COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PRACTITIONER: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES (WITZENBERG)

This position is for a Community Development Practitioner within the Community Development Services unit of the Department of Social Development, based in Witzenberg under the Western Cape Government. The role is an occupation-specific dispensation (OSD) graded post, meaning appointment can be made at one of three levels depending on the candidate’s experience. The core purpose of the job is to work directly with communities to identify needs, facilitate development interventions, and support self-empowerment among residents. The practitioner acts as a bridge between community structures, government departments, non-governmental organisations, and faith-based groups, ensuring that development efforts are collaborative, sustainable, and aligned with broader social development goals.

To be considered, applicants must hold an appropriate three-year tertiary qualification, such as a National Diploma or a Bachelor’s degree or higher. For entry at Grade 1, no prior work experience is required, making this an excellent opportunity for recent graduates. Grade 2 requires a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in community development after obtaining the qualification, while Grade 3 requires at least twenty years of such experience. Beyond formal qualifications, the department is looking for candidates with a solid understanding of community development principles, human behaviour, social systems, and the legislation that supports interventions. The ability to coordinate community structures, manage projects, and influence individuals and groups to participate in their own development is essential. Strong presentation, facilitation, research, and communication skills are also required, along with proven computer literacy and a working knowledge of basic financial management.

The main duties involve identifying and facilitating integrated community development interventions in partnership with communities and stakeholders. The practitioner will liaise with internal and external role players, including provincial departments, NGOs, local community structures, and faith-based organisations, to establish partnerships and ensure the sustainability of development actions. Administrative support for community development activities is also part of the role, as is staying current with new developments in the field to enhance service delivery. The work is dynamic and requires both fieldwork and office-based coordination.

Shortlisted candidates should note that the selection process includes interviews, pre-entry assessments, and an integrity check. The department will require the submission of vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe before the interview. Reference checks will be conducted with previous employers, including enquiries about disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the department, and applicants consent to these checks by applying. Technical support for online applications is available during business hours, and all applications must be submitted before the closing date. This is a meaningful opportunity for those committed to community empowerment and social change within the Western Cape.