CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST [GRADE 1 – 3] = 4 POSTS

This is a multi-post vacancy for Clinical Psychologists at Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3 level, with four positions available across four public hospitals: Dilokong, Mecklenburg, Ellisras, and Malamulele. The roles fall within the broader public health service structure and are graded according to an Occupational Specific Dispensation, meaning the appointment level and corresponding remuneration package will depend directly on the successful candidate’s years of relevant post-registration experience. Each post is based at one hospital, and candidates must clearly indicate their preferred centre when applying, as separate application links exist for each facility.

Candidates must hold an appropriate qualification that permits registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Psychologist, and must currently be registered with the HPCSA in that capacity. For appointment at Grade 1, no experience after registration is required. A Grade 2 post demands a minimum of eight years of relevant experience following registration as a Clinical Psychologist, while a Grade 3 post requires at least sixteen years of post-registration experience. Additional inherent requirements include a valid driver’s licence and solid computer literacy, covering MS Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and virtual meeting platforms. Applicants should also possess strong clinical knowledge in the field of Clinical Psychology, including psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and counselling. Analytical report writing, familiarity with current health and public service legislation and policies, and a sound understanding of professional ethics are essential. Skills in information technology, research, teaching, time management, and training will further support successful performance in this role.

The core duties involve delivering a comprehensive psychological service at hospital level, which includes assessment, therapy, and counselling for patients. Post holders will participate actively in hospital teams and committees, contributing to the overall mental health support structures within each facility. They will also be responsible for supporting hospital activities focused on mental health, as well as supervising the work of psychometrists attached to the hospital. Community outreach programmes form an important part of the position, requiring the psychologist to implement initiatives that extend mental health services beyond the hospital walls. Collaboration is central, as the incumbent must liaise with other hospital departments and with psychiatric services within the facility to ensure integrated patient care. Furthermore, the role involves assisting in the training of primary health care professionals, thereby strengthening mental health capacity across the broader health system.

These are permanent government posts, and the remuneration includes a rural allowance as per PSCBC provisions, reflecting the location of the hospitals in more remote areas. Applicants should be prepared to work within the public service regulatory environment and adhere to professional ethics at all times. Given that these positions span multiple grades, prospective candidates should carefully assess their own experience profile to determine which grade level they qualify for. The closing date is structured within the application timeline, and all applications must be submitted through the designated link for the selected hospital. This is a significant opportunity for qualified clinical psychologists to contribute to mental health service delivery in a public hospital setting, while also developing supervisory, training, and outreach skills.