Senior Electrician post level 9): Engineering and Sustainability

Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations -> Facilities Management -> University Estates Contract Type Permanent Occupational Level Junior Management Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date 9/9/2026 Description KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

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INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!

To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
• A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
• Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).

Duties and responsibilities:

Solar Maintenance Management

• Perform routine inspections, testing, and preventative maintenance of solar PV systems, inverters, batteries, and associated infrastructure.
• Identify and rectify faults to optimise system performance and energy generation.
• Coordinate repairs and component replacements with service providers.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules.
• Monitor compliance with applicable electrical standards, manufacturer specifications, and safety regulations.
• Compile quotations, evaluate service provider submissions, and oversee implementation of approved works.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, reports, and performance data.
• Ensure compliance with SANS 10142 regulations.

Fire Detection System Maintenance

• Inspect, test, and maintain fire detection and alarm systems in accordance with statutory requirements.
• Monitor and maintain fire panels through the NIMBUS monitoring platform.
• Coordinate servicing, certification processes, and compliance audits.
• Investigate faults and ensure corrective action is implemented promptly.
• Maintain inspection records and compliance documentation.
• Assist with fire safety awareness and training initiatives for staff, students, and contractors.
• Compile quotations, evaluate submissions, and manage implementation processes.

Metering Infrastructure Management

• Install, inspect, test, and maintain electrical metering systems.
• Verify meter accuracy and investigate discrepancies.
• Collect, analyse, and report metering data to support billing, monitoring, and energy management objectives.
• Ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate maintenance and upgrades through approved procurement processes.
• Compile quotations, evaluate submissions, and oversee implementation.

Microgrid Monitoring and Optimisation

• Monitor microgrid operations, including generation, storage, and load distribution systems.
• Investigate alarms, abnormalities, and operational inefficiencies.
• Analyse operational data and recommend optimisation initiatives.
• Coordinate fault resolution and system improvements with internal stakeholders and service providers.
• Compile operational and performance reports.
• Ensure compliance with SANS 10142 regulations.

UPS System Management

• Manage the operation, maintenance, testing, and reliability of UPS systems.
• Ensure uninterrupted backup power availability for critical infrastructure.
• Monitor battery health, load capacities, and overall system performance.
• Coordinate battery replacement programmes and system upgrades.
• Maintain compliance with safety standards and documentation requirements.
• Compile quotations, evaluate submissions, and oversee implementation.

High Voltage Switching Operations

• Perform authorised high-voltage switching activities in accordance with approved procedures and permits.
• Ensure strict compliance with lockout, tagout, isolation, and safety protocols.
• Coordinate switching activities with maintenance, operational, and project teams.
• Respond effectively to electrical emergencies and fault conditions.
• Maintain accurate switching logs and safety records.
• Ensure compliance with SANS 10142 and Occupational Health and Safety Regulations for High Voltage Systems (OHSR-HVS).

Maintenance and Project Integration

• Act as the technical liaison between maintenance and project teams.
• Provide maintenance and operational input during project planning, design, and implementation phases.
• Facilitate seamless project handovers into operational environments.
• Identify lifecycle, maintenance, and operational risks associated with new installations.
• Support commissioning, testing, and acceptance of completed projects.
• Evaluate quotations and manage implementation processes.

Mentorship and Skills Development

• Provide technical leadership, supervision, and mentorship to electricians and apprentices.
• Support training, skills development, and professional growth initiatives.
• Assess competency levels and provide ongoing performance feedback.
• Promote safe work practices and compliance with electrical regulations.
• Assist in developing training programmes and workplace learning opportunities.

Inherent Job Requirements:

• Matric/Grade 12 (attach a copy).
• Electrical N3 Certificate or higher (attach a copy).
• Minimum of two (2) years’ relevant working experience as a qualified electrician.
• Qualified Installation Electrician (attach proof of qualification).
• Valid Wireman’s Licence (attach proof).
• Valid driver’s licence (attach proof).

Recommendations:

• Experience in solar photovoltaic systems, electrical distribution systems, fire detection systems, metering systems, UPS systems, and microgrid operations.
• Experience in contractor management, quotation evaluation, and project coordination.
• Experience in high-voltage switching operations and electrical compliance management.
• Training in Occupational Health and Safety regulations and electrical safety practices.
• SANS 10142 compliance knowledge and application.
• Three (3) to five (5) years’ relevant working experience as an electrician.

Competencies Key Competencies Required:

• Results Orientated:

• The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.

• The ability to deal calmly and effectively with high stress situations.

• Strategic Thinking:

• The ability to deal with several activities at a time.

• The ability to carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.

• Business Acumen:

• The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.

• Leading:

• The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others.

• The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.

• Building Coalitions:

• The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.

• The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision.

Assumption of duties:

As soon as possible.

Closing date:

9 September 2026

Salary:

The salary is available on request.

Fringe benefits:

(Subject to specific conditions): pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, service bonus and stud