OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST: GRADE 1 –2 (X3 POSTS)

The Limpopo Department of Health is advertising three occupational therapist vacancies at district hospitals, with posts based at WF Knobel Hospital, Botlokwa Hospital and Tshilidzini Hospital. These positions are graded at entry and experienced levels, meaning the department is open to both recently qualified therapists and seasoned professionals. Successful candidates will work within the public health sector, delivering occupational therapy services that meet national norms and standards in both hospital and community settings. The role is firmly rooted in a multidisciplinary healthcare environment, requiring close collaboration with doctors, nurses and other allied health professionals to provide patient-centred care across the district.

Applicants must hold a National Senior Certificate or equivalent, along with an appropriate qualification in occupational therapy that permits registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Current registration with the HPCSA is a non-negotiable requirement. The level of appointment depends on experience: Grade 1 posts are available to therapists with no post-registration experience, while Grade 2 posts require a minimum of ten years of appropriate and recognizable experience after registration. The ideal candidate will have sound knowledge of general occupational therapy principles, clinical theory, practice and ethics, as well as familiarity with public service legislation, the Public Finance Management Act, and departmental policies and procedures. Technical skills include computer literacy in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and proficiency in virtual meeting platforms. A valid driver’s licence is required, although applicants with disabilities may be exempt. Strong verbal and written communication skills, the ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team, effective interpersonal abilities, strategic planning and organizational skills, leadership qualities and supervisory competence are all essential, as is the capacity to work under pressure.

The core duties of the post involve rendering occupational therapy services that comply with the scope of practice and health protocols. Therapists will be expected to provide patient-centred services in hospitals, communities and through outreach programmes to schools, early childhood development centres, special schools and old age homes. They will compile daily and monthly statistics and reports using departmental tools, participate in continuous professional development, and carry out tasks delegated by supervisors or managers. The role also includes supervising and training occupational therapy students, participating in quality assurance audits, exercising care with consumables and equipment, managing allocated resources, and actively promoting and marketing occupational therapy services within the health district.

Several special conditions apply to these posts. The positions carry a rural allowance, reflecting the location of the hospitals. Applicants should note that the standard public service application process applies, including the completion of the new Z83 application form, which must be signed and fully completed in all required sections, and must be accompanied by a comprehensive curriculum vitae. Online applications require the CV to be uploaded as a PDF; zipped, image and JPEG files will not be accepted. Candidates with foreign qualifications must have them evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority and provide proof of evaluation. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interviews and will be required to produce certified copies of their qualifications and relevant documents. These posts offer a meaningful opportunity to contribute to rural healthcare in Limpopo, with a clear career path for both new graduates and experienced occupational therapists.