OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST GRADE 1-3

This position offers an opportunity for a qualified occupational therapist to join the Free State Psychiatric Complex Hospital, working within the Therapeutic and Medical Support Services Division. The role is an OSD-graded post, meaning it follows the Occupation Specific Dispensation for health professionals, with progression from Grade 1 through Grade 3 based on post-registration experience. The successful candidate will be part of a multidisciplinary team delivering compassionate, quality occupational therapy services to both adult and paediatric patients presenting with physical or psychiatric disorders. The hospital context requires a practitioner who can manage a clinical load while also contributing to broader therapeutic programmes, quality assurance projects, and inter-departmental collaboration.

Applicants must hold a degree in Occupational Therapy and have completed the required community service year in the field. Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as an independent practitioner is essential, along with a valid registration for the 2026/2027 period. A valid driver’s licence is also required. The grade at which the successful candidate is appointed depends on years of experience after registration: Grade 1 requires no post-registration experience for South African qualified employees who performed community service, while foreign qualified employees need one year of relevant experience. Grade 2 requires a minimum of ten years for RSA employees or eleven years for foreign qualified employees, and Grade 3 requires twenty years for RSA employees or twenty-one years for foreign qualified employees. Additional work exposure or further training and education will be an added advantage.

The core duties involve assessing and treating patients with physical or psychiatric conditions within the allocated clinical load, while also assisting with other clinical loads as needed. The therapist must adhere to provincial, hospital, and departmental policies, procedures, and guidelines, and follow the Mental Health Care Act in the implementation of services. Administrative responsibilities form part of the role, as does participation in quality assurance methods and projects. The position requires effective communication with all stakeholders, following correct channels, and maintaining good record management. The therapist will oversee allocated officials, supervise occupational therapy students, and participate in continuing professional development activities. Training and supervision of relevant staff and students are expected, along with participation in intra- and inter-departmental collaboration with stakeholders such as the University of the Free State, licensed NGOs, and rehabilitation services. The role also involves information and risk management, management of allocated resources including consumables and equipment, ongoing professional development, and contributing to policy development when required.

Candidates should possess computer literacy in MS Word and MS Excel, knowledge of public service legislation, policies, and procedures, and strong written and verbal communication skills. The ability to work as a member of a multidisciplinary team, analytical thinking, independent decision-making, problem-solving, and good interpersonal relations are essential, as is the capacity to work under pressure. Active participation in planned programmes to enhance involvement, capacity building, open communication, and participative management within the division is expected. Applicants should note that the application process requires the new Z83 form and a comprehensive CV, with certified copies of qualifications only requested from shortlisted candidates. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by an evaluation certificate from the South African Qualifications Authority. The post also offers benefits such as a 13th cheque, housing allowance, and optional medical aid, subject to prescribed requirements. Enquiries may be directed to the contact person listed in the advertisement.