SOCIAL WORKER: SOCIAL WORK SERVICES (DELFT)

This position is for a qualified social worker based in Delft, within the Department of Social Development in the Western Cape Government. The role sits within the social work services component and is focused on delivering professional social work interventions to vulnerable individuals, groups, families, and communities. The work is grounded in the department’s mandate to promote social well-being, protect those who are at risk, and address the structural causes of poverty, inequality, oppression, discrimination, and exclusion. As a social worker in this unit, you would be expected to respond to social instability, provide therapeutic and developmental support, and work across the full spectrum of social work methods, including case work, group work, and community work.

To be considered, applicants must hold a relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, specifically a Bachelor of Social Work, that allows for professional registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions. Current registration as a social worker with that council is also mandatory. The post is graded according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation, and entry level depends on experience. Grade 1 requires no experience, while Grade 2 requires a minimum of ten years of appropriate experience after registration, Grade 3 requires twenty years, and Grade 4 requires thirty years of appropriate post-registration experience. The role demands a solid understanding of the Supervision Framework for Social Workers, human behaviour and social systems, social work theory and interventions, information and knowledge management, professional ethics, relevant legislation and policies, and social dynamics. Strong skills are needed in written and verbal communication, report writing, planning, organising, problem solving, computer literacy, presentation and facilitation, and client orientation. The ability to mentor and coach junior social workers is also essential, as is the capacity to empower individuals, families, groups, organisations, and communities to enhance their social functioning and use resources effectively.

The main duties include rendering a comprehensive social work service through case work, group work, and community work, with a focus on care, support, protection, and development of vulnerable people. You will also be expected to attend to matters that may cause or stem from social instability, supervise and support social auxiliary workers, engage in continuous professional development, and stay current with developments in the social welfare field. Administrative functions are an integral part of the job, as is the ability to promote, restore, and enhance the functioning of clients by helping them accomplish tasks, prevent distress, and access resources.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend interviews and must submit completed vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe. All shortlisted candidates will also undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise to determine technical and generic suitability, and an integrity assessment focused on ethical conduct. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the department, and by applying, candidates consent to the Western Cape Government contacting previous employers for references, including disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. This is a full-time professional post within a government department, and the role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a community-facing social work environment.