If you are passionate about nature, enjoy working outdoors, and have some experience in gardening or horticulture, this General Worker position at North-West University could be the perfect opportunity for you. North-West University (NWU) is hiring a General Worker (Position Number: P001251) for their Potchefstroom Campus. The role is situated in the Botanical Garden of the Department of Botany and is open for a permanent appointment. This is an exciting role for those looking to contribute to the growth and maintenance of the university’s stunning botanical spaces.
General Worker Job Overview
- Position Title: General Worker
- Reference: nwu_003036
- Location: Potchefstroom Campus, North-West University
- Industry: Education & Training
- Category: Environmental, Horticulture, and Agriculture
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Remuneration: Market-related (commensurate with experience)
- Application Deadline: 20 September 2024
About the General Worker Position
The General Worker P001251 will be responsible for maintaining a section of the NWU Botanical Garden. This includes various gardening tasks such as trimming, pruning, and weeding, along with some ad-hoc duties to assist the School of Biological Sciences. This job presents a valuable opportunity for someone with a passion for the environment, plants, and horticulture, looking to work in an enriching educational setting.
Key Responsibilities
1. Maintenance of the Botanical Garden
You will be responsible for the upkeep and enhancement of a specific section of the Botanical Garden. This includes:
- Trimming, pruning, and removing excess vegetation to maintain healthy growth.
- Weeding invasive and exotic species from the greenhouses and propagation areas.
- Watering the vegetable garden, greenhouses, and propagation areas on a regular basis.
- Fertilizing plants in various sections to encourage healthy growth.
- Monitoring plants for signs of pests and diseases, addressing issues promptly.
- Mulching vegetable beds to improve soil health.
- Sowing seeds and making cuttings to support plant propagation.
- Planting new plants and replacing those that have died.
- Transplanting potted plants when necessary.
- Cleaning paved areas within the greenhouses.
2. General Tasks in the Garden
Additional tasks include:
- Weeding invasive plants in the “Koppie” section.
- Rubble removal and cleaning various garden areas such as the braai area.
- Maintaining garden furniture, tools, equipment, and the storage rooms.
- Cleaning the staff room and gallery kitchen.
- Collecting seeds and other practical materials from the garden for academic use.
3. Occupational Health and Safety
- Ensuring the safety of yourself and others while working in the garden.
4. Ad-hoc Tasks
- Assisting with any other ad-hoc tasks as directed by the School of Biological Sciences.
Key Competencies
To excel in this role, you should have:
- Computer literacy in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), email, and internet.
- Basic knowledge of plant growth and maintenance theory.
- Plant propagation techniques (understanding of sowing, cutting, and transplanting).
- Strong interpersonal skills and a client-service orientation.
- Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
- Problem-solving skills to address issues as they arise.
- Good planning and time management skills to ensure tasks are completed efficiently.
- Effective communication skills.
- A valid driver’s license.
- Language proficiency to function in a multilingual environment.
Behavioral Competencies
You should demonstrate:
- High professional and ethical standards.
- Confidence and the ability to work without constant supervision.
- Self-directedness to complete tasks effectively and on time.
Minimum Requirements
- Grade 12 Certificate or a Certificate in Horticulture (NQF Level 4) is essential.
Added Advantages
- Experience in Botanical Garden Maintenance: At least one year of experience in maintaining botanical gardens.
- General Gardening Experience: A minimum of one year in general gardening tasks and activities.
- Occupational Health and Safety Experience: One year of experience in maintaining safety in the workplace.
Why Consider This Role
This position offers a blend of outdoor work in a serene and academic setting, along with the opportunity to develop and maintain a key part of NWU’s botanical treasures. If you have a passion for gardening, plant propagation, and working in natural environments, this job will allow you to apply your skills and learn new ones in a stimulating and supportive workplace.
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How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply online by submitting their application before the closing date of 20 September 2024.
For job content queries, you may contact Prof. Oziniel Ruzvidzo at 018 389 2289. For recruitment process queries, you may contact Ms. Tirhani Baloyi at 018 285 2037.
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This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone passionate about horticulture and botanical garden management to work in a prestigious university environment. The North-West University is a renowned educational institution that supports career growth and offers a collaborative environment.
The General Worker vacancy at North-West University presents a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about horticulture and gardening. This permanent position offers the chance to work in the picturesque surroundings of the Botanical Garden on the Potchefstroom Campus, where you’ll be involved in various garden maintenance activities, plant propagation, and environmental stewardship. The role not only allows you to contribute to the beauty and health of the garden but also to be part of an academic institution that values growth and innovation.
