Job Vacancies at North West University

Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

• As a senior representative of the Faculty of Health Sciences, manage the operational delivery to achieve the unitary Faculty strategy and plan. In addition, provide functional and academic leadership across campuses in respect of Research, Innovation, Community Engagement and Postgraduate Studies.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Development

• Co- determine faculty strategy and joint accountability for the implementation thereof.
• Jointly accountable for the successful implementation of the NWU Research and Innovation strategy and the NWU.
• Teaching and Learning strategy.
• Jointly accountable for successful implementation of the overall NWU strategy.
• Translate the Faculty strategy into site implementation plans and operationalise

Operational Management

• Lead and direct day-to-day operational planning, performance and quality ensuring alignment with the faculty plan.
• Participate in planning with Research Entities and Schools and the annual faculty calendar.
• Oversee and manage utilisation of resources and finances as allocated by the Executive Dean.
• Deputise for the Executive Dean.
• Accountable across campuses as Chairperson of relevant faculty board committee(s).

Research and Innovation

• Maintain a research environment and support infrastructure enabling world-class research.
• Implement inter-and trans-disciplinary research that differentiates the NWU nationally and internationally.
• Participate in national and international collaboration addressing NWU niche research areas.
• Continuous improvement of research outputs (quality and number) to positively impact national and international standing.
• Promote the faculty through market trends and needs identification
• Implementation and management of innovative post graduate programs which address the national and international needs.
• Clustering research and innovation appropriately around agreed research themes focusing on national and international imperatives.
• Coordinate fundamental research, applied research, research in application, curiosity- driven research, blue skies research and directed research
• Facilitate differentiation and third- and fifth stream revenue generation through innovation and commercialization.

Community Engagement

• Drive community engagement initiatives that are integrated with research & innovation as well as teaching & learning.
• Socially responsive local community projects, supportive of faculty objectives and departmental programme content.

Student Relations

• Liaise with students and parents, build relationships and resolve escalations.
• Increase students’ identification and association with the faculty and its operation across campuses.

External Relationships

• Secure funding, professional recognition, academic development, employment, through effective local and international relationships with peers, higher education institutions, research community, industry, professional bodies and community.
• In consultation with the Executive Dean, position and promote the faculty and ultimately the NWU Brand, through effective marketing and communication, relationships with local government, the community, industry, students, parents and alumni and other stakeholders.
• Promote and drive internationalisation and commercialisation.

Management and Leadership

• Faculty effectiveness and efficiency inclusive of infrastructure and facilities.
• Research entities, schools, programme effectiveness - joint accountability.
• Joint accountability with leadership team for management effectiveness of the institution.
• Stakeholder relationship development and effectiveness.
• Corporate governance conformance, reporting and risk management.
• Accountability for the management of research ethics and integrity in all activities of the research, innovation and postgraduate environment.
• Cost management and cost- effectiveness.
• Faculty processes and systems implementation, utilisation, effectiveness and efficiency.
• Digitalisation and automation of faculty processes in the R&I environment to streamline processes and speed up decision making.
• Mentorship and career development of staff members.
• Personal effectiveness, wholeness and development.
• Values-based behaviour leadership and personal compliance.

Minimum requirements

• A PhD in a relevant discipline offered in the faculty of Health Sciences (NQF level 10).
• Membership of appropriate academic and professional networks/societies.
• Professional registration where applicable.
• A minimum of five (5) years’ senior/middle academic management experience.
• Significant experience in higher education including experience in community engagement.
• Must be an NRF-rated researcher.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Thorough knowledge of the RSA Higher Education system.
• Well- developed information and communication technology proficiency.
• Acceptable management accountancy proficiency.
• Acceptable contract development and management proficiency.
• Acceptable knowledge of approaches to student access and support and curriculum design and delivery within the applicable academic fields.
• Aptitude in managing the research- innovation value chain.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Professional work ethic.
• Autonomous, accurate and assertive.
• Responsible, accountable, fair, transparent.
• Good communication (verbally and written) skills; setting up business meetings and appointments.
• Is decisive, able to reach timely decisions and initiate action appropriately.
• Follows through on commitments, obligations for services.
• Accepts public criticism and responds appropriately.
• Is entrepreneurial.
• Represents FHS and NWU in a positive and professional manner.
• Uses common sense and good judgment in business transactions.

