The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) invites suitably qualified and hardworking individuals to apply for the General Worker (AD.17) position based at Pullen Nature Reserve in Mpumalanga. This is a live-in, hands-on role ideal for candidates with experience in outdoor work, general maintenance, and veld management who are passionate about working in a natural and academic research environment.
Vacancy Overview
| Employer: | University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) |
|---|---|
| Closing Date: | 31 December 2025 |
| Location: | Pullen Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga |
| Department: | School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences |
| Job Level: | AD.17 |
| Employment Type: | Permanent / Live-in Position |
General Worker (AD.17)
School: Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
Facility: Pullen Nature Reserve (Research & Teaching Field Station)
About Pullen Nature Reserve
Pullen Nature Reserve is a research and teaching facility located in the Savanna Biome of Mpumalanga, approximately 35 km south-east of Mbombela in the Krokodilpoortberge. The reserve supports field courses, research activities, and educational programmes for Wits University students and staff.
Minimum Requirements
- Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent NQF Level / N4
- At least 2 years’ experience in general labour, farm work, or similar
- Experience with bush clearing and outdoor maintenance work
- Basic building maintenance experience
Desirable Requirements
- Experience with controlled burning operations
- Experience working on a nature reserve or farm
- Knowledge of local and invasive plant species
- Chainsaw and/or tractor operation experience
- First Aid Level 1
Other Requirements
- Willingness to live on-site at Pullen Nature Reserve
- Willing to work weekends and public holidays when required
- Valid driver’s licence
- Basic IT competence (email usage and online leave applications)
- Basic writing and numeracy skills
Key Responsibilities
Bush and Veld Management
- Clear bushes and remove invasive alien plants
- Assist with controlled burning and firebreak maintenance
- Stack and remove cut vegetation
- General veld maintenance
Road and Infrastructure Maintenance
- Maintain internal roads (pothole filling, drainage clearing, mowing)
- Clear vegetation along roads and pathways
- Repair and maintain fences
- Keep grounds clean and orderly
Vehicle and Machinery Operation
- Operate mowers, tractors, welding machines and other equipment
- Conduct routine assessments and maintenance of vehicles and machinery
Building and Facility Maintenance
- Basic building maintenance and painting
- Maintain water systems, tanks and gutters
- Cleaning and upkeep of accommodation facilities
- Waste management and rubbish removal
- Assist with small building and improvement projects
General Duties
- Support the Field Station Manager with maintenance tasks
- Prepare facilities for visiting students and research groups
- Operate and maintain tools and equipment
- Report faults, follow safety procedures and assist with conservancy duties
Working Conditions
- Live-in position with on-site accommodation provided
- Physically demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions
- Weekend and public holiday work when field courses are hosted
- Total of 22 working days per month (on/off arrangements negotiable)
- Strict adherence to health and safety procedures
How to Apply
External applicants must apply online via the Wits i-Recruitment platform.
To apply and for more details, visit:
https://irec.wits.ac.za
Applicants must submit:
- Cover letter
- Detailed CV
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Names and email addresses of three (3) referees
Applicants with foreign qualifications must submit SAQA evaluation reports.
Internal applicants: Apply via Oracle Self Service → iWits → “Apply for a Job”.
Closing Date
31 December 2025
If you do not receive feedback after the closing date, please regard your application as unsuccessful.