CLINICAL PROGRAMME COORDINATOR PNA5: (HAST)

This position offers an experienced professional nurse the opportunity to lead and coordinate the HIV, AIDS, STI, and TB (HAST) programme at Bongani Regional Hospital, operating within the broader public health framework of the Free State Department of Health. As a Clinical Programme Coordinator at the PNA5 level, the incumbent will serve as the operational driving force behind the hospital's comprehensive response to these interrelated epidemics, ensuring that strategic plans are translated into tangible, measurable outcomes at facility level. The role sits at the intersection of clinical practice, programme management, and public health leadership, requiring someone who can navigate both the clinical complexities of managing infectious diseases and the administrative demands of running a multidisciplinary programme.

Candidates must hold a Senior Certificate alongside a Basic R425 qualification, such as a diploma or degree in nursing, or an equivalent qualification that permits registration with the South African Nursing Council as a Registered Nurse in General Nursing. Alternatively, a four-year Bachelor Degree in Nursing under R174 that enables SANC registration as a Professional Nurse is acceptable. A minimum of seven years of appropriate and recognisable nursing experience after registration with SANC is required, along with specific training in HIV/AIDS management, NIMART certification, and substantial experience across HIV, AIDS, STI, and TB programmes. Current SANC registration for the 2026/2027 period is mandatory. The ideal candidate will demonstrate computer literacy and statistical aptitude, a working knowledge of relevant health legislation and policies, and the ability to collect, analyse, and interpret data to inform programme decisions. Strong leadership, planning, organising, coordination, and communication skills are essential, as is the capacity to take charge, make independent decisions, and provide research-based advice to hospital management. The ability to work collaboratively as a team member and foster intersectoral partnerships is equally important.

The core duties of this role are wide-ranging and demanding. The coordinator will provide operational direction for the HAST programme across the hospital, implementing strategies aimed at behavioural change to reduce infection rates and improve patient retention in care. This involves executing the HAST programme in line with national and provincial strategic plans, offering technical and clinical support to healthcare facilities and stakeholders, and monitoring all programme components for compliance and effectiveness. The coordinator will manage the HAST multidisciplinary team, coordinate stakeholder engagement, and analyse programme data to strengthen implementation. Regular ward rounds, hospital support visits, and audits are required to ensure adherence to programme standards, and the coordinator will lead health and wellness events designed to influence behavioural change within the community.

This is an OSD-graded nursing post, and the Department intends to promote representativity through this vacancy, with preference given to applicants from designated groups, particularly people with disabilities, women, and youth. Applicants should note that only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified documents, and all shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks covering criminal records, citizenship, financial records, and qualification verification, with possible consent required for access to social media accounts. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority, and new public service appointments are required to participate in the Government Employee Medical Scheme to qualify for a government medical subsidy. Candidates who terminated their services through voluntary severance packages may not apply, and applicants who do not receive notification within four months of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.