SOCIAL WORK SUPERVISOR (X2 POSTS AVAILABLE IN MOSSEL BAY AND OUDTSHOORN)

This position offers an opportunity for an experienced social work professional to step into a supervisory role within the Western Cape Government’s Department of Social Development. Two posts are available, one based in Mossel Bay and the other in Oudtshoorn, and both are graded according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) for social work practitioners. The successful candidates will be responsible for ensuring that social work services are delivered effectively to vulnerable individuals, groups, families and communities, with a strong focus on care, support, protection and development. The role also requires attention to broader matters that may cause or stem from social instability, meaning the supervisor must be able to respond to emerging challenges in the community through relevant programmes and interventions.

Applicants must hold a formal tertiary qualification in Social Work, such as a Bachelor of Social Work, that allows for professional registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP). In addition, a minimum of seven years of appropriate experience in social work after registration as a social worker with the SACSSP is required. A valid driving licence, Code B or higher, is also essential. The ideal candidate will possess a wide range of professional competencies, including knowledge of diagnostic and assessment tools, personnel management, the Supervision Framework for Social Workers, legislation relating to children, social work theory and interventions, information and knowledge management, and professional ethics. Strong skills in organising, planning, project planning, psychosocial intervention, communication, people management, conflict management, interpersonal engagement, report writing, computer literacy, presentation, facilitation, problem solving and analytical thinking are equally important.

The core duties of the role involve supervising and advising social workers, social auxiliary workers and volunteers to ensure that an effective social work service is delivered. The supervisor will also be responsible for overseeing all administrative functions within the unit and undertaking higher-level administrative tasks. Keeping up to date with new developments in the social work field is a key part of the role, as is ensuring that all employees engaged in these functions are properly managed and supported. The position requires a leader who can guide a team while also maintaining a hands-on understanding of the challenges faced by frontline social workers.

Shortlisted candidates should note that they will be required to attend interviews on a date determined by the department and must submit duly completed and signed vetting and supporting documentation within the timeframe communicated prior to the interview. Failure to do so without reasonable justification may result in exclusion from the process. All shortlisted candidates will also undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise to determine suitability based on the technical and generic requirements of the post, and an integrity assessment relating to ethical conduct. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the employing department. By applying, candidates consent to the Western Cape Government contacting previous employers or managers for employment references, including enquiries about disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. This is a demanding but rewarding supervisory role for a seasoned social worker seeking to contribute to the development and protection of vulnerable groups in the Western Cape.