Wits University has officially announced new employment opportunities for General Worker positions for 2026, based at the Pullen Nature Reserve in Mpumalanga. As reported by ONLINELEARNERSHIP, these roles are ideal for hardworking individuals who enjoy outdoor, hands-on work while contributing to environmental conservation, education, and academic research.
This opportunity falls under the School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences (APES) and plays a vital role in supporting teaching, research, and conservation activities at one of South Africa’s most important university-managed nature reserves.
About Wits University and Pullen Nature Reserve
The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) is one of South Africa’s leading research institutions, internationally recognised for academic excellence, innovation, and social impact. The Pullen Nature Reserve, located approximately 35 km south-east of Mbombela in the Krokodilpoortberge region, is a key research and teaching facility within the savanna biome of Mpumalanga.
The reserve supports:
- Undergraduate and postgraduate field courses
- Ecological and conservation research
- Environmental science training
- Biodiversity and land management initiatives
According to ONLINELEARNERSHIP, General Workers are essential to keeping the reserve functional, safe, and ecologically sustainable.
Job Overview: Wits University General Worker Jobs 2026
- Organisation: Wits University – School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
- Position Title: General Worker (AD.17)
- Location: Pullen Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga
- Closing Date: 31 December 2025
- Employment Type: Full-time, on-site
- Accommodation: Provided on the reserve
This role is physically demanding and requires a reliable individual willing to live on-site and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Key Responsibilities
1. Bush and Veld Management
- Clearing invasive alien plant species
- Managing natural vegetation and veld conditions
- Assisting with controlled burning under supervision
- Maintaining firebreaks and cleared zones
- Stacking and removing cut vegetation
2. Road and Infrastructure Maintenance
- Repairing internal roads by filling potholes and clearing drainage
- Mowing and clearing vegetation along pathways
- Fence maintenance and vegetation control along fence lines
- Ensuring safe, clean, and hazard-free grounds
3. Vehicle and Machinery Operation
- Operating tractors, mowers, and basic machinery
- Using welding machines and hand tools when required
- Conducting routine machinery and vehicle checks
- Reporting mechanical faults promptly
4. Building and Facility Maintenance
- Minor building repairs and painting
- Maintaining water tanks, gutters, and basic plumbing
- Ensuring accommodation facilities remain clean and functional
- Assisting with small construction and maintenance projects
5. General Duties
- Supporting the Field Station Manager with daily operations
- Preparing facilities for students, researchers, and visitors
- Maintaining tools and equipment safely
- Adhering to health, safety, and environmental regulations
Required Qualifications and Experience
To qualify for ONLINELEARNERSHIP Wits University General Worker Jobs 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent NQF Level / N4 qualification
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in general labour, farm work, or outdoor maintenance
- Knowledge of bush clearing and veld management
- Basic building maintenance skills
- Valid South African driver’s license
- Basic computer skills for emails and leave applications
- Basic numeracy and writing ability
Advantageous Skills (Recommended)
- Experience with controlled burning operations
- Previous work at a nature reserve or farm
- Knowledge of indigenous and invasive plant species
- Chainsaw and tractor operation skills
- First Aid Level 1 certification
Working Conditions
- On-site accommodation provided
- Heavy manual labour including lifting, digging, and clearing
- Outdoor work in hot and variable weather conditions
- Average of 22 working days per month
- Weekend and public holiday work may be required
- Strict adherence to safety protocols
Why Apply Through ONLINELEARNERSHIP?
According to ONLINELEARNERSHIP, Wits University General Worker Jobs 2026 offer more than just employment. They provide a pathway into conservation, environmental management, and academic support services within a globally respected university environment.
Benefits include:
- Hands-on conservation and fieldwork experience
- Skill development in land management and machinery use
- Exposure to academic research environments
- Long-term career growth opportunities within Wits University
- Meaningful contribution to environmental sustainability
How to Apply for Wits University General Worker Jobs 2026
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed and updated CV
- Certified copies of qualifications and ID
- Contact details of three professional referees
Application Platforms:
- External applicants: Apply via the Wits i-Recruitment platform
- Internal applicants: Apply through Oracle iWits Self-Service Applications
Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA before submission.
Closing Date: 31 December 2025
Wits University supports employment equity, and preference will be given to candidates from underrepresented groups.
FAQs: Wits University General Worker Jobs 2026
1. Do I need prior experience?
Yes. A minimum of 2 years’ experience in general labour or veld maintenance is required.
2. Is accommodation provided?
Yes. On-site accommodation is available at Pullen Nature Reserve.
3. Will I work weekends or public holidays?
Yes. The role may require weekend and public holiday work.
4. What qualification is required?
Grade 12 (Matric) or an equivalent NQF Level/N4 qualification.
5. Is the job physically demanding?
Yes. It involves heavy lifting, digging, clearing, and outdoor work.
6. Will training be provided?
Yes. On-the-job training for machinery and equipment is provided.
7. Is a driver’s license mandatory?
Yes. A valid driver’s license is required.
8. Can this role lead to other opportunities?
Yes. Experience gained can lead to further roles within Wits University.
9. Can foreign applicants apply?
Yes, but foreign qualifications must be SAQA-evaluated.
10. Where should I apply?
Apply via Wits i-Recruitment or Oracle iWits for internal applicants.
Conclusion
The ONLINELEARNERSHIP Wits University General Worker Jobs 2026 present a rare opportunity to work in a professional conservation and academic environment while building practical, transferable skills. With on-site accommodation, strong institutional support, and meaningful environmental impact, this role is ideal for dedicated individuals seeking stable employment and long-term growth.
For more verified job updates, learnerships, and career opportunities, continue following ONLINELEARNERSHIP.
