ASSISTANT MANAGER NURSING [PN-B4]: PHC: COMMUNICABLE DISEASES SURVEILLANCE

This position offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional nurse to lead communicable disease surveillance at the national level. Based at the National Head Office within the Communicable Diseases directorate, the Assistant Manager Nursing for Primary Health Care and Communicable Diseases Surveillance plays a strategic role in shaping how South Africa detects, monitors, and responds to infectious disease threats. The role sits at the intersection of clinical nursing practice, public health policy, and programme management, requiring a candidate who can translate epidemiological data into actionable interventions and ensure that surveillance systems align with national legislation and guidelines.

Candidates must hold a basic R425 qualification in nursing, such as a diploma or degree, along with a post-basic qualification of at least one year in curative skills in Primary Health Care, both accredited by the South African Nursing Council. Registration with the SANC as a Professional Nurse is essential, as is a minimum of ten years of recognisable nursing experience after registration. Of those ten years, at least six must have been gained after obtaining the post-basic Primary Health Care qualification, and at least three must have been at a management level. Computer literacy and a valid driver’s licence are also required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a deep understanding of nursing legislation and the legal and ethical frameworks that govern practice, together with the ability to ensure that clinical nursing care by the team adheres to professional standards and facility requirements. Strong communication, report-writing, and interpersonal skills are vital, as the role involves liaising with patients, supervisors, health professionals, and junior colleagues, as well as working effectively within a multi-disciplinary team and with people from diverse backgrounds. The ability to manage time and resources, display concern for patients, and uphold the principles of Batho Pele is also central to the position.

In terms of core duties, the Assistant Manager will be responsible for developing, reviewing, and implementing surveillance systems and policies for communicable diseases in line with applicable legislation and guidelines. This includes conducting research and data analysis to inform decision-making, establishing clear metrics to evaluate the success of prevention and treatment programmes, and designing innovative interventions aimed at reducing the incidence of communicable diseases. The role also encompasses the management of physical and information resources, ensuring that all activities comply with departmental policies and procedures. This is an OSD-graded position, and appointment will be made under the Public Service Act. This role is ideal for a senior nursing professional with a strong background in Primary Health Care and public health surveillance, who is ready to contribute to national-level disease control efforts.