Apply by: 30 November 2025

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Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

• The successful applicant will mainly be responsible for research outputs in the Pentecostal paradigm.  Additional responsibilities will include post-graduate supervision and teaching related to the Pentecostal paradigm.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Teaching and Learning (undergraduate and postgraduate)
• Research and Innovation
• Social responsiveness / Community Engagement
• Administration and Management
• Occupational Safety and Health

Minimum requirements

• A PhD (NQF level 10) in Pentecostal Studies.
• A valid membership with relevant scholarly / academic society.
• A minimum of five (5) years’ teaching experience in a tertiary context on an associate or full professor level.
• A record of consistent research outputs in line with associate or full professor level.
• A proven record of completed supervision of post graduate students on masters and doctoral level.

ADDED ADVANTAGES:

• An NRF rating is a strong recommendation.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES

• Contributions to current subject knowledge on national and international levels.
• Able to function as part of a faculty team.
• Manage academic administration related to the position effectively.
• Appropriate IT knowledge and skills and ongoing development of skills.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to contribute to good relations among staff members in the faculty.
• Ability to  build a good rapport with the students and act as an inspirational role model and mentor for students and colleagues.

CLOSING DATE:  10 November 2025       

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Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

• To provide professional and management expertise at the Mahikeng Campus Health Care Clinic, including occupational health and related activities, in accordance with the requirement of the employee and wellness programme. To provide primary health care to students and staff and NWU-employed contract workers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Clinical services:

• Manage and oversee the Primary Health Care program and general functioning of the Primary Health Care facility. 
• Providing clinical service of a high quality, according to DOH and NWU policies and guidelines.
• Maintaining confidentiality and complying with the POPIA and Nursing Act.
• Daily comprehensive health care through clinical diagnosis, treatment, and care.
• Managing Primary Health Care services according to Department of Health guidelines, protocols, and policies.
• Services include Chronic disease management, CCMDD program management, Antenatal services, TB, and HIV management as well as other communicable diseases, rendering emergency services, treatment of minor ailments, and contraceptive services.
• Identifying health tendencies and possible health risks that can be detrimental to the NWU community.
• Referral of clients to other stakeholders (internal and external) to ensure the best possible care to the client.

Management responsibilities:

• Quality improvement: Auditing of data and patient records to identify quality of service problems, risk assessments to identify possible tendencies, and training opportunities.
• Establishment and regular review of policies, systems, activities, structures, processes, and procedures directed towards achieving and maintaining, monitoring, and promoting health at the NWU.
• Optimal management of all resources to provide quality client care and service delivery.
• Financial management and cost containment to ensure allocation of the budget according to current needs.
• Managing assets of the CHCC with monthly and yearly asset control.
• Drug supply management to reduce wastage and ensure quality service delivery and availability of pharmaceuticals.
• Compile and submit regular reports reflecting on health care services to the relevant stakeholders such as Department of Health and relevant committees according to the Annual Performance Plan, and policies of the NWU.
• Collaboration with other stakeholders to improve the overall health program of the NWU. Identifying new health needs and negotiating support to improve the health program of the NWU.
• Quarterly audits as prescribed by the Department of Health for the different Primary Health Care services rendered by the Health Care Centre:
• Minor ailments
• Female reproductive care.
• Male Health
• Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS records.
• Laboratory specimens sent to the NHLS (National Health Laboratory Service) and private Laboratories. To make sure that all the results were received and communicated to patients.
• Auditing of patient records.
• Bi-annual stock counts to identify stock losses or pharmaceuticals close to expiry dates.

Educational responsibilities:

• Ensure that high levels of ethical and good clinical practice standards are always upheld.
• Compile the Unit’s reports, analyse reports and draft improvement plans on a monthly, quarterly, bi-annual, and annual basis. Reports are to be submitted to the direct line manager and relevant committees/stakeholders, both internal and external.
• Ensure proper recording and flow of information, and that all clients’ records are always kept under lock and key when not in use.
• Always ensure availability and proper utilisation of resources and provide support and guidance to the Unit’s Asset Holder.
• Ensure stock procurement and control in line with Good Pharmacy Practice and the University’s inventory procedures.
• Observe the University’s financial policies on procurement.
• Ensure that the clinicians are registered with the regulatory bodies and that their practicing licenses are up to date.

Research Responsibilities:

• Assist with research conducted by the Health Care Centre and the NWU, and other stakeholders.
• Study disease trends and patterns to target approaches for mitigating disease effects and outbreaks.

Occupational Health and Safety:

• Co-operating with management, OHS officials, and colleagues to meet the legal requirements, whilst upholding and maintaining general occupational health and safety standards and practices.
• Comply with OHS audits, schedules, evacuation drills, etc.
• Ensure safe keeping and proper disposal of sharps and medical waste.
• Practice aseptic techniques during procedures.

