Social Work Manager – Ilembe District – Department Of Social Development

Social Work Manager in the Department of Social Development, iLembe District, offering impactful 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 dedicated individuals for the role of Social Work Manager: Social Welfare Services in iLembe District and King Cetshwayo District. This position plays a crucial role in ensuring the care, support, and protection of vulnerable individuals, families, and communities throughout KwaZulu-Natal. By developing and managing social work programmes, you will directly impact the wellbeing of those in need, making a real difference in the lives of South Africans.

These positions are vital in creating a safer and more supportive environment for at-risk populations. As a Social Work Manager, you will lead a team dedicated to addressing complex social issues and empower communities through effective intervention strategies. Your expertise will be instrumental in shaping and implementing innovative welfare services that respond to the specific needs of your area.

About the Department

The Department of Social Development is committed to promoting social justice and equity across South Africa. Its mission encompasses a wide range of services aimed at enhancing the social functioning of individuals and communities. By working within this department, you will contribute to meaningful initiatives that foster social cohesion and uplift disadvantaged groups, ensuring every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

What You’ll Do

  • Deliver high-level social work services tailored to the needs of vulnerable populations.
  • Develop and oversee the implementation of social welfare programmes in collaboration with stakeholders.
  • Manage a social work unit, ensuring effective service delivery through optimal use of human resources.
  • Stay informed of new developments in social work to continually enhance service delivery.
  • Conduct and facilitate social work research and development initiatives.
  • Oversee administrative functions and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

What You’ll Need

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (NQF Level 7).
  • Registration with the South African Council for Social Services Professions as a Social Worker.
  • A valid driver’s license.
  • At least 10 years of post-registration experience in Social Work.
  • In-depth knowledge of relevant legislation and frameworks, including the Constitution of South Africa and the Public Service Act.
  • Strong skills in communication, problem-solving, financial management, and advanced report writing.

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 with regard to 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 SH Mfeka Tel No: (031) 336 8727 iLembe District Ms NW Dludla Tel No: (035) 794 5018 King Cetshwayo District