achieving prospective students who have applied to the campus and initiate communication.
• Be the conduit for top achievers and maintain good relationships with students.
• Assist top achievers with their student accommodation needs and any other support where necessary.
• Maintain the CRM (Work Centre) for targeted Registration for registration.

Relationship Marketing (Stakeholder Management):

• Work closely with Faculties on the Qwaqwa Campus on applications and analysis thereof.
• Recommend top feeder schools and areas for the two campuses.
• Work closely with the Integrated Marketing Office on the Bloemfontein Campus to ensure that the Qwaqwa Campus is fully represented on the prospective webpage.
• Assist the integrated Marketing office in Bloemfontein in coordinating information for the virtual experience.
• Work closely with the social media Office on the Bloemfontein Campus to widen the reach of our social media platforms and ensure the Qwaqwa Campus is fully represented.
• Work with the SRS office on the Bloemfontein Campus to coordinate information for the Qwaqwa Marketing material.

Data management: 

• Ensure that the QwaQwa CRM data is maintained. 
• Ensure that the Lead Generation Cards are captured correctly. 
• Ensure that all QwaQwa serviced schools are accurately reflected on the CRM database. 
• Analyse the monthly application stats to ensure we meet the SRS formula. 

Student Recruitment Events Management:

• Collaborate with university departments, faculties, support departments and external partners to identify event objectives, themes, and requirements. 
• Develop detailed event plans, timelines, and budgets, ensuring alignment with university goals and resources. 
• Secure necessary permits, licenses, and logistical support for events. 
• Coordinate all aspects of event logistics, including venue selection, catering, audiovisual equipment, decorations, transportation, and accommodations if needed. 
• Work with the Faculties on the campus and the Directorate to develop marketing strategies to promote events and attract target audiences effectively.
• Create compelling event marketing materials, including invitations, posters, digital media, and press releases. 
• Utilise social media, university websites, and other relevant platforms to reach a wider audience. 
• Collect feedback from participants, attendees, and stakeholders to assess event success and identify areas for improvement. 
• Analyse event outcomes against established goals and metrics. 
• Generate post-event reports detailing key insights, challenges, and recommendations for future events. 

Budget Management:

• Prepare and manage the office budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of funds for various office components, including events. 
• Monitor expenses, striving to optimise resources. 

Inherent Job Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree or a B-Tech degree on NQF level 7 in Marketing and Communication. 
• A minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience related to the duties and responsibilities. 
• A valid driver’s licence.

Recommendations:

• Demonstrable evidence of data management and analysis. 
• Understanding of school/university system. 
• Experience in Project and/or Events Management will be advantageous.