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The University of Cape Town (UCT) is currently seeking dedicated General Workers / Gardeners to join their Grounds and Gardens team. If you have a passion for horticulture and landscaping, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

Job Details

• Position: General Worker / Gardener (Permanent)
• Payclass: 03
• Department: Estates and Custodial Services, Properties and Services Department
• Annual Salary (including benefits): Between R202,856 and R338,651

What Will You Do?

As a General Worker / Gardener at UCT, you will play a key role in maintaining and developing the beautiful campus grounds. Your tasks will vary depending on the team you’re working with, but here are some of your core responsibilities:

1. Grounds Maintenance & Development:

• Maintain and develop UCT’s campus grounds through landscape maintenance activities, including mowing, weeding, watering, edging, trimming, and fertilizing lawns.
• Carry out general cleaning tasks, such as sweeping stairs and roadways, clearing debris, and litter collection in various areas.
• Support campus landscaping projects by preparing soil, planting, and undertaking renovation activities using both hard and soft landscaping methods.

2. Horticultural & Arboriculture Care:

• Provide care for campus plants, trees, and shrubs by performing soil cultivation, pruning, pest control, and propagation.
• Apply mulch, fertilizers, and pest control agents to ensure plant health.
• Manage tree maintenance and pruning, ensuring the proper care of heritage and alien species to maintain campus biodiversity.

3. Health & Safety Compliance:

• Adhere to all health and safety regulations when handling gardening tools and chemicals.
• Regularly check and maintain equipment to ensure safety and functionality.

4. Team Collaboration & Support:

• Work closely with your team, fostering a positive and productive environment.
• Engage with staff members across the university to meet their landscaping needs efficiently.

5. Waste & Sustainability Management:

• Help with the responsible disposal of garden waste, including composting and vegetation waste management.
• Participate in UCT’s sustainability initiatives to conserve biodiversity and reduce invasive alien vegetation.

Who Should Apply?

Minimum Requirements:

• Educational Requirements: At least Grade 8 (Matric not required).
• Experience: A minimum of two years of experience in landscape maintenance or a similar role.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in operating gardening equipment such as trimmers, chainsaws, weed eaters, and blowers.
  • Knowledge of horticultural techniques and plant types (including heritage trees and invasive vegetation) is an advantage.

Personal Attributes:

• High attention to detail and an ability to meet high standards.
• Collaborative attitude with the ability to work well within a team.
• Strong physical fitness to handle outdoor labor.

Advantageous Qualifications:

• Formal qualifications in gardening, landscaping, or a related field.
• Knowledge of sustainable gardening practices, such as organic pest control and composting.

How to Apply

If you meet the requirements and are excited about this opportunity to make a real impact at UCT, you can apply by sending the following documents in a single PDF file to grounds&gardens.recruit@uct.ac.za:

• UCT Application Form (Download here)
• A Cover Letter explaining your interest in the role
• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Important: Please ensure the title and reference number (E25309) are included in the subject line of your email. Applications that do not meet these requirements will be regarded as incomplete.

Why Work at UCT?

UCT is not just an institution for education—it’s a community committed to excellence, diversity, and the pursuit of sustainability. Working as a General Worker / Gardener here means becoming part of a team that plays a vital role in shaping a greener, more beautiful campus environment. The university is also committed to diversity and equity in the workplace, and preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups.

Final Notes

Don’t miss the chance to be part of a team that is committed to maintaining and enhancing UCT’s natural environment. Apply today and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in landscaping and horticulture!

UCT reserves the right not to appoint anyone if they feel the position is not suited to the candidate pool.

For more information on UCT’s Employment Equity policy, visit: UCT Employment Equity Policy.

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