Employer: City of Ekurhuleni
Department: Environmental Resource & Waste Management (ERWM)
Assignment Type: Permanent Appointment
Closing Date: 20 January 2026
Location: City of Ekurhuleni, Gauteng
Remuneration: R191,556.00 – R262,764.00 per annum (basic salary, plus applicable benefits)
Introduction
The City of Ekurhuleni, one of South Africa’s key metropolitan municipalities, is committed to creating a clean, safe, healthy, and visually appealing urban environment for all residents, businesses, and visitors. As part of this commitment, the Environmental Resource & Waste Management Department continuously implements programmes aimed at improving environmental sustainability, public health, and urban aesthetics.
To strengthen its operational capacity within the Urban Beautification function, the City of Ekurhuleni invites suitably qualified, physically fit, and dedicated individuals to apply for the permanent position of General Assistant (Urban Beautification), reference number ERWM21752. This role is essential in supporting daily operational activities that contribute directly to cleaner public spaces, well-maintained green areas, and dignified municipal services.
This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are passionate about practical work, enjoy outdoor environments, and are willing to contribute meaningfully to community development and environmental care.
Purpose of the Position
The primary purpose of the General Assistant (Urban Beautification) role is to provide hands-on operational support to municipal teams responsible for maintaining public spaces, landscaped areas, cemeteries, and related facilities within the City of Ekurhuleni. The incumbent will assist with a wide range of physical and manual tasks aimed at ensuring that municipal environments remain clean, functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing.
The position requires a high level of physical endurance, discipline, and the ability to follow instructions accurately. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of a designated supervisor or team leader and will be expected to perform duties in line with municipal policies, safety regulations, and service delivery standards.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements in order to be considered:
- A minimum of Grade 10 qualification
- Proven physical ability to perform all required manual and operational duties
- Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
- Basic understanding of workplace health and safety principles
- Readiness to perform tasks that may be physically demanding
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee appointment, as selection will be based on suitability, compliance with employment equity targets, and operational needs of the department.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
The General Assistant (Urban Beautification) will be expected to carry out a broad range of duties that support municipal operations. These duties include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Equipment Maintenance and Safekeeping
- Assist in the proper handling, use, cleaning, and storage of municipal tools and equipment
- Ensure that all equipment allocated for daily tasks is used responsibly and returned in good condition
- Report any damaged, defective, or missing equipment to the supervisor immediately
- Support inventory control by ensuring tools and materials are accounted for
2. Waste Handling and Loading Activities
- Load branches, garden refuse, rubble, and other waste materials onto municipal vehicles
- Assist with the removal of green waste from parks, sidewalks, cemeteries, and other public spaces
- Ensure waste is handled in a safe and environmentally responsible manner
- Support cleanliness initiatives by keeping work areas free from litter and debris
3. Application of Herbicides and Pesticides
- Execute instructions relating to the application of herbicides and pesticides under supervision
- Assist with the preparation and safe handling of chemicals used for weed and pest control
- Adhere strictly to safety procedures, usage guidelines, and environmental regulations
- Wear and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE) as required
4. Cleaning and Weeding of Flowerbeds
- Perform routine cleaning of flowerbeds, landscaped areas, and paved surfaces
- Remove weeds, dead plants, and unwanted vegetation
- Assist in maintaining neat and orderly public gardens and green spaces
- Support seasonal maintenance activities to enhance urban aesthetics
5. Planting, Pruning, and Landscaping Support
- Assist with the planting of trees, shrubs, and flowers in designated areas
- Support pruning activities to maintain healthy plant growth and public safety
- Carry out basic landscaping tasks as directed by supervisors
- Help preserve biodiversity and enhance the visual appeal of municipal spaces
6. Cemetery and Burial Support Duties
- Assist with the digging and filling of graves for new burials, reserved graves, exhumations, and second or third interments
- Operate or assist with the use of equipment such as jackhammers where required
- Ensure that all burial-related activities are conducted respectfully and in accordance with municipal regulations
- Maintain cleanliness and order within cemetery grounds
7. General Support and Ad Hoc Duties
- Perform any other reasonable work-related tasks as instructed by the supervisor
- Assist colleagues during peak operational periods or emergency situations
- Support community clean-up campaigns and special municipal projects
- Uphold the City’s service delivery standards at all times
Working Conditions
This position involves physically demanding work and requires the incumbent to:
- Work outdoors for extended periods
- Perform manual labour, including lifting, digging, bending, and carrying
- Operate in varying weather conditions such as heat, cold, or rain
- Use hand tools, machinery, and equipment safely
- Comply with occupational health and safety regulations
Applicants should be aware that this role may involve exposure to dust, noise, chemicals, and other environmental factors associated with urban maintenance work.
Performance Management
The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance contract in accordance with Council resolutions. Performance will be monitored and evaluated based on adherence to job responsibilities, productivity, teamwork, compliance with safety standards, and contribution to service delivery objectives.
Employment Equity
The City of Ekurhuleni subscribes to the principles of the Employment Equity Act and is committed to promoting representativity and equal opportunity within the workplace. Appointments will be made in line with the municipality’s Employment Equity Plan and operational requirements.
The City reserves the right to:
- Appoint a suitable candidate
- Not appoint any candidate
- Make a lateral appointment
- Defer the appointment process if necessary
Application Process
Interested candidates whose qualifications, experience, and personal attributes align with the requirements of this position are invited to apply through the online application system available on the City of Ekurhuleni’s official website:
Website: www.ekurhuleni.gov.za
Applicants must ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete. Supporting documentation may be requested, including proof of qualifications and confirmation of the applicable NQF level.
Enquiries
For further information regarding this position or the application process, candidates may contact:
Tel: 0860 54 3000
Important Notice to Applicants
- If applicants do not receive feedback within six (6) weeks after the closing date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful.
- Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
- The City of Ekurhuleni is committed to transparency, fairness, and excellence in its recruitment processes.
Conclusion
The General Assistant (Urban Beautification) position offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute directly to the cleanliness, sustainability, and visual appeal of the City of Ekurhuleni. This role is well suited to individuals who take pride in practical work, value teamwork, and are motivated by serving their community.
By joining the Environmental Resource & Waste Management Department, successful candidates will become part of a workforce dedicated to improving quality of life through effective service delivery, environmental stewardship, and responsible urban management.
Qualified and motivated individuals are encouraged to apply before the closing date and take the first step toward a stable and rewarding career within local government.
