SOCIAL WORKER: SOCIAL WORK SERVICES REF NO: DSD 94/2026 (POSTS AVAILABLE AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS)

This vacancy is for a qualified Social Worker to join the Department of Social Development within the Western Cape Government, with posts available at various locations across the province. The role is graded according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD), meaning there are multiple salary levels depending on the candidate’s years of relevant experience after registration. The core purpose of the position is to render professional social work services aimed at the care, support, protection and development of vulnerable individuals, groups, families and communities. This is a frontline role within the provincial social development unit, requiring both direct intervention and the ability to address broader social instability.

To be considered, applicants must hold a relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, specifically a Bachelor of Social Work, which allows for professional registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP). Current registration with the SACSSP as a Social Worker is essential. The advertised post is structured into four grades. Grade 1 requires no experience after registration, while Grade 2 requires a minimum of ten years of appropriate experience in social work. Grade 3 requires twenty years, and Grade 4 requires thirty years of post-registration experience. Beyond these formal requirements, the department seeks candidates with a strong working knowledge of the Supervision Framework for Social Workers, human behaviour and social systems, social work theory and interventions, information and knowledge management, professional ethics, relevant legislation and policies, and social dynamics. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate skills in challenging structural sources of poverty, inequality, oppression, discrimination and exclusion, as well as strong written and verbal communication, report-writing, self-management, motivation, planning and organising, problem-solving and analytical thinking, computer literacy, presentation and facilitation, and client orientation. The ability to assist, develop, advocate for and empower individuals, families, groups, organisations and communities is central to the role, as is the capacity to protect people who are vulnerable, at risk or unable to protect themselves. More experienced applicants should be able to mentor and coach Social Workers at Grade 1 level.

The main duties include rendering a comprehensive social work service through case work, group work and community work, focusing on vulnerable populations. The post holder will also attend to any matters that could result in, or stem from, social instability in any form. Supervision and support of Social Auxiliary Workers is a key responsibility, along with continuous professional development to stay current with new developments in the social work and social welfare fields. Administrative functions associated with the job must also be performed diligently.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend interviews at a time determined by the department and must submit completed vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe. All shortlisted candidates will undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise to determine suitability based on technical and generic requirements, and an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the employing department. By applying, candidates consent to the Western Cape Government contacting previous employers or managers for employment references, including enquiries about disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. Late applications will not be considered, and technical support is available for those experiencing difficulties with the online application system.