Position: Office Cleaner

Position Type: Full time, permanent

Department: General & Administration

Location: Salt River, Cape Town

Experience: 3 years minimum

Watchmaker Genomics is a global life science company based in Boulder, Colorado with an R&D and Production facility in Cape Town, South Africa. Our team is passionate about innovation and values collaboration, creativity, and scientific rigor. We believe that the intersection of biology, engineering, and computer science presents exciting opportunities for developing novel technologies that promote research and improve human health. Watchmaker Genomics specializes in the design, development, and production of DNA- and RNA-modifying enzymes that enable high-growth applications in genomics, molecular diagnostics, and personalized medicine.

Position Description:

Watchmaker is inviting applications for the full-time position of Office Cleaner based at our Brickfield Canvas Office in Cape Town, South Africa.

The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced working environment and contribute directly to our company culture and success. The position provides an opportunity to grow into a supervisory position over time.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily cleaning tasks including sweeping, mopping, dusting, and vacuuming of the main office and annex
• Sanitize high-touch surfaces such as door handles, light switches, and shared equipment
• Empty bins and maintain cleanliness of all office areas (laboratory areas excluded)
• Clean and maintain kitchen areas and appliances daily, including microwaves, refrigerators, sinks, countertops, and coffee machines
• Clean interior windows and glass partitions
• Monitor and report breakages or faulty equipment/appliances
• Manage and order cleaning supplies as needed
• Conduct regular stock takes and monitor stock levels, informing the Office Manager when cleaning materials and groceries require restocking
• Proactively identify and report potential safety risks
• Carry out additional tasks as delegated by management

Skills and Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years’ cleaning/housekeeping experience in an office environment
• Supervisory experience in a similar role will be advantageous
• Excellent attention to detail and pride in maintaining a clean, hygienic, and orderly workspace
• Knowledge of cleaning materials and equipment (e.g. vacuums, mops, floor polishers) and the ability to handle cleaning chemicals safely (previous training would be advantageous)
• Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and maintain high standards under pressure, with minimal supervision
• Good physical stamina, with the ability to lift, bend, and remain on your feet for extended periods
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Good communication and time management skills, with the ability to follow instructions and take initiative
• Reliable, disciplined, and proactive, with strong problem-solving ability
• Must be punctual and comfortable working early mornings

Education and Experience

• Minimum 3 years’ cleaning/housekeeping experience in an office environment
• Matric (Grade 12)
• Relevant cleaning, housekeeping, or health & safety certifications (advantageous)
• Good verbal and written communication skills in English
• Basic computer literacy

Application Requirements

To apply for the position, please submit the following in a PDF format on watchmakergenomics.com:

• Letter of motivation (upload where it says cover letter)
• Resume or Curriculum vitae, highlighting relevant qualifications and experience

Applications without a Letter of Motivation will not be considered. Applicants must be South African or be eligible to work in South Africa and already possess the necessary work permits or visas, or be able to obtain them before responding to this vacancy.

To ensure your application is considered, please submit it by Thursday, 4 June 2026. Please note that this position may close earlier if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

If selected to participate in the interview process, the names and contact information of three professional references who are able to assess your suitability for the position in terms of the specified requirements will be requested. We will also request a current payslip.

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NO RECRUITMENT AGENCIES PLEASE

We are only accepting direct applications for this position. We are not working with external recruiters or agencies at this time. Unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from third-party recruiters will not be considered and will be deemed the property of Watchmaker Genomics

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SOUTH AFRICA - WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

Watchmaker Genomics is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and creating a culturally diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability status, age, or veteran status or any other characteristics as protected by applicable law.

All applicants will be asked if they are currently eligible to work in South Africa. South African citizens are preferred.

This position may be subject to pre-employment checks, including driving history check, drug screening and a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. All pre-employment checks will comply with all applicable laws.