Groundsman Vacancy

Join Dr Harry Surtie Hospital as a Groundsman

The Northern Cape Department of Health is inviting applications from hardworking and dedicated individuals for the position of Groundsman (Ref No: NCDOH 76/2026) at Dr Harry Surtie Hospital. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking stable government employment while contributing to the maintenance and beautification of a healthcare facility.

The successful candidate will receive a salary of R144,204 per annum (Level 02) and will be responsible for maintaining hospital grounds, gardens, outdoor facilities, and surrounding areas. The role is vital in ensuring that the hospital environment remains clean, safe, attractive, and welcoming for patients, visitors, and staff.

If you enjoy outdoor work, gardening, landscaping, and maintaining public spaces, this opportunity could be the perfect fit for you.

Position Details

Job Title

Groundsman

Reference Number

NCDOH 76/2026

Number of Posts

1 Post

Centre

Dr Harry Surtie Hospital

Salary

R144,204 per annum (Level 02)

Department

Northern Cape Department of Health

Employment Type

Permanent

About Dr Harry Surtie Hospital

Dr Harry Surtie Hospital is an important healthcare institution serving communities within the Northern Cape Province. The hospital provides a wide range of healthcare services and relies on a clean, safe, and well-maintained environment to support patient care and staff wellbeing.

The appearance and upkeep of hospital grounds contribute significantly to creating a positive atmosphere for patients, visitors, and employees. Well-maintained gardens and outdoor spaces enhance the hospital environment and promote a sense of comfort and professionalism.

As a Groundsman, you will play a key role in preserving these standards.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirement:

Educational Qualification

  • ABET (Grade 1–9)

Experience

  • No previous work experience required.

This vacancy is ideal for entry-level applicants seeking employment within the public sector.

Also See:

Purpose of the Position

The primary purpose of the Groundsman position is to maintain the hospital premises, gardens, and surrounding areas to ensure cleanliness, safety, and aesthetic appeal.

The successful candidate will assist with gardening, landscaping, grounds maintenance, waste removal, and equipment upkeep.

Through these duties, the Groundsman helps create a healthy and welcoming environment that supports healthcare service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will perform various grounds maintenance and gardening duties.

Maintenance of Premises and Surroundings

One of the primary responsibilities is maintaining the hospital grounds and surrounding areas.

This includes:

  • Keeping outdoor areas neat and tidy.
  • Ensuring pathways remain clean.
  • Supporting the overall appearance of the hospital.
  • Maintaining safe outdoor environments.

A clean and attractive environment reflects positively on the healthcare facility.

Cleaning Premises and Surroundings

The Groundsman will assist in maintaining cleanliness throughout outdoor areas.

Responsibilities include:

  • Removing litter.
  • Sweeping walkways.
  • Cleaning designated outdoor spaces.
  • Ensuring grounds remain presentable.

Regular cleaning contributes to patient satisfaction and public confidence.

Emptying Dirt Bins

Waste management forms part of the position.

The successful candidate will:

  • Empty outdoor bins.
  • Remove waste regularly.
  • Maintain cleanliness around disposal areas.
  • Support environmental hygiene standards.

Proper waste disposal helps prevent pests and maintains a healthy environment.

Garden Maintenance

Gardening is one of the core responsibilities of the role.

Maintaining Gardens

The Groundsman will ensure that hospital gardens remain attractive and well-maintained.

Responsibilities include:

  • Caring for plants.
  • Maintaining flower beds.
  • Supporting landscaping activities.
  • Preserving garden health.

Beautiful gardens contribute to a pleasant healthcare environment.

Watering the Garden

Plants require consistent care to thrive.

The successful candidate will:

  • Water flowers.
  • Water shrubs.
  • Water trees.
  • Monitor plant health.

Proper watering supports healthy growth and enhances the appearance of the hospital grounds.

Pruning and Trimming

The Groundsman will be responsible for maintaining plants and trees.

Duties include:

  • Pruning flowers.
  • Trimming shrubs.
  • Maintaining trees.
  • Removing dead branches.

Regular pruning encourages healthy plant growth and improves safety.

Grass Cutting and Lawn Maintenance

Well-maintained lawns are essential for the appearance of healthcare facilities.

Mowing the Grass

The successful candidate will:

  • Cut grass regularly.
  • Maintain lawns.
  • Ensure grounds remain neat.
  • Improve the overall appearance of the premises.

Lawn Care

Additional responsibilities may include:

  • Removing grass clippings.
  • Monitoring lawn health.
  • Supporting landscaping improvements.

Healthy lawns contribute to a professional and welcoming environment.

