SOCIALWORKERGR1X9

This is a professional entry-level Social Worker post, graded at Level 1 in terms of the Occupation Specific Dispensation, with nine vacancies to be filled across the North West provincial Department of Social Development. The positions sit within the Chief Directorate for Districts and Institutional Support Management, specifically in the Directorate for Districts and Service Points. Successful candidates may be placed at any of the following centres: J.B. Marks and Matlosana in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, Lekweteemane in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, Moses Kotane Service Point and Madibeng in the Bojanala District, and Tswaing and Ditsobotla in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District. The multi-location nature of the advertisement means applicants should be willing to work at the specific centre indicated in their application, and the department will allocate successful candidates to the respective service points where the vacancies exist.

Applicants must hold a Grade 12 certificate as well as a Bachelor of Social Work degree that allows for professional registration with the South African Council for Social Services Professions as a Social Worker. Computer literacy and a valid driver’s licence are also essential. Beyond the formal qualifications, the role requires a sound understanding of social dynamics, human behaviour and social systems, as well as knowledge of social work legislation, social intervention and empowerment strategies, and the protection of vulnerable individuals. Strong written and verbal communication, teamwork, planning and organising, diversity management, and a commitment to social work values and principles are all important. The department also looks for competencies in community development, including knowledge of community dynamics, networking and partnership building, community development programmes and legislation, and community development research. Additional competencies expected include project management, team leadership, people management, conflict management, financial management, and the ability to keep abreast of new developments in community development to enhance service delivery.

The core duties of the post revolve around providing social work services that promote social change, problem-solving in human relationships, and the empowerment and liberation of people to enhance their social well-being. Social workers will focus on protecting individuals who are vulnerable, at risk, or unable to protect themselves. This includes conducting assessments to identify conditions in individuals, groups, families and communities that warrant intervention; making recommendations on appropriate interventions; and implementing those interventions through continuous support, counselling, guidance and advice. Social workers are also expected to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions they implement, report on progress, and identify further amended interventions to address the identified conditions. This professional role therefore combines direct client-facing support with structured assessment, planning, and reporting responsibilities.

This is a government social work post, so the salary is determined in accordance with the Occupation Specific Dispensation for social workers. The advertised package is for Grade 1, and the successful incumbent will be expected to work within the applicable public service frameworks, including social work ethics, legislative mandates and departmental policies. Given that there are multiple posts at different service points, applicants should be flexible regarding placement. The post offers an opportunity for a qualified social worker to contribute meaningfully to community well-being and to the protection of vulnerable groups in the North West province, with a strong emphasis on both therapeutic intervention and community development practice.