Household Aid (Theatre) (Permanent position)

This permanent position is based at Knysna Hospital in the Garden Route District and falls within the Western Cape Department of Health. As a Household Aid assigned to the theatre unit, the successful candidate will play a vital supportive role in maintaining a clean, safe and hygienic environment for patients, nursing staff and medical procedures. The post is a full-time, permanent appointment, and the work is physically demanding, requiring a reliable individual who can handle the pressures of a hospital setting. The role is not limited to the theatre alone, as staff are expected to rotate across different departments according to operational needs, making flexibility an important attribute.

Applicants need only a basic level of numeracy and literacy as the minimum educational qualification, but they must have appropriate experience in a household or cleaning environment, specifically within a health facility. This means prior exposure to hospital cleaning protocols, patient areas or clinical housekeeping is essential. In addition, the inherent requirements of the job include the physical ability to perform demanding cleaning tasks and to operate heavy-duty cleaning and household equipment. A willingness to work shifts, weekends, public holidays, night duty and overtime is also required, as hospital services operate around the clock. The ability to adapt to changing rosters and departmental needs is therefore a key part of the role.

The main duties revolve around comprehensive cleaning and hygiene maintenance. This includes sweeping, dusting, mopping, scrubbing, polishing, refuse handling and ensuring the general neatness and hygiene of the assigned area. The Household Aid is also responsible for the cleaning and safe keeping of machinery used within the unit. Beyond routine cleaning, the post requires strict adherence to safety measures, including Occupational Health and Safety policies and Infection Prevention Control measures. This is especially critical in a theatre environment where infection control is paramount. The role also involves assisting the housekeeping supervisor with broader duties such as controlling cleaning and household equipment, caring for and controlling linen, and serving meals to patients. These responsibilities require a good working knowledge of stock, assets, linen and equipment control, as well as the ability to support the supervisor and follow established cleaning practices and policies.

Candidates should possess basic knowledge of cleaning equipment and be comfortable working as part of a team under supervision. The department values reliability, attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety. It is important to note that no payment of any kind is required when applying for this post, and candidates may be subjected to a competency test as part of the selection process. The remuneration package includes an annual salary supplemented by service benefits such as a 13th cheque, employer contributions to a pension fund, and allowances for housing and medical aid. This is an entry-level support role that offers stability and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to patient care within a public health facility.