

Lecturer Job ID: 6237 – (1928)
Are you passionate about law and education? The University of the Free State (UFS), a leading institution in South Africa, is looking for a dedicated Lecturer to join its Faculty of Law, specifically in the Department of Mercantile Law.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an academic professional to contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, conduct impactful research, and guide the next generation of legal minds in Bloemfontein.
About the University of the Free State (UFS)
The University of the Free State is committed to academic excellence, innovative research, and community engagement. Located in Bloemfontein, UFS offers a vibrant and supportive academic environment for both staff and students.
Your Role as a Lecturer in Mercantile Law
As a Lecturer in the Department of Mercantile Law, your key responsibilities will include:
- Teaching and assessing both undergraduate and postgraduate law students.
- Supervising LLB, LLM, LLD, and PhD students in their academic research.
- Producing high-quality research outputs for publication in accredited journals.
- Participating in community engagement initiatives where appropriate.
What You Need to Apply (Inherent Requirements)
To be considered for this vital academic role, you must meet the following criteria:
For a Permanent Appointment:
- An LLD or PhD degree in Mercantile Law or a closely related discipline (NQF Level 10).
For a Five-Year Contract Appointment:
- A Master’s degree in Mercantile Law or a related discipline (NQF Level 9).
- Important Note: If appointed on contract, you must successfully obtain an LLD or PhD (NQF Level 10) in Mercantile Law or a related discipline within this five-year period to convert to a permanent position.
All Applicants Must Also Have:
- Proven experience in delivering poster or oral presentations at academic conferences or equivalent activities.
- Evidence of produced manuscripts that demonstrate potential for publication in accredited journals.
- A strong and comprehensive academic record (please attach your full academic transcript with your application).
Beneficial Skills and Experience (Recommendations)
- Experience in supervising postgraduate students.
- Specific knowledge of Corporate Law or Labour Law will be a significant advantage.
Key Competencies We Are Looking For
We are seeking candidates who demonstrate the following essential competencies:
- Results Orientated: The ability to set high standards, establish challenging goals, and work diligently to achieve success, overcoming obstacles when necessary.
- Strategic Thinking: Capable of managing multiple activities simultaneously and approaching work issues with creativity and an open mind.
- Business Acumen: Strict adherence to rules and work regulations, combined with proficiency in using MS Office applications.
- Leading: The ability to lead, take charge of situations, offer opinions and clear directions, and foster a cooperative, good-natured team environment.
- Building Coalitions: Strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with others, establish personal connections, and make decisions through consultation and collaboration.
Benefits of Working at UFS
The University of the Free State offers a comprehensive benefits package for its employees (subject to specific conditions), which typically includes:
- A robust pension scheme.
- Access to a medical aid scheme.
- Group life insurance.
- A housing allowance.
- Generous leave and sick leave provisions.
- A service bonus.
- Study benefits for continuous professional development.
How to Apply for this Lecturer Position
Please note: All applications MUST be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website. Applications submitted via any other platform will NOT be considered.
To apply, please visit the UFS vacancy portal. The online system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid any upload issues, we strongly recommend merging some or all of your documents into fewer files before submitting.
Incomplete applications will NOT be considered! Ensure you submit ALL documents listed under the “Inherent Requirements” section, along with 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, please ensure you include your SAQA accreditation.
- A copy of your South African Identity Document (ID) or passport (for foreign nationals).
- Confirmation of employment (e.g., a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or a recent payslip) from your current or most recent employer. This applies only to external applicants.
Application Details
- Closing Date: 25 September 2025
- Assumption of Duties: As soon as possible
- Salary: Available upon request.
Enquiries
Should you have any questions regarding this position, please feel free to contact the UFS recruitment team:
- Phone: 051 401 2979 or 051 401 9848 / 9814 / 9813
- Email: JardineS@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za
Important Information
The University of the Free State is a designated employer fully committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity, and redress. We strive to achieve our equity targets in accordance with the University’s Employment Equity Plan and goals. Preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups, including individuals with disabilities.
The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). Any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights afforded to data subjects under POPIA.
The University reserves the right not to fill this post. Only applications from candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position will be considered. Incomplete applications will not be processed. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, please assume that your application was unsuccessful.
To apply for this job please visit ufs.hua.hrsmart.com.