MEDICAL OFFICER: [SHIFTS] = [227] POSTS

This large-scale recruitment drive seeks qualified medical practitioners to fill 227 Medical Officer posts on a shift system within public hospitals across Limpopo Province. These positions are distributed among a wide range of hospitals, from regional centres such as Pietersburg, Mankweng and Tshilidzini to smaller district facilities, reflecting the department’s need to strengthen clinical services at every level of the health system. The roles are graded according to post-registration experience, allowing both recently qualified doctors and seasoned professionals to apply, with each grade corresponding to a distinct set of responsibilities and an appropriate all-inclusive remuneration package. An additional rural allowance may apply, linked to a percentage of basic salary, for posts located in ISRDS nodes or under the relevant PSCBC agreement. This is an OSD-graded position, meaning career progression is structured and recognisable within the public service.

Applicants must hold a qualification that permits registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as an Independent Medical Practitioner and must currently be registered with the HPCSA in that category. For entry at Grade 1, candidates need less than five years of appropriate experience after registration. Grade 2 requires a minimum of five years, while Grade 3 requires a minimum of ten years of recognised experience. Importantly, applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents. The nature of the post demands a willingness to work shifts, flexi hours, night duty, weekends and public holidays, as well as the ability to perform commuted overtime when operational needs require it. Computer literacy in MS Office tools and virtual meeting platforms is essential, and a valid driver’s licence is required unless the applicant has a disability. A skill declaration form must be submitted with the application.

The core duties are broad and clinically demanding. Medical officers will provide comprehensive clinical care, including emergency care, in designated areas such as wards, outpatient departments and casualty units. They are expected to perform ward rounds, participate in outreach programmes, and deliver medical services at special events or during provincial operations. In emergencies, including disasters, they must respond within stipulated times. Maintaining best practice is central, with an emphasis on quality standards, continuous professional development through the HPCSA’s CPD system, and generating accurate medical records that meet minimum standards. Successful candidates will also take part in the department’s quality improvement programme, conduct clinical audits, and ensure that protocols are followed across their clinical areas. They may be required to supervise, instruct and train medical officers or registrars in one or more disciplines, and must be prepared to perform any other duties allocated by a supervisor anywhere in the province, without boundary restrictions. This is therefore not only a clinical role but one that contributes to the broader functioning and improvement of the provincial health system, and it offers meaningful opportunities for professional growth and service delivery in a range of hospital settings.