Community Development Manager: Social Relief – Cape Town – Department Of Social Development

Community Development Manager: Social Relief in Cape Town at the Department of Social Development, a vital government job in South Africa

Published 20 October 2026
Closing Date 30 October 2026
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Social Development is seeking a dedicated Community Development Manager: Social Relief based in Cape Town, Western Cape. This pivotal role involves managing the identification, facilitation, and implementation of integrated development interventions that directly benefit the community. By collaborating with various stakeholders, you will ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively to support community needs. The significance of this role extends beyond mere project management; it is about fostering community resilience and empowerment, addressing social challenges, and enhancing the quality of life for residents in the area.

Working in this position means being at the forefront of community development initiatives that resonate at the heart of public service. You will have the opportunity to shape policies and strategies that guide the provision of essential services to the most vulnerable members of society. Your leadership will not only impact the immediate community in Cape Town but will also set a precedent for best practices in community development across South Africa.

About the Department

The Department of Social Development plays a crucial role in promoting social cohesion and improving the welfare of the citizens of South Africa. Its mission encompasses fostering social development, enhancing community well-being, and ensuring that all South Africans have access to the necessary support systems. Working here means contributing to a meaningful agenda that champions social justice and equity, making it a rewarding environment for those committed to public service and community upliftment.

What You’ll Do

  • Manage the identification and facilitation of community development interventions in collaboration with stakeholders.
  • Oversee the community development policy unit to ensure effective legislative policies and procedures are developed.
  • Develop and implement policies for community development services across departments.
  • Stay informed about new developments in community development and management fields.
  • Plan and conduct research related to community development policies.
  • Undertake complex community development research to inform policy and strategy.

What You’ll Need

  • An appropriate 3-year tertiary qualification (National Diploma/B-Degree or equivalent).
  • A minimum of 10 years of recognizable experience in Community Development, with at least 5 years in community policy development.
  • A strong understanding of theories and systems in community development.
  • Skills in presentation, problem-solving, financial management, project management, and communication.
  • Competency in policy formulation and implementation, along with staff management capabilities.

How to Apply

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

Requirements

An appropriate 3-year tertiary qualification (National Diploma/B-Degree or equivalent); A minimum of 10 years recognisable experience in Community Development after obtaining the required qualification of which 5 years must be appropriate experience in community policy development.

Competencies: Knowledge and understanding of the following: Theories and systems, skills, attitudes and values in community development to guide employees on its application; Individual and group behaviour, its inter-relations within community structures, dynamics of the community and current legislation to enable interventions; Develop community development policies and strategies.

Skills in the following: Presentation; Problem-solving skills; Financial management; Project management; Computer literacy; Communication (written and verbal); Staff management; Policy formulation and implementation.

Job Duties

To manage the identification, facilitation and implementation of integrated development interventions in partnership with the community and other relevant stakeholders through the efficient, effective and economical utilisation of resources by the unit/sub directorate; Manage a community development policy unit to ensure that the required legislative policies and procedures are developed through the efficient and effective utilisation of human resources; Manage the development of policies for rendering a community development service in departments; Keep up to date with new developments in community development and management fields; Plan and ensure that community development policy research is undertaken.

Undertake complex community development research.

Salary

Grade 1: R1 009 512 per annum, (OSD as prescribed), (all-inclusive salary package)

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: Mr M Hewu Tel No: (021) 483 3054