COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WORKER: REGION B (LAINGSBURG)

The Community Development Worker position for Region B, based in Laingsburg, is a field-oriented role within the Department of Local Government in the Western Cape Government. This post is central to bridging the gap between communities and the public services available to them, ensuring that residents in the region understand how to access government structures and that their needs are effectively communicated to the appropriate authorities. Operating at a Level 06 grade, the role requires a proactive individual who can work independently, engage with diverse community members, and maintain strong working relationships with existing local development workers and government stakeholders. The broader context of the work is to strengthen public participation in policy making and service delivery, particularly within the unique social and demographic composition of Western Cape communities.

To be considered, applicants must hold a Grade 12 certificate or an equivalent qualification at NQF level 4. The role demands a solid working knowledge of applicable policies, legislation, guidelines, standards, procedures, and best practices within the public service. An understanding of the composition of Western Cape communities and how they function is essential, as is the ability to facilitate public participation in policy making and service delivery. Candidates should also demonstrate strong project organisation skills, interpersonal abilities, report writing and reporting skills, proven computer literacy in MS Office, self-management, and the capacity to adhere to timelines. Effective written and verbal communication skills are critical for engaging with community members and producing clear documentation for government structures.

The core duties involve informing and assisting communities across the Western Cape with access to services provided by government structures. This includes determining the needs of communities and communicating those needs to the relevant authorities, promoting networks, and enhancing the activities of existing local community workers to improve service delivery. The successful candidate will be required to compile reports and documents on progress, issues attended to, actions taken, and outcomes as required. Staying up to date regarding all services rendered by government, as well as the processes and mechanisms to access those services, is a continuous responsibility of the post.

There are several important conditions attached to this vacancy. Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend interviews on a date and time determined by the department and must submit duly completed and signed vetting and supporting documentation within the timeframe communicated prior to the interview. Failure to do so without reasonable justification may result in disqualification from the process. All shortlisted candidates will also undertake two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise to determine suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements, and an integrity assessment focusing on ethical conduct. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the employing department. By applying, candidates consent to the Western Cape Government contacting previous employers or managers for employment references, which will include enquiries relating to disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. Technical support for online applications is available during business hours, and all other queries should be directed to the enquiries person named in the advert. Late applications will not be considered, so prospective applicants are advised to submit well before the closing date.