COMMUNICATION OFFICER REF NO: 301026/37 Branch: Water And Sanitation Services Management: WC Cd: Provincial Operations: Western Cape Div: Corporate Services Support

This position is for a Communication Officer within the Department of Water and Sanitation, based in Bellville and situated in the Western Cape Provincial Operations under the Corporate Services Support division. The role supports the branch responsible for Water and Sanitation Services Management, placing the officer at the heart of the department’s internal and external communication efforts. As part of the communication section, the incumbent will help align messaging with departmental strategic objectives, support campaigns, and ensure that stakeholders, employees and the public receive accurate and timely information about the department’s work.

To be considered, applicants need a relevant NQF level 6 qualification in Communication recognised by SAQA, plus at least one year of experience in a communication environment. A valid unexpired driver’s licence is required. The ideal candidate will have broad disciplinary knowledge spanning communication and media studies, political science and policies, public administration, and design principles, techniques and tools. Familiarity with the writing process, reviewing and proofreading is essential, as is knowledge of water sector legislation, financial management and the Public Finance Management Act. The role also demands an understanding of operations planning and execution, programme and project management, relationship management, problem-solving and analysis, people and diversity management, conflict management, and creative and cultural awareness. Strong verbal and written communication, client orientation, professional development, and ethical conduct round out the required profile.

The duties are wide-ranging. The officer will coordinate departmental events, develop and implement communication plans in support of campaigns, and analyse departmental strategic objectives to ensure communication efforts are aligned. They will recommend amendments to policies to improve communication effectiveness and engage with key role players to foster collaboration. Responsibilities include creating actionable plans for media coverage, ensuring timely dissemination of written and visual materials, drafting and sending invitations, and securing venues for events. The officer will also help compile and maintain guest lists, keep departmental calendars current, and publish and distribute event-related information. In addition, they will write and compile articles for the internal newsletter, provide logistical support for communication components, and ensure publicity projects meet their objectives. Building and maintaining strong stakeholder relations is a central theme, as is participating in the Water Sector strategic plan and assisting with the communication section’s budget and strategic planning.

The Department of Water and Sanitation is an equal opportunity employer, with employment equity imperatives taken into account. Women and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply, and preference will be given to EE targets. Shortlisted candidates will undergo suitability checks, including SAQA verification, reference, criminal and credit checks. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate when shortlisted. Candidates should note that applications are submitted online, and the Z83 form must be fully completed, as failure to disclose required information will disqualify the applicant. No late or faxed applications are accepted. Correspondence is limited to shortlisted candidates, and if no feedback is received within three months, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful. The department reserves the right not to fill the post.