Assistant Director (Project Planner) (post level 7): Facilities Planning

The University of the Free State (UFS) is seeking a dedicated and skilled Assistant Director (Project Planner) to join their Facilities Planning team. This permanent, full-time position is based at the Bloemfontein Campus and offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the university’s infrastructure development and strategic objectives.

About the Role

As an Assistant Director (Project Planner), you will play a crucial role in the planning and execution of facilities projects across the UFS Bloemfontein Campus. You will be responsible for ensuring projects align with the university’s master plan, meet user needs effectively, and comply with all relevant standards and regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Planning & Initiation: Identify user needs, assess project feasibility and operational impact, develop comprehensive project briefs (including objectives, scope, timelines, and budget estimates), and manage minor projects from start to finish. Ensure all infrastructure aspects (electricity, HVAC, plumbing, IT, safety, environmental compliance) and furniture requirements are thoroughly considered.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitate essential discussions with internal departments, faculties, and external stakeholders. You will act as a vital link between users, consultants, and management, ensuring clear communication of project expectations and deliverables.
• Coordination: Prepare detailed briefing documents and participate actively in scoping meetings. Review proposals for compliance with university specifications and collaborate closely with various parties to achieve functional, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions. Integrate all building services, utilities, safety systems, and accessibility considerations into project plans.
• Project Monitoring & Reporting: Oversee project rollout, track progress, and monitor milestones. Ensure project deliverables meet quality standards and adhere to timelines. Identify potential risks and implement effective mitigation strategies, providing regular project status updates to all relevant parties.
• Compliance & Quality Assurance: Guarantee that all projects comply with university specifications, safety regulations (including the OHS Act), environmental standards, and relevant statutory requirements. Ensure proper procurement documentation and record-keeping, promoting energy efficiency, sustainability, and alignment with industry best practices.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Proactively suggest creative, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions for facilities projects. Benchmark planning practices against industry standards to continuously improve processes and recommend new technologies and methodologies that enhance project outcomes.

Who We’re Looking For

To succeed in this role, you should possess the following qualifications and experience:

Inherent Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) in Project Management, Construction Management, Architecture, or Quantity Surveying.
• A minimum of three (3) years of proven experience in infrastructure or facilities project planning.
• A valid South African driver’s licence (a copy of which must be attached to your application).

Recommendations (Advantageous):

• Registration with a related professional body (proof of registration should be attached).
• Sound knowledge of building regulations, SANS standards, the OHS Act, and environmental compliance.
• Understanding of sustainable building practices and energy efficiency principles.
• Previous experience working within a higher education environment.

Key Competencies:

• Results-Oriented: The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and adapt to evolving situations.
• Strategic Thinking: The ability to manage multiple activities simultaneously, carefully analyse information, and use logic to address work-related issues and problems.
• Business Acumen: The ability to adhere strictly to rules and follow work regulations, with proficiency in using MS Office.
• Leading: The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others.
• Building Coalitions: Skilled in negotiation, influence, and persuasion, and the ability to interact effectively with others to establish strong personal connections.

Benefits

The University of the Free State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Pension scheme
• Medical aid scheme
• Group life insurance
• Housing allowance
• Leave and sick leave
• Service bonus
• Study benefits

Application Process

Interested candidates who meet the requirements are invited to apply online. Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.

Required Documents:

To ensure your application is complete, please submit ALL documents listed under the “Inherent Requirements” section, as well as the following standard documentation:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Certified copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (if you hold foreign qualifications, SAQA accreditation is required).
• A certified copy of your South African Identity Document (ID) or passport for foreign nationals.
• Confirmation of employment from your current or most recent employer (e.g., a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip). This applies to external applicants only.
• A copy of your valid driver’s licence.
• Proof of professional body registration (if applicable, as per recommendations).

Important: The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.

Closing Date: 21 September 2025

Assumption of Duties: As soon as possible.

The University of the Free State is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and redress. Preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups, including persons with disabilities.

If you are not contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, please consider your application unsuccessful. The University reserves the right not to fill this position.