Vacant Position – Supervisor: Housekeeping

Contract type: Permanent
Job Level: Junior
Work Location: Carnarvon, Northern Cape
Closing Date: 20 May 2026

The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities.

The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) implements South Africa’s strategic investments in radio astronomy, including the international Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, which covers a broad range of engineering and scientific activities. SARAO is a National Facility of the National Research Foundation, and incorporates radio astronomy and space geodesy instruments and programmes such as the MeerKAT telescope in the Karoo, the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory (HartRAO) in Gauteng, the Africa Radio Astronomy Programme across nine African countries, as well as associated human capital development and commercialisation endeavours.

The Housekeeping Supervisor is responsible for providing day-to-day direct supervision, guidance, and training to housekeeping team on an assigned shift as well as to ensure that all housekeeping areas of responsibility are run effectively, in line with standards and business requirements.

Key Responsibilities:
* Develop and implement annual work plan for housekeeper.
* Develop a monthly work schedule for housekeepers.
* Co-ordinating daily activities as per scheduled plan.
* Develop and/or implement operating procedures and standards.
* Identify cleaning needs and potential safety hazards or repair needed, and notifies appropriate individuals for resolution.
* Overseeing the daily operations of Housekeeping by assigning rotation cleaning duties (e.g. steam clean carpets) as required.
* Inspect guest rooms, public areas, and all housekeeping job assignments to ensure cleanliness, quality, and the departmental standards are being met.
* Oversees the removal, replacement, and stocking of linen/terry and room amenities.
* Ensure effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.
* Manage the stock control of all cleaning products, chemicals and laundry.
* Ensure all tasks are performed in compliance with safety regulations and building codes.
* Identify potential hazards and address them promptly.
* Interviewing, hire and training housekeeping employees in the procedures and techniques.
* Customer service orientation to contribute to a positive guest experience through cleanliness.

Key Requirements:
Qualification:
* Grade 12
* Certificate (NQF: 5) Hospitality Management or related field
* Valid Drivers License

Experience:
* 3 years’ experience in all aspects of housekeeping
* 2 years supervisory experience
* Computer Literate

Knowledge:
* Knowledge of inventory management for cleaning supplies and equipment
* Knowledge and understanding of budgets PFMA Supply Chain Management Health and Safety.

Additional Notes:
* Proven work experience as a Housekeeping Supervisor or a similar role in the hospitality industry.
* Demonstrated leadership experience in managing and supervising housekeeping staff.
* Familiarity with safety and sanitation guidelines and regulations related to housekeeping.
* Strong leadership and management skills to effectively lead and motivate a housekeeping team.
* Excellent organizational skills to effectively manage tasks, schedules and resources.
* Attention to detail to ensure high standards of cleanliness and hygiene are consistently met.
* Effective communication skills to liaise with staff, management and other departments.
* Ability to train and mentor housekeeping staff to enhance their skills and performance.
* Problem-solving skills to address and resolve any housekeeping-related issues promptly.
* Customer service orientation to contribute to a positive guest experience through cleanliness.
* Oral, written & presentation communication skills

Information:
The website www.nrf.ac.za provides more details on the NRF initiatives and activities.

Applications:
Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by logging to https://ess.nrf.ac.za/Account/Recruitment and apply online. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant􀂷s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.

Closing Date: 20 May 2026

The NRF offers a challenging career and competitive remuneration package which is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

The NRF is committed to employment equity and redress and the appointment to the position will be made in line with the NRF Employment Equity Plan.

The NRF reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Correspondence will be sent to short-listed candidates only