Rhodes University Housekeeper Vacancy 2026 | Permanent Housekeeping Job in Makhanda
Published: June 2026
Rhodes University is inviting suitably qualified candidates to apply for a Housekeeper (Grade 9) position within its Residential Operations Division in Makhanda (Grahamstown), Eastern Cape. This permanent opportunity is ideal for experienced housekeeping professionals with supervisory experience who are passionate about maintaining high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and hospitality.
The successful candidate will play a key role in supervising housekeeping staff and ensuring that university residences, guest facilities, and associated services are maintained to the highest standards.
Vacancy Details
Position
Housekeeper (Grade 9)
Employer
Rhodes University
Division
Residential Operations – Housekeeping Services
Location
📍 Makhanda (Grahamstown), Eastern Cape
Employment Type
Permanent
Closing Date
📅 17 June 2026
Experience Level
Entry Level to Experienced Housekeeping Supervisor
About the Department
The Housekeeping Services Department is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene throughout university residences, transit housing, janitorial services, laundry services, sewing rooms, and upholstery services.
The department provides hospitality services that support both students and university guests while contributing to a positive learning and living environment.
Main Purpose of the Job
The Housekeeper will supervise cleaning staff and coordinate housekeeping services within assigned residence halls and university facilities.
The role involves planning cleaning activities, supervising staff, maintaining facilities, reporting maintenance issues, and ensuring excellent service delivery throughout assigned areas.
Key Responsibilities
Staff Supervision
- Supervise housekeeping employees
- Allocate daily cleaning duties
- Monitor staff performance
- Ensure cleaning standards are maintained
- Support and guide housekeeping teams
Housekeeping Management
- Coordinate cleaning operations
- Maintain hygiene standards
- Inspect assigned facilities
- Ensure efficient cleaning services
- Monitor housekeeping schedules
Residence and Guest Services
- Support student residences
- Ensure guest accommodation standards
- Maintain common areas
- Promote a welcoming environment
Maintenance Coordination
- Submit maintenance requests
- Follow up on repairs
- Monitor building conditions
- Report damages and defects
- Assist with facility upkeep
Minimum Requirements
Applicants should have:
✅ Grade 12 (Matric)
✅ Approximately 4 years of relevant housekeeping experience
✅ Supervisory experience within cleaning or housekeeping environments
✅ Good communication skills
✅ Leadership abilities
✅ Ability to manage teams effectively
✅ Strong organisational skills
Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
- Leadership skills
- Housekeeping knowledge
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Team management
- Problem-solving abilities
- Customer service orientation
- Communication skills
- Reliability and professionalism
Why Work at Rhodes University?
Rhodes University offers employees:
- Permanent employment opportunities
- Medical aid benefits
- Retirement fund benefits
- Generous parental leave
- Professional development opportunities
- Fee remission benefits for employees and dependants
- Supportive working environment
- Career growth opportunities
How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply through the official Rhodes University recruitment portal before the closing date.
Documents Required
- Comprehensive CV
- Certified Qualifications
- Certified ID Copy
- Contactable References
- Supporting Documents
10 Housekeeper Interview Questions and Answers
1. What housekeeping experience do you have?
Answer: I have experience supervising cleaning teams, maintaining hygiene standards, and ensuring facilities remain clean and organised.
2. Why do you want to work at Rhodes University?
Answer: Rhodes University has a strong reputation and offers opportunities for professional growth while contributing to a positive environment for students and guests.
3. How do you manage a housekeeping team?
Answer: I allocate tasks clearly, monitor performance, provide support, and ensure cleaning standards are consistently maintained.
4. How do you ensure high cleaning standards?
Answer: Through regular inspections, staff supervision, training, and attention to detail.
5. What would you do if a staff member was not completing duties properly?
Answer: I would address the issue professionally, provide guidance, and monitor improvement.
6. How do you prioritise housekeeping tasks?
Answer: I focus on high-traffic and high-priority areas first while ensuring all scheduled duties are completed.
7. Why is hygiene important in residence facilities?
Answer: Good hygiene promotes health, safety, comfort, and a positive living environment.
8. How would you handle a maintenance issue?
Answer: I would report it immediately and follow up until it is resolved.
9. What are your strengths?
Answer: Leadership, organisation, reliability, communication, and attention to detail.
10. Why should Rhodes University hire you?
Answer: I am experienced, dependable, organised, and committed to maintaining excellent housekeeping standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
Yes, this is a permanent position.
Where is the job located?
The position is based in Makhanda (Grahamstown), Eastern Cape.
What qualification is required?
Applicants must have Grade 12 and relevant housekeeping experience.
Is supervisory experience required?
Yes, the role involves supervising housekeeping staff and coordinating cleaning services.
Final Thoughts
The Rhodes University Housekeeper Vacancy 2026 is an excellent opportunity for experienced housekeeping professionals seeking a stable career within a respected higher education institution. If you have leadership abilities, housekeeping experience, and a passion for maintaining exceptional standards, this could be the perfect next step in your career.
