A clean, safe, and hygienic healthcare environment is essential for protecting patients, staff, and visitors. Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand, plays a vital role in supporting healthcare facilities through professional services and operational excellence. As part of this commitment, the organisation is currently seeking a Cleaner on a six-month fixed-term contract to support daily operations at the Edendale Lay Ecumenical Center Clinic in Pietermaritzburg. Cleaner 6-month fixed-term contract
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, reliable, and passionate about maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in a healthcare setting. The role contributes directly to infection prevention, patient comfort, and overall workplace safety. Below is a comprehensive overview of the position, responsibilities, requirements, and application process to help potential applicants understand the role clearly and prepare a strong application.
About Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd
Wits Health Consortium (WHC) is a respected organisation that supports health research, training, and service delivery across South Africa. As a subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand, WHC upholds high standards of professionalism, accountability, and ethical conduct.
The organisation works closely with public health facilities, research institutions, and communities to ensure efficient operations and quality healthcare services. Employees at WHC are part of an environment that values teamwork, compliance with health regulations, and continuous improvement.
Job Overview
Job Title: Cleaner
Contract Type: Fixed-term (6 months)
Advert Reference Number: MP – 602 – Cleaner
Work Location: Edendale Lay Ecumenical Center Clinic, Edendale, Pietermaritzburg
Closing Date: 22 December 2025
Main Purpose of the Role
The primary purpose of this position is to maintain a clean, hygienic, and safe working environment within the clinic. Cleaners play a critical role in healthcare facilities by reducing health risks, supporting infection prevention measures, and ensuring that all areas remain welcoming and functional.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
The Cleaner will be responsible for a wide range of daily, weekly, and periodic cleaning tasks. These duties are essential to ensuring that clinic operations run smoothly and that health and safety standards are consistently met.
General Cleaning and Housekeeping
- Perform daily cleaning and housekeeping duties across assigned areas.
- Sweep and mop floors in the morning and afternoon as per duty roster.
- Dust office furniture, equipment, and fixtures to prevent dirt build-up.
- Clean glass doors, mirrors, and windows to maintain a professional appearance.
- Polish and sanitise desks, cupboards, chairs, and tables.
Office and Equipment Hygiene
- Sanitise frequently touched surfaces such as telephones, light switches, sockets, skirting boards, computers, printers, shredders, and whiteboards.
- Ensure office equipment is kept free of dust and cleaned according to hygiene standards.
- Clean office windows and refrigerators every second week.
Waste Management
- Empty all waste bins daily and dispose of waste according to site procedures.
- Ensure waste areas remain clean and odour-free.
- Follow safety guidelines when handling waste to prevent contamination or injury.
Kitchen and Refreshment Area Duties
- Ensure the kitchen is clean at all times.
- Wash dishes, cups, spoons, and other utensils after use and pack them away neatly.
- Monitor cleanliness of kitchen appliances, including the fridge, microwave, kettle, and toaster.
- Safely store cleaning materials and kitchen supplies.
- Serve refreshments at scheduled times for staff, patients, meetings, and training sessions.
- Set up crockery and refreshments for boardroom meetings and events.
- Tidy and clean areas after meetings or functions.
Bathroom and Facility Maintenance
- Replenish bathroom supplies such as toilet paper, soap, and hand towels in the morning and afternoon.
- Ensure bathrooms are clean, sanitised, and well maintained throughout the day.
- Report any defects, leaks, or maintenance issues promptly to support health and safety compliance.
Stock Monitoring and Reporting
- Monitor usage and stock levels of cleaning materials, groceries, and supplies.
- Communicate timeously when stock levels are low.
- Report items that require ordering, repair, replacement, or procurement.
Health, Safety, and Compliance
- Adhere to all applicable health and safety policies and procedures.
- Follow Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) principles at all times.
- Report hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.
- Perform additional tasks as required by the duty roster or supervisor.
Minimum Education and Training Requirements
Applicants should meet the following minimum requirements:
- Education:
- Grade 12 (Matric) is preferred, or
- A minimum of Grade 10 or equivalent qualification.
- Training and Skills:
- Basic training or experience in cleaning, hygiene, or housekeeping (formal or informal).
- Understanding of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) principles will be an advantage.
- Basic knowledge of food handling or refreshment preparation is beneficial but not mandatory.
Desired Skills and Personal Attributes
To succeed in this role, candidates should demonstrate the following qualities:
- Attention to detail and high standards of cleanliness.
- Ability to follow instructions and work according to schedules.
- Reliability, punctuality, and a strong sense of responsibility.
- Good communication skills and the ability to report issues clearly.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Respect for confidentiality and professional conduct in a healthcare environment.
Employment Equity Statement
In line with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and Wits Health Consortium’s Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants from designated groups. The organisation is committed to promoting equal opportunity and diversity within the workplace.
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the closing date by submitting a detailed CV.
Submit Applications To:
Contact Person: Mamosa Phashe
Email: vacancies15@witshealth.co.za
Telephone: 086 566 6659
Applicants are advised to ensure that their CV includes:
- Personal contact details
- Educational qualifications
- Relevant work experience
- Any training related to cleaning, hygiene, or healthcare environments
- Referees (where available)
Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted.
Why This Role Is Important
Cleaners in healthcare facilities play a crucial role that goes beyond basic cleaning. Their work supports infection control, patient safety, and the overall effectiveness of clinical services. By maintaining hygienic spaces, cleaners help reduce the spread of illness and create an environment where healthcare professionals can focus on patient care.
This position also offers valuable work experience within a reputable organisation connected to one of South Africa’s leading universities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is this position permanent?
No. This is a fixed-term contract for six months.
2. Where is the job located?
The position is based at Edendale Lay Ecumenical Center Clinic in Edendale, Pietermaritzburg.
3. What is the minimum qualification required?
A minimum of Grade 10 is acceptable, but Grade 12 (Matric) is preferred.
4. Is prior cleaning experience required?
Basic cleaning or housekeeping experience is beneficial. Formal training is an advantage but not mandatory.
5. Do I need healthcare experience?
Healthcare experience is helpful but not required. Understanding Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) principles will be an added advantage.
6. How do I apply?
Submit a detailed CV via email to vacancies15@witshealth.co.za before 22 December 2025.
7. Will I be working with patients?
Yes. Part of the role includes serving patients with refreshments during scheduled times.
8. Does the organisation support employment equity?
Yes. Wits Health Consortium follows the Employment Equity Act and prioritises fair and inclusive hiring practices.
Final Notes
This Cleaner position offers an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a healthcare environment while gaining experience with a well-established organisation. Applicants who value cleanliness, teamwork, and community health are encouraged to apply early and ensure that all application details are accurate and complete.
Amina Sechaba is a passionate career writer and employment researcher dedicated to helping South Africans find better job opportunities and prepare for successful careers. With years of experience in content writing and career development, Amina creates informative articles, application guides, and interview tips that empower job seekers to reach their full potential. Through her work with Submit Your CV, she aims to simplify the job application process and provide reliable information on learnerships, internships, and career advice for both students and professionals.