MEDICAL OFFICER: [SHIFTS] = [227] POSTS

This large-scale recruitment drive seeks qualified Medical Officers to fill 227 shift-based posts across numerous hospitals in the Limpopo Province Department of Health. The positions are advertised at three professional grades, with posts distributed among a wide range of district and regional hospitals, from major centres like Pietersburg, Mankweng, Tshilidzini and Lebowakgomo to smaller facilities such as Elim, Ellisras, Warmbaths and Voortrekker. Successful candidates will be expected to provide comprehensive medical care within a hospital setting, working flexible shifts including night duty, weekends and public holidays, and to perform commuted overtime as operational needs require. The remuneration is an all-inclusive package structured according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation for medical officers, with an additional rural allowance payable either under the Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council or at a higher rate for facilities located in ISRDS nodes.

To be considered, applicants must hold a qualification that allows registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as an Independent Medical Practitioner and must currently be registered with the HPCSA in that capacity. For appointment at Grade 1, candidates need less than five years of appropriate experience after registration. Grade 2 requires a minimum of five years, while Grade 3 requires at least ten years of post-registration experience. Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents and must possess a valid driver’s licence, unless they have a disability. The role demands a willingness to work shifts and flexi hours, as well as the ability to work overtime when necessary. Computer literacy in MS Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and virtual meeting platforms is an inherent requirement, and a skill declaration form must be submitted with the application.

The core responsibilities of the Medical Officer are broad and clinically demanding. The role involves providing emergency and routine clinical care in designated areas, performing ward rounds, and delivering medical services at outreach programmes and special events across the province. Medical Officers must respond to emergency calls within stipulated times, including during disasters or disaster management operations. They are expected to maintain best clinical practice in line with quality standards, participating in Continuing Professional Development as required by the HPCSA, and to generate and maintain accurate medical records. The position also requires active participation in the department’s Quality Improvement Programme, conducting clinical audits, and ensuring that clinical protocols are followed. Senior post holders may be tasked with supervising, instructing and training Medical Officers and Registrars, and all incumbents must be prepared to perform any other duties allocated by a supervisor without boundary restrictions. Ideal candidates should have sound clinical knowledge across general medicine, surgery and anaesthetics for all age groups, a strong understanding of South African medical law and ethics, good leadership and communication skills, budgeting awareness, and the ability to work independently after hours.

The Department of Health is an equal-opportunity employer, and these posts are subject to the inherent requirements of the job, including shift work and overtime. The advertised package and rural allowance reflect the grade and location, and applicants should note that only those who meet the HPCSA registration and experience criteria will be considered. Given the number of posts across multiple centres, this is a significant opportunity for both newly qualified practitioners and experienced medical officers seeking to contribute to public healthcare in Limpopo.