PROFESSIONAL NURSE SPECIALTY PNB1 (PSYCHIATRY) (X3 POSTS)

This vacancy is for three Professional Nurse Specialty posts in Psychiatry, graded as PNB1, based at Helen Joseph Tertiary Hospital within the Nursing Department. The role calls for an experienced professional nurse who holds a post-basic qualification in Psychiatry and is ready to work within a multidisciplinary team to deliver comprehensive mental health nursing care. The incumbent will be expected to function within the legal and ethical framework of nursing practice, ensuring that all care complies with the scope of practice and the standards of the facility. This is a senior clinical nursing position that requires not only hands-on patient care but also leadership, supervision, and the ability to manage resources effectively.

To be considered, candidates must have a Basic R425 qualification, that is a Diploma or Degree in Nursing or equivalent that permits registration with the South African Nursing Council as a Professional Nurse. Current registration with the SANC as a Professional Nurse is essential. In addition, applicants must hold a one-year post-basic nursing qualification in Psychiatry that is accredited by the SANC, and they must have at least four years of appropriate and recognisable nursing experience after registration in General Nursing. The post requires a demonstration of sound understanding of nursing legislation, ethics, and legal practices, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with patients, supervisors, and clinicians, including report writing.

Key duties include performing clinical nursing according to professional standards, promoting and advocating for patient care in line with Batho Pele principles, planning and organising work for support personnel, and providing direction for the implementation of nursing care plans. The nurse will also participate in developing unit protocols and standard operating procedures, maintain constructive working relationships with stakeholders, and demonstrate knowledge of medical equipment and its maintenance. Strong supervisory, decision-making, problem-solving, and conflict management skills are required, along with the ability to manage budgets and human resources. The successful candidate will contribute to the Ideal Hospital Realization Framework, identify risks and patient safety incidents, and ensure a safe therapeutic environment for patients, staff, and the public. Compliance with PMDS and CPD requirements is mandatory.

The Gauteng Department of Health is committed to Employment Equity, and applications are encouraged from people with disabilities and candidates across all population groups. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications and other documents, and those with foreign qualifications must provide a SAQA evaluation. The recruitment process includes personnel suitability checks, such as reference, identity, qualification, criminal record, and credit checks, and shortlisted candidates may need to undergo pre-entry assessments and medical surveillance. The department reserves the right not to fill the post. This is an OSD-graded position, and the closing date and submission details are as advertised.