Professional Nurse Grade 1 to 2 (Specialty: Occupational Health and Safety) (2 posts) (Permanent position)

This permanent position is for two Professional Nurses specialising in Occupational Health and Safety, placed within the Metro District Health Services under the Chief Directorate of Metro Health Services in the Western Cape. One post is based in the Western/Southern Sub-structure and the other in the Klipfontein/Mitchell's Plain Sub-structure. The role is graded at Professional Nurse Level 1 or Level 2, depending on the successful candidate’s experience and qualifications, and forms part of a multi-disciplinary team responsible for protecting and promoting the health of staff across the district. The work involves regular travel to facilities throughout the geographical area, so a valid Code B/EB driver’s licence is an inherent requirement of the job.

Applicants must hold a basic R425 diploma or degree in nursing, or an equivalent qualification that allows registration with the South African Nursing Council as a Professional Nurse. In addition, they need a post-basic nursing qualification of at least one year in Occupational Health Nursing Science, accredited by the SANC, or alternatively a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing coupled with a SANC-accredited postgraduate diploma in Occupational Health Nursing. Registration with the SANC as a Professional Nurse and proof of annual registration are essential. For appointment at Grade 1, a minimum of four years of appropriate nursing experience after registration is required. Grade 2 requires a minimum of fourteen years of nursing experience after registration, with at least ten of those years in the specific specialty of occupational health nursing following the completion of the relevant post-basic qualification. A concession exists for candidates who do not yet have the stipulated registration: they may apply provided they submit proof of their application for registration and payment of the prescribed fees to the relevant council on or before the day of the interview, but this only applies to first-time applicants for registration in the post-basic qualification or postgraduate diploma concerned.

The core duties include establishing and maintaining an effective Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management programme across the Metro District, supporting the rollout of staff immunisation and medical surveillance programmes, and coordinating the delivery of clinical occupational health services. The post holder must also administer the occupational health service efficiently, participate in health risk assessments within the district, help assess staff competencies and skills, and identify training and education needs. A commitment to continuous professional development is essential to keep practice current and aligned with legal and ethical standards.

Successful candidates should have practical knowledge of occupational health and risk management, a sound grasp of the District Health System, and familiarity with the laws, regulations, rules and policies governing occupational health and safety. Previous experience in occupational health services is expected, along with computer literacy in Microsoft Office. The remuneration package includes the standard government service benefits, such as a thirteenth cheque, pension fund contributions, and subsidies for housing and medical aid. Interested applicants should note that this is a permanent appointment and that all relevant supporting documentation must be submitted as part of the application process.