People Management:

• Create an enabling leadership culture by developing a shared direction, shared values and alignment, and commitment to transform the organizational culture.
• Foster a participative and developmental leadership style.
• Improve team cohesion, synergy, and effectiveness.
• Develop a Strategic Workforce Plan that builds proportions of African and People with disabilities and implements the Plan.
• Arrange and implement culture improvement interventions, establish a baseline, receive a report and feedback, and implement; actively remove engagement barriers.

Career involvement and professional development:

• Stay informed about new developments in the Health Care sector and NWU through attending webinars and reading articles on the internet.
• Ensure constant professional development and stay informed about changes in the medical field.
• Attend at least one seminar or conference per year on Primary Health Care related matters.
• Attend at least 2 webinars or training sessions (formal or informal) to improve knowledge of Primary Health Care related subjects.

Minimum requirements

• A bachelor’s degree / Diploma (R425) in General Nursing – Nursing and Midwifery.
• A post basic qualification in Nursing (R48) specialising in Clinical Nursing Science, Health Assessment, Treatment and Care (Primary Health Care).
• A dispensing course with specialisation in dispensing medicines in line with the Essential Medicine List.
• NIMART Certified – Nurse Initiated Management of Anti-Retroviral Therapy.
• PICT/HTS Trained – Provider Initiated Counselling and Testing / HIV and AIDS Testing Services.
• Professional registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC).
• A minimum of five (5) years’ work experience in the provision of comprehensive Primary Health Care.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ work experience in managing and operating a primary health care facility

RECOMMENDATION / ADDED ADVANTAGE:

• Professional membership with the South African Association of Campus Health Services (SAACHS).

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Knowledge of National Indicator Data Set (NIDS).
• Knowledge of the District Health Information System.
• Knowledge of Ideal Clinic Realisation Model.
• Knowledge of National Core Standards in ensuring quality healthcare services.
• High-level Nursing Process competency.
• Knowledge of National Health Act and other relevant legislation governing health care services in RSA.
• Good communication skills, with multilingual mastery of written and verbal communication.
• Sound knowledge of financial management processes and policies.
• Computer proficiency and literacy (MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Good report writing and statistical analysis.
• Good presentation skills.
• Problem-solving skills with results-oriented.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Good interpersonal relationship skills with a high regard for teamwork and negotiations.
• Good people and conflict management, and an ability to maintain confidentiality.
• High regard for student-centered services and good customer care.
• Able to work under pressure.
• Therapeutic use of self.
• Task-orientated and effective time management.

Apply by: 23 November 2025

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Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

• The Senior Laboratory Specialist is responsible for ensuring excellence in research operations and scientific output through comprehensive oversight of technical infrastructure, training initiatives, and research activities.
• This role entails overseeing the maintenance and operation of high-value analytical instrumentation by technical staff and students, thereby enhancing operational efficiency, reducing repair costs, and maximising research productivity.
• Concurrently, the Senior Lab Specialist leads the development and implementation of standardised, high-quality operating procedures and training programs for routine and advanced analytical methodologies.
• The role provides scientific consultation across all research phases, including experimental design, statistical methodology, data analysis, and quality control, to uphold consistency, accuracy, and scientific rigor.
• Additionally, the role involves leading external collaborative research projects, thereby fostering the internationalisation of the research entity and driving increased publication output.
• By integrating technical leadership with scientific expertise, the Senior Lab Specialist plays a pivotal role in maintaining a high-performing, globally connected research environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Operational activities:

• Supervise technical staff in daily operation, maintenance and troubleshooting of high-value analytical instrumentation.
• Develop and enforce preventative maintenance schedules to minimise downtime/repair costs.
• Optimise resource allocation and lab scheduling, prioritising high-impact projects.

Research and Innovation:

• Drive development/optimisation of analytical methods and improve data quality control and reproducibility.
• Provide scientific consultation: advise on study design, sample preparation, method selection, data processing/statistical analysis, and quality control.
• Co-develop and maintain standardised data processing pipelines.
• Lead/foster collaborative research projects (national/international); co-author publications to increase output and internationalisation.

Teaching and Learning:

• Student training and post-graduate (MSc and PhD) supervision.
• Design high-quality, standardised training programs for technical staff and students to promote quality control and regulatory practices.
• Identify and facilitate external training opportunities when needed to align with industry standards.

Laboratory Administration:

• Effective and efficient inventory management and procurement to align with research priorities.
• Maintain rigorous oversight of laboratory record-keeping by ensuring regular and compliant logbook entries.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with application specialists and representatives to maximise technical support and drive innovation in laboratory practices.

