SOCIAL WORKER GRADE 1 (X1 POST)

This vacancy is for a Social Worker Grade 1 post based at the Rotterdam One Stop in the Mopani District of Limpopo, within the provincial Department of Social Development. The role is an entry-level professional social work position, graded according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation for social workers, and is responsible for delivering a full range of social work services to vulnerable individuals, groups, families and communities in the area. The successful candidate will work as part of a district team, applying social work theory, legislation and intervention methods to promote the well-being of clients and address issues of care, protection and development.

To be considered, applicants must have a Grade 12 certificate and a recognised Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, as evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority. Current registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions is essential, as is a valid motor vehicle driver’s licence, although applicants with disabilities are exempt from the licence requirement. The role demands a broad set of competencies, including assessment and evaluation skills, knowledge of the Supervision Framework for Social Workers, social work legislation and intervention theories, information and knowledge management, protocol and professional ethics, and strong written and verbal communication. Computer literacy, organising and planning skills, project planning, psychosocial intervention, report writing, presentation and facilitation, diagnostic and analytical thinking, problem-solving, client orientation and customer focus are also required. In addition, the post calls for an understanding of human behaviour and social systems, as well as programme and project management, people empowerment, and communication and coordination skills.

The main duties include rendering social work services with regard to the care, protection and development of vulnerable individuals, groups, families and communities. The social worker will provide individual and group counselling, conduct advanced and specialised assessments to identify conditions and justify relevant interventions, and implement recommendations for appropriate intervention while providing continuous support. The role also requires producing and maintaining records of social work interventions, processes and outcomes, undertaking social work research and development, contributing to and assisting with the development of policies, and performing all administrative functions attached to the post.

The department applies its Employment Equity Plan in making appointment decisions, and all shortlisted candidates will be subjected to security clearance, qualification verification, a practical exercise and an integrity assessment, as well as a personnel suitability check. Candidates with foreign qualifications must have them evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority. Shortlisted applicants will need to submit certified copies of their identity document, Grade 12 certificate and qualifications before the interview. Correspondence is limited to shortlisted candidates, and applicants who do not receive feedback within three months of the closing date should regard their application as unsuccessful. The department reserves the right not to fill the post, and applicants may seek reasons for any administrative action in terms of the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act.