OPERATIONAL MANAGER PNB3: ADVANCED MIDWIFERY AND NEONATAL NURSING SCIENCE

This position offers an experienced and dedicated professional nurse the opportunity to step into a senior operational leadership role within the Lejweleputswa District, focusing specifically on advanced midwifery and neonatal nursing science. As an Operational Manager at PNB3 level, the successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating optimal, holistic and specialised nursing care within a defined unit, ensuring that all care is delivered in line with professional standards and the legal framework governing nursing practice in South Africa. The role sits within the broader public service environment and requires a leader who can balance clinical excellence with effective resource management, staff supervision and support to the wider nursing services. The post is graded according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) and forms part of the department’s commitment to strengthening maternal and neonatal healthcare services in the district.

Applicants must hold a Senior Certificate and either a Basic R425 qualification in nursing, such as a diploma or degree that allows registration with the South African Nursing Council as a Registered Nurse in General Nursing, or a four-year Bachelor Degree in Nursing (R174) enabling registration as a Professional Nurse. In addition, a post-basic nursing qualification of at least one year, accredited by the SANC in Advanced Midwifery and Neonatal Nursing Science, is essential. Current registration with the SANC as a Professional Nurse for the 2026/2027 period is required, along with a minimum of nine years of appropriate nursing experience after registration in General Nursing. At least five of those years must be specifically in the advanced midwifery and neonatal nursing science specialty, gained after completing the one-year post-basic qualification. The role demands sound computer literacy, thorough knowledge of public service legislation, policies and procedures, and a deep understanding of nursing statutes and legal frameworks including the Nursing Act, Health Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Patient Rights Charter and Batho Pele principles. Knowledge of human resource policies such as the Skills Development Act, Public Service Regulations, Labour Relations Act, disciplinary code and grievance procedures is also required.

The core duties involve managing the effective utilisation and supervision of human and material resources, coordinating the provision of effective training and research, and providing strong support to nursing services. The Operational Manager must maintain professional growth and ethical standards, demonstrate an in-depth understanding of nursing legislation and its impact on service delivery, and ensure that clinical nursing practices by the team comply with the scope of practice and standards determined by the health facility. The role also requires promoting quality nursing care, demonstrating basic understanding of HR and financial policies, and communicating effectively with patients, supervisors, other health professionals and junior colleagues, including writing complex reports when needed. Working as part of a multi-disciplinary team, managing own time and that of junior staff, and building professional networks to enhance service delivery are all central to the position. A genuine concern for patients, advocating for proper treatment and care, and ensuring the unit adheres to Batho Pele principles are equally important.

The department intends to promote representativity through this post, with preference given to candidates from designated groups, particularly people with disabilities, women and youth. Shortlisted candidates will be subjected to personnel suitability checks, including criminal record, citizenship, financial records and qualification verification, and may be required to consent to access to their social media accounts. Applicants are not required to submit copies of qualifications on application, but a comprehensive CV with three referees is essential. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA, and non-RSA residents must provide proof when shortlisted. New appointments in the public service are required to participate in the Government Employee Medical Scheme. Candidates should note that if no notification is received within four months of the closing date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful.