0
0
JOB ADVERTISEMENT
Post Number: 13/56
Position: Groundsman (X6 Posts)
Reference Number: AFBHPST/12/13/26/02
Salary: R144 024 – R169 656 per annum (Level 02)
Closing Date: 05 May 2026
Centre: Air Force Base Hoedspruit, Limpopo, South Africa
Overview
The Department of Defence invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for the position of Groundsman at Air Force Base Hoedspruit. A total of six posts are available for individuals who are willing to contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of outdoor spaces within a disciplined and structured working environment.
This opportunity is ideal for entry-level candidates who are eager to gain experience in grounds maintenance and environmental care. No prior experience is required, making it suitable for individuals looking to enter the workforce or build foundational skills in landscaping and maintenance services.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this role is to maintain and enhance the appearance and functionality of outdoor areas within the base. The Groundsman will be responsible for performing routine gardening and maintenance tasks to ensure that all designated areas are clean, safe, and visually appealing.
The successful candidates will contribute to the overall upkeep of the base environment by maintaining gardens, lawns, and surrounding grounds in accordance with established standards.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A minimum of an ABET qualification or equivalent
- No prior work experience is required
Required Skills and Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate the following skills and attributes:
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with others
- Basic knowledge of health and safety practices in a work environment
- Understanding of basic maintenance of machinery with low complexity
- Familiarity with the use of hand tools and cleaning equipment
- Ability to operate cleaning machines where required
- Ability to perform routine and repetitive tasks efficiently
- Capability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Physical fitness and willingness to perform manual labour
Key Responsibilities
The Groundsman will be responsible for carrying out a range of gardening and maintenance duties, including but not limited to the following:
- Cultivating and maintaining garden areas to ensure they remain healthy and presentable
- Preparing soil for planting by digging, loosening, and conditioning as required
- Planting and maintaining flowers, shrubs, and other vegetation
- Fertilizing, watering, weeding, and pruning plants to promote healthy growth
- Mowing lawns and trimming edges to maintain a neat and uniform appearance
- Irrigating lawns and garden areas as required to ensure proper hydration
- Loading and unloading equipment, tools, and materials needed for grounds maintenance
- Removing refuse and waste from the terrain and ensuring proper disposal
- Loading refuse onto trucks for transportation to designated dumping or disposal sites
- Assisting with the burning of refuse where permitted and in accordance with safety regulations
- Maintaining cleanliness and orderliness of all assigned areas within the unit
- Ensuring that all tools and equipment are used safely and stored properly after use
- Reporting any faults, damages, or maintenance issues to the relevant supervisor
- Adhering to all health and safety regulations while performing duties
Working Environment
This position is based at Air Force Base Hoedspruit and operates within a military environment that emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and adherence to procedures. The role involves outdoor work in varying weather conditions and requires physical effort, including lifting, bending, and prolonged periods of standing or walking.
The successful candidates must be prepared to perform physically demanding tasks and maintain a consistent level of productivity and attention to detail throughout the workday.
Enquiries
For further information regarding this position, interested applicants may contact:
- Maj M.M. Visagie
- Capt. P. Ratheko
- Telephone: (015) 799 2924 or 2387
Application Process
Applications must be submitted using one of the following methods:
Postal Applications:
Department of Defence
Air Force Base Hoedspruit
Hoedspruit
1380
Email Applications:
Prince.Ratheko@dod.mil.za
Hand Delivery:
Main Gate
Golf 1 and Golf 8
Applicants must include a comprehensive curriculum vitae and certified copies of their qualifications. It is the responsibility of applicants to ensure that their applications are submitted before the closing date.
Important Notes
- The closing date for applications is 05 May 2026
- Applications received after the closing date will not be considered
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- The Department of Defence reserves the right not to fill the posts
- Applicants may be subject to verification processes as part of the selection procedure
Closing Statement
This position provides an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in grounds maintenance and environmental care to gain valuable experience in a structured and professional setting. The Groundsman plays a vital role in ensuring that the base environment remains clean, safe, and visually appealing.
Candidates who are hardworking, reliable, and willing to contribute to a team-oriented environment are encouraged to apply. This role offers a solid foundation for building practical skills and gaining experience in maintenance and landscaping within the public sector.