HR Officer (3 year contract)

Rhodes University Makhanda, Eastern Cape Contract Posted 28 July 2026 - Closing Date 11 August 2026

Department other Minimum experience Mid-Senior Company primary industry Higher Education Job functional area Human Resources

HR Officer (3 yearcontract)

Division of People and Culture

The Division of People and Culture is inviting suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Main Objectives

To support the Senior HR Practitioners and the Recruitment Partner in providing a valued and professional HR service, specifically through the execution of excellent HR administrative and basic HR professional services. The HR Officer and the Senior HR Practitioner will operate across units. These units report to the Managers: Recruitment and Staffing, who in turn report to the Senior Manager: Recruitment and Staffing.

The Requirement

B.Degree (with a relevant major, preferably in Industrial Psychology or Human Resources) plus approximately three years’ relevant experience, where such experience includes: -

• Administration with a strong focus on implementing electronic administrative systems and processes.
• At least one year of experience in HR administration within an environment utilising an HR information technology system.
• Implementing structures, systems, and processes to ensure service delivery of a high quality that is valued by others.
• Exposure to most, if not all, areas of HR (for example, Recruitment and Selection, Employee Relations, Training and Development, Remuneration, Performance Management, HR IT systems, and Well-being) will be a considerable advantage.
• At least 24 months of experience in a pressurised, high-volume administrative environment, dealing with a large staff complement (minimum of 1000 employees).
• Previous experience within the Higher Education sector will be an advantage

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: -
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za or 0466038753.

Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):

• Short-listing meeting scheduled for the 28th of August 2026.
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 11):

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R424 059

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R569 518

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date: 11 August 2026

This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are:

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.