Social Work Manager – Cape Town – Department Of Social Development

Social Work Manager at the Department of Social Development in Cape Town, making a difference in government jobs in South Africa

Published 11 September 2026
Closing Date 28 September 2026 — 0 days left
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Social Development is seeking a dedicated Social Work Manager for its Regional Office in Cape Town, Western Cape. This pivotal role involves providing social welfare and community development services that enhance the lives of vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. By working closely with various stakeholders, the Social Work Manager will implement programs that address social instability and foster the well-being of the community. This position is not just a job; it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact in the lives of those who need it most.

As a Social Work Manager, you will lead efforts to ensure that social welfare services meet the highest standards of care and support. Your expertise will guide the planning and execution of initiatives that promote development and protection for those in need. The role is crucial for creating a stable and nurturing environment in Cape Town, contributing to the city’s overall health and resilience.

About the Department

The Department of Social Development is committed to fostering an inclusive society through comprehensive social welfare programs. Its mission is to provide essential services that uplift communities and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations. By joining this department, you will be part of a dedicated team that strives to create positive change, making a real difference in the lives of South Africans. Your work will align with the department’s vision of a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

What You’ll Do

  • Deliver high-level social welfare and community development services focused on vulnerable groups.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to develop effective programs and interventions.
  • Manage service delivery units to ensure efficient and effective service provision.
  • Conduct and supervise complex social welfare research to inform program development.
  • Keep abreast of new developments in the social work field to enhance service delivery.
  • Oversee all administrative functions related to service delivery areas.

What You’ll Need

  • A formal tertiary qualification in Social Work (e.g., Bachelor of Social Work) eligible for registration with the SACSSP.
  • Compulsory registration with the SACSSP as a Social Worker.
  • A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in social work after registration.
  • Knowledge of social welfare legislation, assessment tools, and community development theories.
  • Strong personnel management and leadership skills.

How to Apply

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

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Requirements

Formal tertiary qualification in Social Work (e.

g.

Bachelor of Social Work) that allows professional registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP); Compulsory registration with SACSSP as a Social Worker; A minimum of 10 years appropriate/ recognisable experience in social work after registration as Social Worker with the SACSSP.

Competencies: Knowledge of the following: Analytic, diagnostic, assessment tools, evaluation methods and processes (Social Work); Personnel Management; Supervision Framework for Social Work profession; Social Welfare and Community Development legislation related to children; Social Welfare and Community Development theory and interventions; Information and Knowledge Management; Protocol and professional ethics.

Job Duties

Provide a Social Welfare and Community Development service of the highest, most advanced and specialised nature within a defined area(s) of specialisation with regard to the care, support, protection and development of vulnerable individuals, groups, families and communities through the relevant programmes in partnership with stakeholders.

Attend to any other matters that could result in, or stem from, social instability in any form; Facilitate the development and planning of programmes and interventions to render a social welfare and community development service through the efficient, economical 327 and effective utilisation of financial resources; Management of service delivery area(s) (unit(s)) to ensure that an efficient and effective social welfare and community development service is delivered through the efficient and effective utilisation of human resources; Plan and ensure that social welfare and community development research are undertaken; Undertake complex social welfare and community development research.

Perform and / or ensure that all the administrative function required in the service delivery area(s) are performed; Keep up to date with new developments in the Social Welfare and Community Development field; Supervise all the administrative functions required in the service delivery area(s) and undertake the higher-level administrative functions.

Salary

Grade 1: R1 009 512 - R1 154 271 per annum, (as prescribed by OSD) Grade 2: R1 200 894 – R1 414 593 per annum, (as prescribed by OSD)

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: Ms A van Reenen Tel No: (021) 483 3996