Social Work Manager – Ethekwini South District Office – Department Of Social Development

Social Work Manager at the Department of Social Development in eThekwini South District Office, a rewarding government job in South Africa

Published 14 October 2026
Closing Date Closed
Location
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Social Development is seeking a passionate and dedicated Social Work Manager for the Quality Assurance team, based in the eThekwini South District Office. This role is vital in providing advanced social work services that support vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. As part of the public service, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the wellbeing of those in need, ensuring that they receive the care and support necessary for their development and protection.

In this role, you will be at the forefront of social work practice, working collaboratively with various stakeholders to develop and implement effective programs that serve the community. By managing a social work unit, you will ensure that services are delivered efficiently and effectively, making a significant impact on the lives of many. Your expertise and leadership will not only enhance service delivery but also contribute to the overall improvement of social systems within the community.

About the Department

The Department of Social Development is committed to fostering social cohesion and addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in South Africa. It aims to promote the well-being of individuals, families, and communities, ensuring access to the necessary resources and support. Working within this department means being part of a mission-driven team that strives to make a tangible difference in people’s lives through innovative social work practices and policies.

What You’ll Do

  • Provide specialized social work services focused on care, support, protection, and development.
  • Develop and plan programs and interventions in partnership with stakeholders.
  • Manage a social work unit to ensure the effective delivery of services.
  • Stay informed about new developments in the social work field to enhance service delivery.
  • Oversee social work research and development initiatives.
  • Perform necessary administrative functions within the unit.

What You’ll Need

  • Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 7) in Social Work.
  • Registration with the South African Council for Social Services Professions as a Social Worker.
  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in Social Work after registration.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • In-depth knowledge of relevant legislation and social work practices.
  • Strong skills in communication, problem-solving, and analytical thinking.

How to Apply

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

Requirements

Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 7) in Social Work.

Registration with the South African Council for Social Services Professions as a Social Worker.

Only Shortlisted candidates will submit proof of current registration with the South African Council for Social Services Profession as a Social Worker.

A valid driver’s license.

A minimum of 10 years’ experience in Social Work after registration as a Social Worker with SACSSP.

Knowledge: Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Public Service Act, Public Service Regulations, Labour Relations Act, Research Methodology, Public Finance Management Act, Treasury Regulations, Employee Performance Management and Development System, Expert skills to challenge structural sources of poverty, inequality, oppression, discrimination and exclusion, Expert knowledge and understanding of human behaviour and social systems and skills to intervene at the points where people interact with their environment in order to promote social wellbeing, The understanding and ability to provide complex social work services towards protecting people who are vulnerable, at-risk and unable to protect themselves, The ability and competence to assist and empower individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities to enhance their social functioning and their problem solving capabilities, prevent and alleviate distress and use resources effectively in cases where expert knowledge is required.

Skills: Communication, Language, Interpersonal relations, Computer literacy, Research, Problem Solving, Advanced Report writing, Conflict management, Time Management, Advanced welfare counselling, Analytical thinking, Presentation, Financial Management, Numeracy, Driving.

Job Duties

Provide a social work service of the highest, most advanced and specialized nature within (a) defined area(s) of specialization regarding the care, support, protection and development of vulnerable individuals, groups, families and communities through the relevant programmes in partnership with stakeholders.

Facilitate the development and planning of programmes and interventions to render a social work service through the efficient, economical and effective utilization of financial resources.

Manage a social work unit to ensure that an efficient and effective social work service is delivered through the efficient and effective utilization of human resources; Keep up to date with new developments in the social work field to enhance service delivery.

Plan and ensure that social work research and development are undertaken.

Perform and/ or ensure that all the administrative functions required in the unit are performed

Salary

Grade 1: R1 009 512 per annum, (all-inclusive 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: Ms NC Gebashe Tel No: (031) 336 8776 eThekwini South District