Assistant Officer: AV Technical Support Engineer

Are you a hands-on tech enthusiast with a knack for audio-visual systems? The University of the Free State (UFS) is looking for two dedicated Assistant Officers to join their Information and Communications Technology Services (ICTS) team as AV Technical Support Engineers. This permanent position is based at the Qwaqwa Campus and offers an exciting opportunity to provide essential technical support for hardware and software, ensuring seamless AV operations across the university.

About the University of the Free State (UFS)

The University of the Free State (UFS) is a diverse and inclusive institution committed to academic excellence and societal impact. Located in the Free State province of South Africa, UFS strives to create a stimulating environment for learning, teaching, and research. Joining UFS means becoming part of a community dedicated to innovation and development.

What You’ll Do (Duties and Responsibilities)

As an AV Technical Support Engineer, your main responsibilities will include:

• Providing technical support for AV hardware and software, including troubleshooting and resolving issues.
• Delivering efficient and effective customer service to all users.
• Offering after-hours AV technical support when required.
• Installing, deploying, and relocating audio-visual equipment and software (including system and productivity software).
• Troubleshooting and resolving hardware or software-related incidents.
• Researching, testing, and evaluating new technologies as requested.
• Providing technical onsite support during special events both on and off campus.
• Classifying and prioritising incidents and service requests to maintain high service levels.
• Ensuring AV and streaming support for various campus events and activities.
• Performing preventative maintenance on AV equipment and venue workstations.

Relationship Support

• Ensuring client satisfaction by adhering to Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
• Maintaining clear and effective communication with stakeholders.
• Building and nurturing professional relationships with colleagues and external parties.
• Liaising with the Lead: ICTS Audio Visual Deployment and Maintenance Management to escalate issues.

Quality Assurance & Professional Development

• Adhering to and contributing to relevant policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines.
• Supporting the review and drafting of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Fulfilling performance management responsibilities.
• Staying current with industry trends and developments through continuous learning.

What You’ll Need (Inherent Requirements)

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following essential criteria:

• A Grade 12 Certificate or a National Vocational Certificate (NQF Level 4).
• At least one (1) year of experience in hardware and software technical support.
• A valid driver’s licence (a copy must be attached to your application).

Bonus Points If You Have (Recommendations)

While not essential, candidates with any of the following professional certifications will have an advantage (please attach proof):

• Comptia A+
• Comptia N+
• Crestron certification
• Molex Certification
• Dante AV networking
• Kramer AV certified

Required Competencies

We are looking for candidates who demonstrate:

• Results Orientated: Ability to set high standards, achieve goals, and be reliable and dependable.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to plan work effectively and analyse information logically to solve problems.
• Business Acumen: Ability to adhere to rules, follow regulations strictly, and be proficient in MS Office.
• Leading: Ability to maintain high personal motivation and enthusiasm, and work cooperatively with others.
• Building Coalitions: Ability to interact and connect with people, and make decisions through consultation and collaboration.

Important Application Information

KINDLY NOTE: Applications can ONLY be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website. Applications sent via any other platform will not be considered. The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!

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

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

Salary & Benefits

The annual remuneration package, including benefits, ranges from R 231,699.90 to R 388,426.59 per annum. Your salary will depend on the budget available, your relevant work experience, and qualifications.

Fringe benefits (subject to specific conditions) include a pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, a service bonus, and study benefits.

Location & Start Date

• Location: Qwaqwa Campus – Qwaqwa, Free State, South Africa.
• Assumption of Duties: 01 January 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.
• Closing Date: 20 November 2025.

Enquiries

For any enquiries regarding this position, please contact: 051 401 2876 or email [email protected] or [email protected]. You can also call 051 401 7659 / 9813 for assistance.

Important Notes from UFS

The UFS is a designated employer committed to diversity and redress, striving to achieve its equity targets in accordance with the University’s Employment Equity Plan. Preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups, including candidates with disabilities.

The University processes personal information in line with POPIA. All personal information provided will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with data subject rights under POPIA.

UFS reserves the right not to fill this post and will only consider applications from candidates who meet all inherent requirements. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you do not hear from the University within six weeks of the closing date, please assume your application was unsuccessful.