FACULTY OF VETERINARY SCIENCE
ONDERSTEPOORT VETERINARY ACADEMIC HOSPITAL (OVAH)
UNIT COORDINATOR: OVAH THEATRE AND CENTRAL STERILISING DEPARTMENT (CSD)
PEROMNES POST LEVEL 7
In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the above vacancy.
The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.
The Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital seeks a veterinary nurse to join our veterinary team, specifically as a Unit Coordinator in the OVAH Theatre.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Coordinating the optimum functioning of the OVAH Theatre and CSD;
General theatre management and practice with emphasis on proper knowledge of surgical procedures, correct handling and care of instruments, theatre hygiene, maintenance of equipment, stock control, orders (pharmaceuticals, medical, prostheses, implants and biosecurity cleaning products);
Preparing and assisting with small, large animals and wildlife surgical procedures (pre-, intra-, and postoperative);
Managing CSD to function optimally; this includes reporting and overseeing maintenance of equipment and instruments, and facilities-related damages;
Rendering outstanding client service;
Supervising support staff, evaluating staff performance and arranging continued training and education;
Ensuring open communication within the section and between the sections and the Hospital Manager;
Managing expenditure control and submitting inputs towards the capital equipment budget;
Assisting with cost estimates for procedures;
Ensuring that clinic hygiene and biosecurity is of the highest standard;
Assisting with continuous informal training of students and student nurses;
Performing relief duties in other sections in the OVAH; and
Performing shift duties.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (DipCurAnim or Dip Vet Nursing) or Degree in Vet Nursing
Registered as a veterinary nurse with the South African Veterinary Council; and
Four years’ experience in veterinary nursing and at least one year in general clinic management.
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):
Knowledge of large animal nursing procedures, biosecurity measures and procedures and handling of all types of small animals;
Meticulous about detail, professional and a responsible person;
Appropriate language and communication skills;
Organising skills and a strong service orientation;
Physical mobility;
Ability to work under pressure and without supervision;
Computer literacy; and
Ability to work weekends and outside normal working hours when required for continuous service delivery in the hospital.
ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:
Previous and/or current experience of one year or more in a high-pressure clinic environment where multiple patients are in the operating room, and procedures take place simultaneously; and
Experience in managing/supervising staff.
PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.
The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines. UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.
Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za
In applying for this post, please attach:
A comprehensive CV;
Certified copies of qualifications and SAVC registration certificate; and
Name, email addresses, and telephone numbers of three referees whom we have permission to contact.
CLOSING DATE: 13 September 2026
Late applications and/or those that do not comply with the minimum requirements will not be considered.
ENQUIRIES: For application-related enquiries, contact Ms Granny Maseko,
[email protected], and for enquiries related to the post content, contact Sr Lizette Neethling on (012) 529 8174.
Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 30 November 2026, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.
In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to, candidates from underrepresented designated groups. All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply.
By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information, including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, and current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.
The University of Pretoria reserves the right not to make an appointment to the posts as advertised.
