WARD ATTENDANT (X13 POSTS)

The Department of Health in Limpopo is filling thirteen Ward Attendant posts spread across a number of public hospitals in the province, including Hayani, Thabazimbi, Jane Furse, Lebowakgomo, Elim, Malamulele, Mankweng, Maphutha Malatji, Nkhensani, Musina and WF Knobel. This is a physically demanding support role that sits at the heart of ward operations, ensuring that patient care environments remain clean, hygienic, safe and well organised. Ward Attendants work closely with nursing and other healthcare staff to maintain a dignified and comfortable setting for patients, and are expected to perform a wide range of cleaning and household duties within the ward. As part of the role, you may also be required to supervise subordinates, so the ability to lead by example and work effectively in a team is essential.

To be considered for the position, applicants must hold a National Senior Certificate, Grade 12, Matric, or ABET/AET at NQF level 4 as recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority. Previous exposure to a hospital environment and patient care will count as a strong advantage, although it is not a formal requirement. The job demands a high level of physical fitness, as you will need to lift patients of varying weights, move and lift heavy equipment and supplies, and operate heavy-duty laundry and cleaning machinery. You must also be willing to work with human excreta, blood and other bodily fluids, and to assist in lifting corpses as part of the duties. The ability to stand for up to twelve hours per day and to work shifts is non-negotiable, including night duty, weekends and public holidays, and you must be available to work extra hours at short notice.

The main duties of the Ward Attendant include rendering cleaning services across the ward, ensuring the safekeeping and proper use of cleaning equipment, carrying out general household activities, and performing sluice functions which involve the handling and disposal of human waste and bodily fluids. A key part of the role is maintaining strict infection, prevention and control measures to protect both patients and staff. Knowledge of the Batho Pele Principles, the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993, and waste management practices is required, along with good communication and customer care skills, basic literacy, integrity, and a willingness to engage in job-focused learning. Teamwork is vital, as you will be part of a larger healthcare team.

This is a permanent public service position within the provincial Department of Health. Successful applicants will be subject to the department’s recruitment processes. Applications must be complete, and any foreign qualifications need to be evaluated by SAQA. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews and will be required to submit certified copies of relevant qualifications and identification. All shortlisted candidates will also undergo pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment, as part of the selection process. If you are fit, reliable, compassionate and committed to upholding high standards of hygiene and patient care, this role offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the functioning of Limpopo’s public hospitals.