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Laundry Assistant – Laundry Facility (Border Region)
Position: Laundry Assistant
Location: Life East London Laundry
Reporting to: Laundry Manager (Dalubuhle Sigabi)
Introduction
An opportunity has become available for a Laundry Assistant at the Life East London Laundry facility. This role is essential in ensuring the continuous supply of clean, hygienic linen to Life Healthcare hospitals across the East London region. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining high standards of cleanliness, efficiency, and operational excellence within the laundry unit.
The Laundry Assistant will be responsible for supporting the full laundry process, from receiving soiled linen to delivering clean, properly processed items. This position requires attention to detail, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and a strong commitment to maintaining hygiene and safety standards in line with healthcare requirements.
Key Responsibilities (Critical Outputs)
The Laundry Assistant will be expected to perform a range of duties that contribute to the effective functioning of the laundry facility. These include:
- Sorting and Counting Linen:
Accurately count and sort all incoming dirty linen according to type, condition, and processing requirements. This step is critical in ensuring proper handling and tracking of hospital linen. - Record Keeping:
Maintain precise and up-to-date records of all linen processed. This includes documenting quantities received, cleaned, and dispatched, ensuring accountability and traceability at all times. - Linen Processing:
Carry out washing, drying, folding, and packing of linen within designated areas. Adhere strictly to operational procedures to ensure linen is processed efficiently and hygienically. - Quality Control and Stock Management:
Inspect linen for damage or wear and ensure only high-quality items are returned for use. Assist in monitoring stock levels and reporting shortages or discrepancies to management. - Operation of Equipment:
Safely operate industrial laundry machinery, including washers, dryers, and pressing equipment. Ensure machines are used correctly and report any faults or maintenance issues promptly. - Communication and Liaison:
Work closely with supervisors and management to ensure smooth workflow and address any operational challenges. Maintain clear and professional communication at all times. - Housekeeping:
Keep the work environment clean, organized, and free from hazards. Good housekeeping practices are essential to maintain hygiene standards and operational efficiency. - Health and Safety Compliance:
Follow all health and safety regulations, particularly those relevant to healthcare laundry services. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) where required and ensure compliance with infection control standards. - Waste Management:
Properly dispose of waste materials in accordance with established protocols. This includes handling contaminated linen and ensuring environmentally responsible disposal practices.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
- A Grade 12 certificate or equivalent qualification
- Ability to understand, speak, read, and write English effectively
- Willingness and ability to work flexible hours as required by operational demands
- Strong numerical accuracy when recording figures and handling counts
- Ability to work under pressure and in physically demanding conditions
- Professional appearance and adherence to high standards of personal hygiene
- Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work well within a team
Competencies
The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following competencies:
- Problem-Solving and Analytical Thinking:
Ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and implement practical solutions within the work environment. - Attention to Detail:
High level of accuracy in counting, sorting, and record keeping to ensure operational integrity. - Resilience:
Capacity to remain effective and composed in a demanding and fast-paced setting. - Respect for Diversity:
Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures. - Professional and Technical Proficiency:
Competence in performing job-related tasks and operating laundry equipment efficiently. - Excellence Orientation:
Commitment to delivering high-quality results and continuously improving performance. - Relationship Building:
Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with colleagues and management. - Customer Responsiveness:
Understanding the importance of providing reliable service to healthcare facilities that depend on timely linen supply. - Organisational Awareness:
Understanding of how individual responsibilities contribute to broader organisational goals. - Action Orientation:
Proactive approach to tasks and willingness to take initiative when required. - Ethical Behaviour:
Demonstrating integrity, honesty, and adherence to organisational values at all times.
Additional Information
Internal applicants are encouraged to discuss their intention to apply with their line manager before submitting an application. External candidates meeting the requirements are also welcome to apply.
Life Healthcare is committed to employment equity and transformation and is an equal opportunity employer. Preference may be given to candidates in line with the organisation’s employment equity plan.
Application Details
Interested candidates should submit their applications via email to:
Recruitment.Beaconbay@lifehealthcare.co.za
Closing Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Applicants who do not receive feedback within two weeks after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Conclusion
This position offers an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector by ensuring the availability of clean and hygienic linen, which is vital for patient care and safety. The Laundry Assistant plays a crucial support role within the healthcare system, requiring dedication, reliability, and a strong work ethic. Candidates who meet the requirements and are prepared to work in a structured and demanding environment are encouraged to apply.