About the Role
The Department of Social Development is currently seeking a dedicated professional for the position of Assistant Director: S/DIR: ECD Centres – Conditional Grant, based at the Head Office in Mbombela. This role is crucial in enhancing the quality of data management within the Early Childhood Administration and Reporting System (eCares). As a member of the team, you will play an essential part in ensuring that Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs are effectively monitored and improved, thus positively impacting the lives of children and families in the surrounding communities. The continuous enhancement of data accuracy will support better decision-making and resource allocation within the department, ultimately benefiting the public service and the future of South Africa.
Your responsibilities will involve close collaboration with various stakeholders at national, provincial, and district levels. By supporting users with data entry, uploads, and troubleshooting, you will help ensure that ECD initiatives run smoothly and efficiently. This role not only requires technical expertise but also a passion for community service and a commitment to fostering educational and developmental opportunities for children.
About the Department
The Department of Social Development is dedicated to improving the wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities across South Africa. Its mission includes the promotion of social cohesion, the enhancement of quality of life, and the provision of essential services that empower communities. Working within this department means contributing to meaningful change and supporting initiatives that uplift and sustain the most vulnerable members of society.
What You’ll Do
- Monitor and improve the accuracy, completeness, and consistency of ECD data in eCares.
- Support district and provincial users with data entry, uploads, and troubleshooting.
- Conduct data quality checks and implement improvement measures.
- Maintain records of discrepancies and resolutions, preparing routine reports for stakeholders.
- Provide user training and capacity-building sessions, both virtually and in-person.
- Advocate for the use of eCares reports and dashboards in planning and service delivery for ECD operations.
- Collaborate with national, provincial, and district stakeholders to enhance data quality practices.
- Design and implement reviews to ensure data quality and completeness.
What You’ll Need
- A SAQA-recognised three-year post-matric qualification (NQF L6 or higher) in Data Management, Information Systems, Statistics, Social Sciences, Monitoring and Evaluation, or a related field.
- Five years of experience in data management, data quality assurance, monitoring, or system support.
- Knowledge of database management and business intelligence reporting, with proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data validation.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail, with the ability to work independently.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder coordination skills.
- A valid driver’s license and a willingness to travel provincially.
How to Apply
Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.
Looking for more South African government jobs? Browse the latest vacancies on JobsSouthAfrica.co.za. If you are applying for the first time, read our Complete Guide to Applying for Government Jobs in South Africa, covering the Z83 form, certified copies, CV format, interview tips and more.
Requirements
A SAQA-recognised three-year post-matric qualification (NQF L6 or higher) in Data Management, Information Systems, Statistics, Social Sciences, Monitoring and Evaluation or a related field.Five years’ experience in data management, data quality assurance, monitoring or system support.
Experience in the education sector data (e.
g.
, EMIS) or ECD programmes is beneficial.
Knowledge of database management.
Knowledge of business intelligence reporting.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data validation.
Strong proficiency in Business Intelligence tools (e.
g.
, Power BI, Tableau) is advantageous.
Command of basic database and reporting processes.
Ability to support end-users and provide helpdesk-style guidance.
Good communication (verbal and written) and stakeholder coordination skills.
Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently.
A valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel provincially.
All shortlisted 173 candidates, including the SMS, shall undertake two pre-entry assessments.
One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment.
Job Duties
Monitoring and improving accuracy, completeness and consistency of ECD data in the Early Childhood Administration and Reporting System (eCares).Supporting district and provincial users with data entry, uploads, corrections and troubleshooting.
Conducting data quality checks and implementing improvement measures.
Maintaining records of discrepancies, resolutions and reporting artefacts.
Supporting the preparation of routine provincial and district reports.
Conducting and supporting user training and capacity-building.
Promoting the utilisation of dashboards and reports for planning and service delivery.
Supporting user access management and assisting with system usage queries.
Collaborating with national, provincial and district stakeholders to drive improved data quality practices.
Conducting or supporting training sessions (virtually and in-person) for provincial and district users on data quality requirements (working with a provincial training team).
Reinforcing the importance of accurate data entry and maintenance.
Sharing tips and guidance for improving data quality.
Designing and implementing data quality and completeness reviews.
Advocating for the use of eCares reports and dashboards to support ECD operations and planning.
Advocating and training provincial and district users in using reports and dashboards to support their operations and planning for ECD, including data collection where appropriate.
Ensuring that reports and new plans are prepared with enough lead time to get the necessary approvals.
