Assistant Director: Social Relief – Pretoria – Department Of Social Development

Assistant Director: Social Relief at the Department of Social Development in Pretoria, a vital government job in South Africa

Published 10 September 2026
Closing Date 18 September 2026 — 0 days left
Location
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Social Development is seeking a committed and skilled Assistant Director: Social Relief to join its team in Pretoria. This position plays a vital role in managing the development, implementation, and monitoring of policies and frameworks for social relief programmes that directly impact the lives of vulnerable communities. By ensuring the timely and equitable distribution of relief resources, this role helps foster resilience and support for those in distress, making a significant difference in the public service sector.

As part of this dynamic department, the Assistant Director will collaborate with stakeholders and community organisations to identify needs and enhance the effectiveness of social relief interventions. Based in Pretoria, the successful candidate will be part of a dedicated team focused on addressing the challenges faced by individuals and families in need, reinforcing the commitment of the South African government to social welfare and community support.

About the Department

The Department of Social Development is tasked with promoting social cohesion and the well-being of all South Africans. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities through a range of services and support systems. Working in this department offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the development and implementation of policies that uplift and empower the most vulnerable members of society.

What You’ll Do

  • Manage the development, implementation, and review of social relief policies and strategies.
  • Plan and coordinate training sessions for stakeholders on relevant policies and programmes.
  • Oversee emergency relief interventions, ensuring resources are distributed equitably and promptly.
  • Maintain comprehensive records of social relief budgets and expenditures.
  • Facilitate partnerships with NGOs and community organisations to enhance service delivery.
  • Conduct assessments to identify community needs and improve the reach of social relief initiatives.

What You’ll Need

  • An appropriate qualification at NQF Level 6 in Social Sciences, Economics, Public Administration, or Disaster Management.
  • 2-3 years of supervisory experience in a relevant field.
  • Strong knowledge of the Public Service Act and regulations, as well as the Social Development Sector.
  • Familiarity with policies related to social relief, financial management, and disaster management.
  • Excellent communication, planning, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and independently under pressure, demonstrating emotional intelligence and integrity.

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.

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Requirements

An appropriate qualification at NQF Level 6 as recognised by SAQA in Social Sciences/ Economics/ Public Administration or Disaster Management PLUS 2- 3 years’ experience at supervisory level.

Knowledge and understanding of Public Service Act and Regulations.

Knowledge and understanding of the Social Development Sector.

Knowledge and understanding of policies supporting the provision of Social Relief of Distress.

Knowledge and understanding of PFMA and Treasury Regulations.

Knowledge and understanding of the Disaster Management Act and Framework.

Knowledge and understanding of SASSA Act.

Knowledge and understanding of Social Assistance Act and Regulations.

Knowledge and understanding of the Fund- Raising Act.

Knowledge and understanding of Financial Management Policies.

Knowledge and understanding of the Emergency Relief Disbursement policy.

Competencies needed: Communication (written and verbal) skills.

Planning and organising skills.

Facilitation and presentation skills.

Financial management skills.

Stakeholder and client liaison skills.

Project administration skills.

Policy analysis skills.

Problem-solving skills.

Computer literacy skills.

Analytical skills.

Report writing skills.

Attributes: Good interpersonal relations.

Innovation and creativity.

Ability to work under pressure.

Ability to work in a team and independently.

Compliance.

Emotional intelligence.

Independent thinking.

Cost consciousness.

Trustworthy.

Honesty, reliability and integrity.

Assertiveness.

Job Duties

Manage the development, implementation, review, and monitoring of policies, legislation, frameworks and strategies for administration of social relief programmes.

Plan, manage and capacitate stakeholders on policies, legislation, strategies and programmes in respect of social relief.

Coordinate emergency relief interventions with organisations/stakeholders, to ensure timely and equitable distribution of relief.

Manage the allocated budget and keep records of all social relief of Distress emergency relief funds.

Facilitate partnerships and engagements with communities, NGOs, and community- based organisations to identify needs to improve the delivery of social relief interventions and to strengthen programme reach.

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Salary

R487 197 per annum

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered. Do not submit duplicate applications. If applying for multiple posts, submit separate applications for each post. Due to high volumes, the Department will not acknowledge receipt of applications. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not heard from us within 3 months, please consider your application to be unsuccessful. Should, during any stage of the recruitment process, a moratorium be placed on the filling of posts or the Department is affected by any process such as, but not limited to, restructuring or reorganisation of posts, the Department reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process and re- advertise the post at any time in the future. Important: DOA is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting representivity and affirmative action. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates. The Department reserves the right not to fill vacancies. By applying you consent to the collection and processing of your personal information for recruitment purposes. Shortlisted candidates will be required to be available for assessments and interviews at a date and time as determined by the Department. Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, security vetting and reference checks (including social media profiles). Applications must declare any pending criminal, disciplinary or any other allegations or investigations. Successful candidates must pass security clearance, sign an employment contract, sign an annual performance agreement and disclose financial interests. All applicants are required to declare any conflict or perceived conflict of interest, to disclose memberships of Boards and directorships that they may be associated with. Failure to disclose relevant information may result in disqualification or termination. MANAGEMENT ECHELON For Enquiries: Dr M Mogotsi Tel No: (012) 741-7698/6833