Social Worker – Umzinyathi District – Department Of Social Development

Social Worker in uMzinyathi District with the Department of Social Development, a vital 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 dedicated Social Worker for Child Protection Services in the uMzinyathi District. In this critical role, you will work closely with vulnerable individuals, families, and communities, providing essential support and advocacy to help them navigate challenges in their lives. Your contributions will directly impact the well-being of the community, fostering resilience and empowerment among those who need it most in this beautiful region of South Africa.

This position is vital to the public service, as it promotes the protection and development of at-risk populations. By engaging with local Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) and other support services, you will ensure that necessary social programs are delivered effectively. Your work will not only enhance the quality of life for many but also contribute to a more compassionate and supportive society.

About the Department

The Department of Social Development is dedicated to improving the lives of South Africans by providing comprehensive social services. Its mission revolves around empowering individuals and communities to achieve their full potential while addressing social inequalities and vulnerabilities. Working in this department means being part of a larger movement that values inclusivity, support, and proactive engagement in the community, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives every day.

What You’ll Do

  • Provide social services focused on the care, support, and protection of vulnerable individuals and families.
  • Collaborate with various stakeholders, including Non-Profit Organizations, to ensure effective service delivery.
  • Stay informed on developments in social work practices and welfare policies to enhance service provision.
  • Perform necessary administrative tasks associated with social work responsibilities.
  • Advocate for and empower individuals and communities to improve their social functioning.
  • Mentor and guide junior social workers, fostering professional growth within the team.

What You’ll Need

  • A Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 7) in Social Work.
  • Registration with the South African Council for Social Services Profession as a Social Worker.
  • A minimum of 20 years of relevant experience in social work post-registration.
  • A valid driver’s license.
  • In-depth knowledge of the South African Constitution, Public Service Act, and social welfare practices.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
  • Competence in mentoring and coaching social workers and managing performance effectively.

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 Profession 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 minimum of 20 years’ appropriate experience in Social Work after registration as a Social Worker with SACSSP; A Valid driver’s license.

Knowledge: Constitution of the Republic of South Africa; Public Service Act; Public service Regulations; Batho-Pele principles; Labour Relations; Research Methodology; Public Finance Management Act; Treasury Regulations; Knowledge and understanding of human behaviour and social systems; The ability and competence to assist; develop; advocate for; and empower individuals; families; groups; organizations and communities to enhance their functioning and their problem solving capabilities; The ability to promote; restore; maintain; advocate for; and enhance the functioning of individuals; families; groups; and communities by enabling them to accomplish tasks; prevent and alleviate distress and use resources effectively; The understanding and ability to provide social services towards protecting people who are vulnerable; at risk and unable to protect themselves; The ability to mentor and coach Social Workers Grade 1; 195 Employee Performance Management and Development System.

Skills: Communication (written and verbal); Listening; Interpersonal; Computer Literacy; Research; Problem solving; Report writing; Time management; Presentation; Facilitation; Counselling; Numeracy; