Boarding Master
Job Summary
- Employer: Jairos Jiri Association
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: General
- Closing Date: 2026-09-29
Key Responsibilities
Requirements
- Relevant qualification and/or experience in boarding house, residential or student supervision.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to supervise and support residential students.
- Previous experience working in a boarding or institutional environment will be an advantage.
How to Apply
Apply by email: hr@jairosjiriassoc.org
About the Company
A philanthropic organisation set up in 1950 in Bulawayo, Rhodesia to support and train disadvantaged people. The founder, Jairos Jiri, using Christian principles, wanted to help individuals who previously had been marginalized and rejected. Initially the association supported arts endeavors and training and set up craft outlets selling tourist souvenirs, such as carvings, paintings, tiles and furniture. In the 1970s legal representation and affiliate support groups were founded in the UK. Jairos Jiri Associations now house the disadvantaged, support musical and dance groups, and are a powerful advocacy for those who would otherwise have no voice in Zimbabwe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to become a Boarding Master in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a minimum of five O-Level passes including English, with a diploma or certificate in Social Work, Psychology, or Education being advantageous. Experience working with vulnerable groups, children, or people with disabilities is highly valued. Jairos Jiri Association specifically serves people with disabilities, so relevant training in special needs care or rehabilitation would strengthen your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Boarding Master?
You will supervise residents' daily routines including meals, hygiene, bedtime, and safety within the boarding facility. The role involves maintaining discipline, coordinating with caregivers or support staff, and liaising with families or guardians. You also handle administrative tasks like attendance records, incident reports, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ in Zimbabwean NGOs compared to private sector?
NGO work culture emphasizes community service, patience, and adaptability to limited resources rather than profit-driven targets. Employers expect strong ethical conduct, cultural sensitivity, and willingness to work beyond contracted hours during emergencies. Building trust with residents and their families is prioritized over rigid hierarchical structures common in corporate settings.
What career progression opportunities exist for a Boarding Master in Zimbabwe?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Boarding Master, Facility Manager, or Programme Coordinator roles within the organization. Further studies in Social Work, Disability Studies, or NGO Management can open doors to policy development or regional management positions. Some professionals transition into government social services or establish their own care facilities.
What benefits are typically offered for full-time Boarding Master positions in Zimbabwean NGOs?
Benefits usually include annual leave, sick leave, and pension contributions through NSSA or private schemes, though medical aid coverage varies significantly by employer size and funding stability. Housing or transport allowances are sometimes provided for residential roles. Always confirm specific benefits during interview as NGO packages depend heavily on donor funding cycles.
How should I apply for a Boarding Master position and what do Zimbabwean employers look for?
Submit a detailed CV highlighting relevant caregiving experience, references from previous supervisors, and a cover letter demonstrating genuine commitment to disability rights or social welfare. Employers prioritize candidates with clean police clearance, proven reliability, and practical experience over academic credentials alone. Network through professional associations like the Zimbabwe Association of Doctors in Disability or attend NGO career fairs to access unadvertised opportunities.