Weed Removal

Weeds can negatively affect the appearance and health of gardens.

The Groundsman will:

  • Remove weeds.
  • Prevent weed growth.
  • Maintain flower beds.
  • Protect plants from competition.

Consistent weed control improves garden quality and appearance.

Removal of Garden Refuse

The successful candidate will collect and dispose of:

  • Fallen leaves.
  • Branches.
  • Grass cuttings.
  • Garden waste.

Keeping grounds free from debris supports cleanliness and safety.

Application of Insecticides

The role includes assisting with pest management activities.

Responsibilities include:

  • Applying insecticides safely.
  • Following safety guidelines.
  • Protecting plants from pests.
  • Supporting healthy garden growth.

Proper pest control helps maintain attractive and healthy landscapes.

Soil Cultivation

Healthy gardens depend on proper soil management.

The Groundsman will assist with:

  • Cultivating soil.
  • Preparing planting areas.
  • Supporting tree growth.
  • Improving garden conditions.

Well-maintained soil contributes to stronger and healthier plants.

Maintaining Gardening Equipment

The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring gardening tools remain operational and safe.

Equipment Maintenance

Responsibilities include:

  • Cleaning gardening equipment.
  • Storing tools properly.
  • Inspecting equipment regularly.
  • Supporting equipment longevity.

Proper maintenance reduces repair costs and improves efficiency.

Reporting Equipment Malfunctions

The Groundsman must promptly report:

  • Damaged equipment.
  • Mechanical failures.
  • Safety concerns.
  • Maintenance requirements.

Early reporting helps prevent disruptions to grounds maintenance activities.

Repairing Minor Equipment Defects

Where appropriate, the successful candidate may perform minor repairs on gardening equipment and tools.

This may include:

  • Tightening loose components.
  • Replacing basic parts.
  • Cleaning blocked equipment.
  • Supporting equipment functionality.

Importance of Grounds Maintenance in Healthcare Facilities

Hospital grounds play a significant role in creating a positive environment.

Well-maintained outdoor spaces contribute to:

Patient Wellbeing

Clean and attractive surroundings can help create a more comforting atmosphere for patients and their families.

Safety

Proper maintenance reduces hazards such as overgrown vegetation, debris, and slippery surfaces.

Professional Image

Visitors often form first impressions based on the appearance of the facility.

Environmental Benefits

Healthy gardens improve air quality and support environmental sustainability.

Skills and Personal Qualities Required

Although no experience is required, successful candidates should demonstrate the following qualities:

Hardworking Nature

The role requires individuals who are willing to work outdoors and perform physical tasks consistently.

Reliability

Healthcare facilities depend on support staff to maintain standards every day.

Attention to Detail

Grounds maintenance requires careful observation and quality workmanship.

Physical Fitness

The position may involve:

  • Lifting equipment.
  • Walking long distances.
  • Bending and kneeling.
  • Working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Responsibility

The successful candidate must care for departmental equipment and maintain high standards of work.

Teamwork

Groundsmen often work alongside maintenance teams and support personnel.

Benefits of Government Employment

Working for the Northern Cape Department of Health offers several benefits.

Competitive Salary

Successful candidates will earn R144,204 per annum.

Stable Employment

Government positions provide job security and structured working conditions.

Career Development

Employees may access training opportunities and gain valuable workplace experience.

Meaningful Contribution

Grounds maintenance staff help create environments that support healthcare delivery.

Public Service Experience

The role provides an opportunity to build a career within the public sector.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal applicant is someone who:

  • Holds an ABET qualification.
  • Enjoys gardening and outdoor work.
  • Is physically fit.
  • Pays attention to detail.
  • Works well independently and within a team.
  • Demonstrates reliability and professionalism.
  • Takes pride in maintaining clean and attractive environments.
  • Is willing to learn and develop new skills.
  • Understands the importance of public service.
  • Maintains a positive work ethic.

Enquiries

For further information regarding this vacancy, applicants may contact:

Dr Harry Surtie Hospital

Mr JP Berend

Telephone: (054) 332 9094

Conclusion

The Groundsman Vacancy (Ref No: NCDOH 76/2026) at Dr Harry Surtie Hospital presents an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking stable government employment within the Northern Cape Department of Health. With a salary of R144,204 per annum, no previous experience required, and the opportunity to contribute to maintaining a clean, safe, and attractive healthcare environment, this position offers both purpose and career potential.

If you are hardworking, reliable, enjoy outdoor work, and take pride in maintaining beautiful surroundings, you are encouraged to apply for this rewarding opportunity.

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