Groundsman (Grounds and Gardening) (Permanent position)

This permanent Groundsman position, based at Tygerberg Hospital in Parow Valley, offers an opportunity to join the facility’s grounds and gardening team within the Western Cape Department of Health. The role is central to maintaining a safe, attractive and well-kept hospital environment, supporting both patient experience and operational functionality. As a Groundsman, you will work under the direction of a supervisor and take responsibility for the ongoing development and upkeep of the hospital’s gardens, terrain and surrounding outdoor areas. This is a hands-on role that requires a strong work ethic, practical gardening ability and the capacity to work independently as well as part of a small team.

To be considered for this position, applicants must have appropriate experience working in a grounds and gardening environment, alongside basic literacy and numeracy. The inherent requirements of the job include the ability to operate garden machinery such as lawn mowers and brush cutters, as well as a valid code B or EB driving licence. In addition, candidates must be able to operate and drive a tractor, as this forms part of the daily responsibilities. The role also demands solid gardening skills, including knowledge of landscaping and irrigation systems, and good written and verbal communication skills to interact with supervisors, colleagues and occasionally hospital staff or visitors.

The core duties of the Groundsman cover a wide range of horticultural and maintenance tasks. You will be responsible for the development and maintenance of the facility’s garden and terrain, including the preparation of ground covers for planting trees and bushes. This involves soil preparation, planting, mulching and ensuring that new plantings establish successfully. You will also maintain flower beds and other beddings, keeping them neat, weed-free and appropriately watered. A key part of the role is ensuring that all grounds and gardens are maintained to a high horticultural standard throughout the year, which includes mowing lawns, trimming edges, pruning, and managing irrigation systems. Additionally, you will be responsible for the care and safe operation of machinery and equipment, ensuring that tools are kept in good working order and that any faults are reported promptly. Supporting the supervisor in daily planning and execution of tasks is also expected, which may include assisting with inspections, carrying materials, and performing general labouring duties as required.

Shortlisted candidates should note that they will be subjected to a practical assessment as part of the selection process, allowing applicants to demonstrate their hands-on skills with machinery and gardening tasks. The position offers a stable career within the public health sector, with remuneration comprising an annual salary plus service benefits such as a 13th cheque, employer’s pension fund contribution, and housing and medical aid allowances. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced grounds worker who takes pride in their craft and wishes to contribute to a caring public institution. If you have the required experience, a valid driving licence and the ability to operate a tractor, this role at Tygerberg Hospital may be a strong fit for your skills.