COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PRACTITIONER GRADE 1-3 (X1 POST)

This is a permanent, OSD-graded Community Development Practitioner post based in the Ugu District, requiring a candidate who is passionate about driving integrated community development within the housing and human settlements sector. The role operates within a government department, where the practitioner will act as a bridge between the department, communities, and various stakeholders to ensure that development initiatives are not only well planned but also genuinely respond to the needs of local residents. The position is advertised at Grade 1 to Grade 3 level, meaning the successful applicant will be appointed according to their qualifications and relevant experience, with a salary package aligned to the Occupation Specific Dispensation framework.

To be considered for this post, applicants must hold a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Community Development, Social Sciences, Housing Studies, or a closely related qualification. A valid driver’s licence is also compulsory, as the role requires extensive travel across the district and beyond. The ideal candidate will bring a strong working knowledge of housing legislation, policy formulation and implementation, as well as the broader housing delivery and development process. Familiarity with computer-based housing information systems is expected, along with an understanding of broad-based black economic empowerment (BEE), the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), procurement processes, legal procedures, and financial administration. Knowledge of human resource management prescripts, Public Service Regulations, contract administration, building structure standards, and basic infrastructural services is also essential. The role further demands a grasp of local government structures and legislation, the Public Service Act, the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), and Treasury Regulations.

The core duties of the Community Development Practitioner involve identifying, facilitating, and supporting the implementation of integrated community development initiatives in partnership with communities and relevant stakeholders. This includes liaising and coordinating with internal and external role players, such as provincial and national departments, non-governmental organisations, local community structures, and faith-based organisations, to ensure development actions are suitable and collaborative. The practitioner will also provide administrative and substantive support to communities, helping them engage meaningfully with development programmes and related activities. Staying abreast of new trends and developments in community development is a key part of the role, ensuring that service delivery remains responsive, innovative, and effective.

Applicants should demonstrate a wide range of skills and attributes, including project management, report writing, project facilitation, problem solving, conflict resolution, and strong interpersonal and communication abilities. The position requires someone who is computer literate, financially aware, and capable of basic housing design and specification, particularly in the context of People’s Housing Process (PHP) projects. Coordination, planning, time management, public speaking, protocol awareness (including customary protocol with traditional leadership), presentation skills, and active listening are all important. A genuine interest in housing matters, a proactive and innovative mindset, team orientation, goal orientation, end-user focus, and a strong client-service ethic aligned with Batho Pele principles are essential. The successful candidate must be willing to travel extensively and to work after hours or over weekends when necessary. This post offers a meaningful opportunity for a dedicated development professional to contribute to community upliftment within a government setting.