Child & Youth Care Worker – Durban – Department Of Social Development

Child & Youth Care Worker at the Department of Social Development in Durban, a meaningful government job in South Africa

Published 14 October 2026
Closing Date 23 October 2026 — 3 days left
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Social Development is seeking dedicated individuals for the position of Child & Youth Care Worker at the Excelsior Child and Youth Care Centre in the eThekwini North District, as well as at the Umlazi Child and Youth Care Centre. This role is crucial in providing compassionate care and support to vulnerable children and youth, ensuring they receive the medical services and developmental activities they need to thrive. Working in these centres, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of young individuals, helping them navigate their challenges and encouraging their personal growth within a safe environment.

Based in the vibrant city of Durban, the Excelsior and Umlazi centres are dedicated to creating a nurturing atmosphere that promotes the well-being and development of children and youth. By joining the team, you will contribute to a mission that significantly impacts the community, fostering hope and resilience among those who need it most. Your efforts will help lay the groundwork for a brighter future for these young individuals, making this an incredibly rewarding position in the public service sector.

About the Department

The Department of Social Development is committed to enhancing the quality of life for all South Africans through integrated social services. Its mission focuses on promoting social justice and providing comprehensive support to vulnerable populations, including children and youth. By working in this department, you will be part of a larger vision aimed at fostering a just society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, making your work not only meaningful but also essential to the country’s development.

What You’ll Do

  • Welcome and receive children and youth after their admission to the care facility.
  • Ensure that all children and youth receive necessary medical services promptly.
  • Assist in implementing planned activities that promote development and provide therapeutic support.
  • Engage in life-space work to facilitate the growth and care of children and youth.
  • Perform relevant administrative tasks to support the operations of the care facility.

What You’ll Need

  • National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Child and Youth Care Development.
  • Registration with the South African Council for Social Services Professions as a Child and Youth Care Worker.
  • Knowledge of the Public Service Act, Batho-Pele principles, and developmental programmes.
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
  • Basic computer literacy and numeracy skills.

How to Apply

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

Requirements

Qualifications: National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Child and Youth Care Development.

Registration with the South African Council for Social Services Professions as a Child and Youth Care Worker, Only shortlisted candidates will submit proof of Current Registration with the South African Council for Social Services Professions as a Child and Youth Care Worker.

Knowledge: Public Service Act, Public Service Regulations, Batho-Pele principles, Developmental programmes, Clerical/ Administrative procedures, Knowledge of the rules and procedures of centre.

Skills: - Communication, Problem Solving, Interpersonal relations, Organising, Counselling, Computer literacy, Numeracy, Language.

Job Duties

Receive children and youth to the care facility after admission, Ensure that children/youth receive medical services, Assist with the implementation of planned activities development and therapeutic programmes, Engage in basic life space work to promote the development and care of children and youth, Perform administrative work relevant to the job.

Salary

Grade 1: R191 694 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. OTHER POSTS For Enquiries: Ms T Blose Tel No: (031) 336 8865, eThekwini North District Ms NC Gebashe Tel No: (031) 336 8787, eThekwini South District