Are you a social media expert with a passion for engaging and empowering communities online? The University of the Free State (UFS) is currently looking for a highly skilled and motivated Social Media Specialist to join their dynamic team within the Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Office under the Communication and Marketing unit. This permanent position offers the perfect opportunity to leverage your expertise in social media management to contribute to the university’s strategic goals. If you are passionate about crafting creative campaigns and engaging with diverse audiences, this position could be your next career move!
Social Media Specialist Job Overview
- Job Title: Social Media Specialist (Post Level 11)
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
- Job ID: 6170
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Occupational Level: Semi-Skilled
- Closing Date: 22 June 2025
Social Media Specialist Position Overview
The Social Media Specialist (Post Level 11) is a key role within the UFS Communication and Marketing team. Reporting to the department’s leadership, the successful candidate will be responsible for developing and executing social media strategies that align with the university’s objectives. This involves not only managing social media accounts but also using data-driven insights to enhance online engagement, student relations, and the overall digital presence of UFS.
Key Responsibilities
As a Social Media Specialist at UFS, your role will involve diverse and exciting tasks aimed at enhancing the university’s online presence and fostering positive relationships with students, staff, and other stakeholders. The main duties include:
- Social Media Strategy Development: Lead the creation and execution of innovative social media strategies and campaigns aligned with UFS’s institutional objectives.
- Trend Monitoring & Crisis Management: Keep an eye on emerging trends, identify student concerns, and handle crisis communication when necessary.
- Content Creation: Develop multimedia content (images, videos, written copy) for social media platforms to support UFS-wide initiatives.
- Community Engagement: Respond to public and student queries professionally, ensuring a brand-aligned tone and approach.
- Analytics & Reporting: Track social media performance using industry-standard tools like Meta Business Suite, TikTok Analytics, and Brandwatch. Provide reports on campaign performance and recommend adjustments.
- Collaboration & Coordination: Work with the UFS Social Media Squad and other internal stakeholders to ensure content is authentic, engaging, and resonates with students.
- Brand Consistency: Ensure all social media content and profiles reflect UFS’s branding guidelines and adhere to institutional standards.
Inherent Requirements
To be eligible for this exciting opportunity, you need to meet the following inherent requirements:
- Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree/BTech/Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) in Communication, Journalism, Media, Marketing, or a related field.
- Experience: A minimum of two (2) years’ proven experience in social media or digital media management.
- Skills: Proficiency in social media management tools and multimedia content creation software. Knowledge of SEO and social media advertising is advantageous.
Recommendations
While not mandatory, candidates with the following will be given preference:
- Experience: Three (3) to five (5) years in social/digital media management.
- Higher Qualification: An Honours degree (NQF level 8) in Communication, Journalism, Media, Marketing, or a related field.
- Specialized Experience: Experience in higher education, youth-focused brands, or digital agencies will be an advantage.
Required Competencies
The ideal candidate should possess the following competencies:
- Results-Oriented: Ability to adapt to a constantly changing environment, work under pressure, and meet deadlines.
- Strategic Thinking: Capable of focusing on details and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Business Acumen: Familiarity with industry-standard analytics tools (e.g., Meta Business Suite, Hootsuite) and multimedia creation software (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite).
- Leadership: Demonstrates motivation, energy, and enthusiasm to lead by example.
- Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with others and contribute to a positive team environment.
Benefits and Compensation
UFS offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Annual Salary: R447,323.31 – R562,750.48 per annum (based on experience and qualifications).
- Fringe Benefits: Pension scheme, medical aid, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave, sick leave, service bonus, and study benefits.
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How to Apply
To apply for the Social Media Specialist Vacancy at the University of the Free State, you must submit your application through the official UFS vacancy portal:
Apply Here
Ensure that your application is complete by submitting the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copies of qualifications or proof of qualifications obtained (include SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications).
- A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
- Confirmation of employment (e.g., letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or payslip from your most recent employer).
Incomplete applications will not be considered. Also, ensure that you upload all documents as one or fewer merged files to avoid submission issues.
Assumption of Duties
The selected candidate will be expected to start on 01 July 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Additional Information
- Enquiries: For any further information, you can contact the UFS recruitment office at 051 401 9814 or email MakolaCM@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za.
- Employment Equity: UFS is committed to achieving its equity targets. Preference will be given to candidates from underrepresented designated groups, including people with disabilities.
- Privacy: UFS ensures that all personal information submitted will be treated with confidentiality, in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
