COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PRACTITIONER GRADE 1-3 (X16 POSTS) (3-year contract)

This is a three-year contract position within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Human Settlements, offering sixteen openings for Community Development Practitioners across multiple district offices, including eThekwini North and West, iLembe, Harry Gwala, uThukela, uMgungundlovu, uMzinyathi, Zululand, Amajuba, uMkhanyakude, and King Cetshwayo. The role is graded under the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) and is central to the department’s mandate of facilitating integrated community development and housing delivery. Practitioners will work directly with communities, local authorities, NGOs, faith-based organisations, and other government spheres to ensure that development initiatives are aligned with community needs and legislative frameworks.

To be considered, applicants must hold a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Community Development, Social Sciences, Housing Studies, or a related qualification. A valid driver’s licence is essential, as extensive travel across districts is required, including work after hours and on weekends when necessary. The ideal candidate will possess a broad knowledge base covering housing legislation, policy development and implementation, housing delivery processes, computer-based housing information systems, and an understanding of BEE, EPWP, procurement, legal processes, and financial administration. Familiarity with HRM prescripts, Public Service Regulations, contract administration, building structure standards, and basic infrastructural services is also expected. Knowledge of local government structures, the Public Service Act, PFMA, MFMA, and Treasury Regulations is critical. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, problem-solving, project management, report writing, facilitation, conflict resolution, and computer literacy are required. The department seeks individuals who are innovative, proactive, team-oriented, goal-driven, and client-focused, with a genuine interest in housing matters and a willingness to listen and adapt.

The core duties involve identifying and facilitating integrated community development in partnership with communities and stakeholders. Practitioners must liaise and coordinate with all relevant role players, both internal and external, to foster collaboration and ensure development actions are suitable for the community. They will provide administrative support for community development activities and stay abreast of new developments in the field to enhance service delivery. This includes supporting communities through the housing process, from planning to implementation, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.

Shortlisted candidates will undergo a rigorous selection process. This includes producing original documents such as ID, senior certificate, qualifications, service certificates, and driver’s licence for verification. Background checks, fingerprint screening, security clearance, and vetting will be conducted. Candidates must have no criminal convictions or pending cases. All shortlisted applicants will participate in a personal interview and complete two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and an integrity assessment. For certain posts, vetting under the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act and the Children’s Act will apply, with checks against the National Register for Sex Offenders and the Child Protection Register. The department emphasises Batho Pele principles and a strong client focus. These positions are ideal for dedicated professionals committed to community upliftment and housing delivery in KwaZulu-Natal.