University Of Mpumalanga Director: New Infrastructure Projects Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) is a comprehensive institution dedicated to providing a relevant, engaged, and sustainable learning environment. It focuses on achieving outstanding academic excellence that addresses the skills and economic needs of Mpumalanga and the broader country.

UMP is inviting applications for the crucial role of Director: New Infrastructure Projects, situated within the New Infrastructure Projects -> Project Management organisational unit. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the management and implementation of construction projects, ensuring they align with approved contracts and programmes, and that all contractor and professional service orders are issued in accordance with the University's governance framework.

Minimum Requirements

• Qualifications:
• A relevant 4-year Bachelor Degree in Built Environment.
• A Master's degree in Business Management.
• Professional Registration:
• Professional Registration with one of the Built Environment Councils.
• Experience:
• A minimum of nine (9) years of work experience in Construction Project Management.
• This experience must include involvement with a Built Environment professional body, implementation of the NEC form of construction contracts, and leading the management of large-scale construction projects.
• Key Competencies:
• Leadership and management skills.
• Proficiency in Construction Project Management.
• Good understanding of the NEC Form of contract, including management/administration of NEC3 Engineering and Construction Contracts.
• Knowledge of construction processes and construction design processes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills, especially Excel.
• Results-oriented, with strong planning, programming, organising, and attention to detail abilities.
• Problem-solving skills and a commitment to a collaborative work ethic.
• Ability to manage change and function effectively within a high-performing institutional environment.
• Demonstrated ability to perform under pressure and adapt to working hours beyond a typical schedule.
• Ability to work effectively with senior management and other relevant stakeholders.
• Personal Attributes:
• People-oriented, hard worker, responsible, reliable, creative, and innovative.
• Respectful, honest, punctual, and understands protocol.
• Proven attributes of transparency, integrity, and teamwork.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement and monitor construction projects in accordance with the approved bi-weekly construction projects schedule.
• Maintain and revise construction contract programmes in line with approved contract requirements.
• Monitor that payments recommended by Project Managers to contractors and built environment professionals are in accordance with progress made at various construction sites.
• Monitor full compliance of construction projects to regulatory requirements, such as Occupational Health and Safety and Environmental Management Act.
• Develop and maintain Annual Performance Plans (APP) in accordance with the University's reporting requirements.
• Report project progress on construction projects timeously to various statutory bodies, including Manco, FPIC (Facilities, Planning Infrastructure Committee), the Vice Chancellor, and the Department of Higher Education (DHET) and Training.

What the Work Involves

As the Director: New Infrastructure Projects, you will be at the forefront of the University's development, overseeing the delivery of new construction initiatives. Your daily work will involve actively implementing and monitoring construction projects, ensuring they stay on track with approved schedules and contract terms. This includes managing construction contracts, ensuring programmes are maintained and revised as needed, and critically, verifying that all payments to contractors and built environment professionals accurately reflect the progress achieved on various construction sites.

A significant part of the role will be ensuring stringent compliance with all regulatory requirements, including Occupational Health and Safety and Environmental Management Act standards across all projects. You will also be responsible for developing and maintaining Annual Performance Plans for new infrastructure, and preparing timely progress reports for various high-level university committees (Manco, FPIC), the Vice Chancellor, and the Department of Higher Education (DHET). This role demands a blend of strategic oversight and detailed project management, working with project managers, external contractors, built environment professionals, and senior university leadership within an office environment and during site visits.

How to Apply

Candidates who meet the minimum requirements are invited to apply online.

• Visit the official University of Mpumalanga career portal at: https://ump.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSeeker/applyTo/410
• Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date of 06 September 2026.