PSYCHOMETRIST: PROVINCIAL ASSESSMENT CENTRE (X4 POSTS)

This position offers an opportunity for a registered Independent Psychometrist to contribute to the professional assessment and development of public servants within the Western Cape Government. Based at the Provincial Assessment Centre in the Department of the Premier, the successful candidate will join a team of specialists responsible for delivering competency-based assessment services across the provincial administration. The role is an OSD-graded post, reflecting its specialised technical nature, and forms part of a broader drive to strengthen organisational performance, leadership development and evidence-based people management within the public service.

The core function of the role is to manage and deliver psychometric and competency assessment services from start to finish. This includes planning and preparing for assessments, administering tests, scoring responses and processing results accurately. Beyond the technical administration, the psychometrist is expected to interpret assessment outcomes and present meaningful feedback to selection panels, individual candidates and development line managers. This requires strong analytical and interpretive skills, as well as the ability to communicate complex behavioural and psychological information clearly and sensitively. The role also involves providing advisory services to the organisation on psychometric matters, offering expert input on behavioural interventions, and developing practical solutions to assessment-related challenges. In addition, the incumbent will conduct research into psychometric tools and practices, compile trend analysis reports and help design new assessment solutions that align with the evolving needs of the provincial government.

To be considered, applicants must hold an applicable four-year post-school qualification in Psychology, Industrial Psychology or Educational Psychology at NQF level 8, and must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as an Independent Psychometrist. A valid Code 8 driving licence is also required. The role demands a thorough working knowledge of the legislative and ethical framework governing psychological assessment, including the Health Professions Act, the HPCSA Code of Ethics and Scope of Practice, the Employment Equity Act, the Labour Relations Act, POPIA, PAJA and PAIA. Familiarity with HPCSA policies, the classification of psychological tests, the SIOPSA code of practice and Continuous Professional Development requirements is essential. Candidates should also understand culture and leadership theory, organisational performance and development, public management theory, mentoring and coaching, research methods and statistics, and the statutory public-service framework.

The successful candidate will need a strong blend of technical and interpersonal skills. This includes analytical and critical reasoning, conceptual and interpretive ability, diagnostic and innovative problem-solving, planning and organising, project management and research skills. Proficiency in MS Office and assessment-centre related systems is expected, along with excellent verbal and written communication, report writing, presentation, interviewing and listening skills. Interpersonal abilities such as networking, conflict management, negotiation, persuasion, influencing, mentoring and coaching are also important, as the role requires engaging with a wide range of stakeholders.

The position carries a responsibility to maintain the highest ethical and professional standards in all psychometric activities, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and professional guidelines. The incumbent will also maintain assessment-centre information, records, databases and resources, and contribute to project planning, monitoring, reporting and quality assurance. Continuous improvement of psychometric services is a key part of the role.

Shortlisted candidates should note that the selection process includes interviews, the submission of vetting and supporting documentation, and two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise and an integrity assessment. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the department. By applying, candidates consent to reference checks with previous employers, including enquiries about disciplinary records and reasons for leaving.