Quality control:

• Adhering to ISO 17025 / Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards where applicable.
• Drive continuous improvement in lab processes and data quality.
• Lead the development, implementation and maintenance of quality management systems, including SOPs for all lab processes, data integrity checks, and regular internal audits.

 Ad hoc tasks:

• As directed by the Director.

Occupational Health and Safety:

• Foster a safety-focused culture by encouraging proactive risk identification, reporting, and shared accountability within the lab team (GLP, OHS and ethical research practices).

Minimum requirements

• A PhD (NQF level 10) in Biochemistry or Analytical Chemistry.
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in the following areas:
• Basic laboratory skills and management;
• Gas- and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS and LC-MS);
• Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR);
• Bioenergetics and metabolic flux analysis (Seahorse XF and/or Oroboros O2k);
• Human and animal metabolomics and bioenergetics; and
• Data processing and statistical analysis
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in the supervision/co-supervision of post-graduate students.

RECOMMENDATIONS / ADDED ADVANTAGES:

• Any academic qualification in Statistics with Biostatistics as an area of specialisation.
• Registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP).
• Membership with professional bodies such as South African Association for Mass Spectrometry (SAAMS), Chromatography Society of South Africa (ChromSA) or Metabolomics South Africa (MSA).

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Advanced knowledge of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) – application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control.
• Advanced knowledge of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) – application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control.
• Advanced knowledge of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) – application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control.
• Advanced knowledge of bioenergetics and metabolic flux analysis (Seahorse XF/Oroboros) – application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control.
• Proven ability to derive robust biological insights from metabolomics and bioenergetics data through rigorous preprocessing and application of advanced statistical methods.
• Skilled in sample preparation for diverse metabolomics platforms and bioenergetic analyses spanning cells, animal models, and human specimens.
• Excellent computer skills with proven competency in mass spectrometric (MS), NMR, respirometry and metabolic flux software and data processing.
• Record keeping of equipment booking, usage logs, results and quality documentation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Language proficient in a multi-lingual environment.
• Strong publication record in metabolomics and bioenergetics research, underpinned by advanced knowledge in mammalian metabolic biochemistry.
• Experience in post-graduate supervision.
• Ability to design and deliver effective training programs for staff and students, fostering skill development in lab techniques, safety practices, and adherence to regulatory standards.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to effectively work independently and in a team.
• Exceptional attention to detail and consistency in executing complex tasks.
• Ability to function under pressure.
• Natural innovator who strives for ‘best practice’ and technical advancement.
• Ability to build good interpersonal relationships and communicate effectively across diverse teams, fostering trust and facilitating knowledge exchange.

Apply by: 21 November 2025

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Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

• The Laboratory Specialist is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of operational excellence and technical reliability across the research unit. This role is central to maintaining uninterrupted functionality across the full spectrum of laboratory infrastructure, including critical support and monitoring systems.
• The Laboratory Specialist ensures improved maintenance of expensive analytical equipment, leading to improved functionality, reduced maintenance cost, improved post-graduate flow-through, and increased publication outputs for the research entity.
• By implementing robust quality control measures, the Laboratory Specialist plays a key role in upholding the integrity of the research entity outputs and enabling high-impact, methodologically sound research. The Laboratory Specialist will also be responsible for post-graduate training and support on various analytical equipment (GC, NMR, EPR, LC).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Operational activities:

• Pre-analytical and analytical processing of research samples and equipment maintenance.
• Lead infrastructure upgrades and manage installation and integration processes to enhance operational capacity.
• Execute routine servicing of laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimise downtime.

Research and Innovation:

• Assistance with method development and improvement of analytical capabilities.

Teaching and Learning:

• Student training

Laboratory Administration:

• Effective and efficient inventory management.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with application specialists and representatives to maximise technical support and drive innovation in laboratory practices.

Quality control:

• Adhering to ISO 17025 / Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards where applicable.

Ad hoc tasks:

• As directed by the Director.

Occupational Health and Safety:

• Foster a safety-focused culture by encouraging proactive risk identification, reporting, and shared accountability within the lab team (GLP, OHS and ethical research practices).

Minimum requirements

• A Masters’ degree (NQF level 9) in Biochemistry or Analytical Chemistry.
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in the following areas:
• Basic laboratory skills and management;
• Gas- and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS and LC-MS); and
• Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).
• Must have experience in Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR).

RECOMMENDATIONS / ADDED ADVANTAGES:

• Membership with professional bodies such as South African Association for Mass Spectrometry (SAAMS), Chromatography Society of South Africa (ChromSA) or Metabolomics South Africa (MSA).

