GROUNDSMAN (X2 POSTS)

This position offers an opportunity to join the Department of Water and Sanitation as part of the Voelvlei Scheme in the Western Cape, where two groundsman posts are available. The role is essential for maintaining the physical infrastructure and surrounding environment of the scheme, which includes canals, embankments, bridges, and access roads. As a groundsman, you will be responsible for ensuring that these areas remain safe, functional, and free from vegetation overgrowth, debris, and structural damage. The work is hands-on and physically demanding, often performed outdoors in varying weather conditions, and may require working in or near water bodies such as rivers, dams, and canals, as well as in confined spaces. You will also be expected to assist other schemes and maintenance teams when the need arises, demonstrating flexibility and a cooperative spirit.

To be considered for this role, you need an ABET certificate or a relevant qualification, along with zero to one year of working experience. While prior experience is not strictly required, any additional years of performing manual work will be viewed as an advantage. A valid, unexpired code B driver’s licence is mandatory and must be disclosed. The ideal candidate will possess practical knowledge of general work and handling equipment, including gardening tools and lawn care processes such as pruning and trimming. Familiarity with chemical use, including proper dilution and mixing, and knowledge of chemical products is also required. You should understand daily maintenance procedures to keep machines and equipment operating efficiently, and have a basic grasp of water utilisation and resource strategies. Knowledge of health and safety procedures is critical, as is an understanding of garden maintenance and planting practices. A basic awareness of government legislation is expected. Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team are essential, along with punctuality, productivity, and loyalty.

Your main duties will involve cleaning and maintaining the grounds, repairing tools and structures such as buildings and fences using hand tools, and cutting vegetation while applying herbicides as needed. You will cut trees and grass at toe level on embankments, clear weeds and sand from bridges, channels, and superstructures, and clean sand traps and long weirs. Removing debris from inlet and outlet structures, inspecting and repairing fences, clearing canal culverts, and filling and compacting potholes on access roads and embankments are also part of the job. You will remove debris deposits from inside canals, clean equipment, and report any broken machines or equipment to supervisors. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying maintenance needs and addressing them promptly.

Preference will be given to candidates from the geographical area surrounding the Voelvlei Scheme, so local applicants are encouraged to apply. This is a permanent position graded at Level 02, with a salary structure typical of that grade. The closing date is provided in the vacancy listing, and all applications must be submitted online through the department’s e-recruitment portal. For any queries, the contact person is Ms LCB Magalie, whose telephone number is listed in the full advertisement. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for individuals who enjoy outdoor manual work and want to contribute to the vital water infrastructure of South Africa. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to work in a dynamic, team-oriented environment, this groundsman position could be a rewarding step in your career.