The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) is currently recruiting a Maintenance Assistant to join its Facilities Management Division in Pretoria. This permanent position presents an excellent opportunity for experienced maintenance professionals who have practical skills in building maintenance, grounds maintenance, plumbing, electrical repairs, carpentry, and general facilities support.
As one of South Africa’s leading research institutions, the SAMRC plays a critical role in advancing health research and innovation. To support its operations, the organization requires a dedicated Maintenance Assistant who can help ensure that buildings, infrastructure, and surrounding grounds remain safe, functional, and well-maintained.
This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on technical work, have strong problem-solving abilities, and are committed to maintaining high standards of workplace safety and facility management.
About the Position
The Maintenance Assistant will be responsible for supporting the day-to-day maintenance of buildings and grounds at the SAMRC Pretoria offices. The successful candidate will work closely with the Facilities Handyman and Facilities Management team to ensure that all infrastructure is maintained efficiently and professionally.
This role involves carrying out routine maintenance tasks, responding to repair requirements, supporting asset management activities, and ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
The position offers long-term employment stability and valuable experience within a respected public research institution.
Job Details
- Position: Maintenance Assistant
- Reference Number: R 861A
- Employer: South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)
- Department: Facilities Management
- Job Type: Permanent
- Industry: Civil and Building Maintenance
- Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
- Number of Positions: 1
- Salary: R125,928 per annum (Cost to Company)
- Closing Date: 05 June 2026
Role Purpose
The primary purpose of this role is to support the maintenance and upkeep of SAMRC buildings, infrastructure, and grounds.
The Maintenance Assistant will help ensure that facilities remain safe, operational, and visually appealing while supporting the organization’s broader operational objectives.
The successful candidate will be expected to work independently on assigned maintenance tasks while collaborating with facilities staff when required.
This role requires practical maintenance knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to respond effectively to daily operational needs.
Key Areas of Responsibility
Building Maintenance Support
A major component of the role involves assisting with the maintenance of buildings and related infrastructure.
Responsibilities may include:
- Performing routine building inspections
- Identifying maintenance issues
- Carrying out minor repairs
- Assisting with preventative maintenance activities
- Reporting defects requiring specialist attention
- Supporting infrastructure improvement projects
The successful candidate will contribute to maintaining a safe and functional working environment for staff and visitors.
Grounds Maintenance
The Maintenance Assistant will also assist with maintaining the external grounds surrounding the SAMRC offices.
Duties may include:
- General grounds upkeep
- Cleaning and maintenance of outdoor areas
- Monitoring facility surroundings
- Assisting with landscaping support activities
- Reporting environmental and safety concerns
Candidates with previous experience maintaining large properties, institutional grounds, or commercial facilities may have an advantage.
Plumbing Support
The role requires basic plumbing knowledge and practical maintenance skills.
Responsibilities may include:
- Repairing leaking taps
- Replacing damaged fittings
- Assisting with water system maintenance
- Conducting basic plumbing inspections
- Reporting major plumbing faults
A practical understanding of plumbing systems will contribute to effective facility operations.
Electrical Maintenance Assistance
The successful candidate should possess basic electrical maintenance experience.
Responsibilities may include:
- Replacing light fittings
- Conducting basic electrical inspections
- Identifying electrical faults
- Assisting with maintenance of electrical systems
- Reporting major electrical issues to qualified personnel
Knowledge of electrical safety procedures is essential for this role.
Carpentry and General Repairs
The Maintenance Assistant will also support general building repairs and carpentry-related tasks.
These may include:
- Repairing doors and windows
- Fixing furniture and fittings
- Conducting minor carpentry repairs
- Supporting facility refurbishment projects
- Maintaining building fixtures and fittings
Strong practical skills and attention to detail are important for ensuring quality workmanship.
Air Conditioning Maintenance Support
Candidates should have basic experience with air conditioning systems.
Responsibilities may include:
- Conducting visual inspections
- Reporting system faults
- Assisting with preventative maintenance activities
- Supporting contractors during servicing and repairs
This knowledge helps ensure comfortable working conditions within the facility.
Facilities Management Support Functions
The Maintenance Assistant will also contribute to broader facilities management operations.
Additional responsibilities include:
- Assisting with asset transfers
- Supporting inventory movement activities
- Providing general facilities support services
- Assisting with logistical requirements
- Supporting operational continuity within the Facilities Management Division
Flexibility and a willingness to perform a variety of tasks are important aspects of the position.
Relief Duties
An interesting feature of this role is the requirement to provide support in other operational areas when necessary.
The successful candidate may be required to:
- Perform Driver duties during absences
- Assist with postal services
- Support store management activities
- Help with internal deliveries and collections
This responsibility requires versatility and the ability to adapt to changing operational requirements.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
Maintaining compliance with workplace safety standards is a critical aspect of the role.
The Maintenance Assistant must:
- Follow health and safety regulations
- Comply with environmental requirements
- Adhere to organizational policies and procedures
- Identify workplace hazards
- Report unsafe conditions immediately
- Promote safe work practices
A strong commitment to occupational health and safety is essential.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Educational Requirements
- Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent qualification
Experience Requirements
- Minimum of 3 to 5 years relevant maintenance experience
Technical Requirements
Applicants should have practical experience in:
- Electrical maintenance
- Plumbing repairs
- Carpentry work
- Air conditioning systems
- General building maintenance
Driver’s License
Candidates must possess:
- Valid Code 8 or Code 10 Driver’s License
A valid driver’s license is essential due to the transportation and relief duties associated with the position.
Advantageous Experience
Preference may be given to candidates with:
- Experience maintaining large facilities
- Experience working on extensive grounds and properties
- Institutional maintenance experience
- Government or public sector facilities experience
- Facilities management support experience
These additional skills can enhance a candidate’s suitability for the role.
Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
Technical Skills
- Building maintenance knowledge
- Basic electrical troubleshooting
- Plumbing repair skills
- Carpentry abilities
- Air conditioning maintenance awareness
- Equipment handling knowledge
Personal Attributes
- Reliability
- Accountability
- Problem-solving ability
- Good communication skills
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Professional conduct
- Adaptability
These qualities contribute to effective performance within a facilities management environment.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
Working for the South African Medical Research Council offers an opportunity to contribute to an organization that plays an important role in advancing public health research.
Benefits of this opportunity include:
- Permanent employment
- Stable work environment
- Valuable facilities management experience
- Skills development opportunities
- Exposure to diverse maintenance functions
- Professional growth potential
- Experience within a respected national institution
For candidates seeking long-term career stability in maintenance and facilities management, this position offers excellent value.
The facilities management industry continues to offer strong demand for skilled maintenance professionals across South Africa.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare a professional application that highlights their maintenance experience, technical skills, and relevant qualifications.
Applications should include:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Certified copy of driver’s license
- Relevant supporting documentation
- Contactable references
Applicants should ensure all information provided is accurate and up to date before submission.
Early applications are encouraged to avoid missing the deadline.
Application Deadline
Closing Date: 05 June 2026
Applications received after the closing date may not be considered.