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Advanced knowledge of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) – application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control
• Advanced knowledge of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) – application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control
• Advanced knowledge of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) – application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control
• Advanced knowledge of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) – application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control
• Excellent computer skills with proven competency in mass spectrometry (MS) and NMR data processing
• Strong understanding of safety regulations, risk assessments, and emergency protocols, ensuring a safe working environment and minimising risks related to hazardous and biohazardous materials
• Record keeping of equipment booking, usage logs, results and quality documentation
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Language proficient in a multi-lingual environment
• Ability to train staff and students, fostering skill development in lab techniques, safety practices, and adherence to regulatory standards.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to effectively work independently and in a team
• Ability to function under pressure
• Natural innovator who strives for ‘best practice’ and technical advancement.

Apply by: 21 November 2025

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Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

• To provide optimum, efficient, and comprehensive (preventative, promotive and curative) primary health care (PHC) services to students and staff of the North-West University on the Vanderbijlpark Campus.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provision of PHC Services:

• Provision of daily comprehensive primary health care through clinical diagnosis, treatment, and care, as per the SANC, DoH and NWU policies, protocols, and guidelines.
• Referral of clients to other stakeholders (internal and external) to ensure the best possible care for clients.
• Dispensing of medicines, as per the prescripts of Good Pharmacy Practice and Medicines and Related Substances Control Act of 1965, as amended.
• Provision of emergency health care on Campus and arranging ambulance services for the transfer of patients.
• Identification and reporting of health trends and possible health risks that can be detrimental to the NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus community.

Clinical Management Responsibilities including Stock and Equipment Control:

• Manage assets, supplies and consumables (including essential medicines) and ensure that medication is available according to APC Guidelines for Maintaining FIFO.
• Drug supply management to reduce wastage and ensure quality service delivery and availability of pharmaceuticals.
• Responsibility for physical counting of equipment and furniture, recording of equipment and supplies received, and control of facility stock and supplies.
• Supervise Clinic staff and ensure ongoing rendering of Clinic services in the absence of the Head Nurse.
• Keep accurate patients and clinical records.

Education and Development Responsibilities:

• Initiate and enhance health awareness at the NWU.
• Identify personal training needs and assist with arranging training.
• Ensure regular attendance of training to stay up to date with best practices.
• Effectively communicate and conduct awareness programmes on the Vanderbijlpark Campus.
• Undergo personal and professional development to improve quality of work through utilization of specialized knowledge and skills.
• Assist with relevant research conducted by the HealthCare Centre, Vanderbijlpark Campus and the NWU, as well as other stakeholders.
• Promotion of healthy lifestyle and educational health campaigns on- and off-Campus (e.g., Vaccination and Health Campaigns at Residences), including attending the River FM interviews for the Clinic’s health slots.

Infection Control:

• Monitor the implementation and compliance with universal precautions of infection control.
• Ensure safe keeping and proper disposal of sharps and medical wastes.
• Practice aseptic techniques during procedures.
• Report and record needle prick injuries. 

Sexual and Reproductive Health Services:

• Provision of comprehensive sexual reproductive health services.
• Responsibility for the screening and treatment of sexually transmitted infections.
• Counselling and provision of various and chosen contraceptive method.

Minimum requirements

• A Degree / Advanced Diploma (R425) (NQF level 7 / 6) in Nursing – General, Psychiatry, Community and Midwifery.
• A Post-Basic Qualification in Nursing (R48) specialising in Clinical Nursing Science, Health Assessment, Treatment and Care (Primary Health Care).
• A minimum of four (4) years’ work experience in the provision of Primary Health Care services as a registered professional nurse.
• A minimum of four (4) years’ work experience of dispensing medicines.
• A minimum of three (3) years working experience in HAST management.
• Dispensing of medicines license.
• NIMART trained with specialisation in Antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, care and support.
• Registered with the South African Nursing Council (SANC).

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Service focus with passion for comprehensive quality care provision.
• A strong inclination towards client service, particularly adolescent and youth friendly services.
• Training and experience in sexual health programmes.
• Ability to use information technology, including MS Office, e-mail, and virtual platforms.
• Batho-Pele Principles, Patients’ Rights Charter, and other related legislative frameworks
• Therapeutic use of self.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Must have excellent communication (verbal and written), including report-writing skills.
• Planning and organising skills.
• Ability to perform under pressure.
• Must have excellent interpersonal, teamwork and collaboration skills.
• People and conflict management skills.
• Good client relations.

Apply by: 12 November 2025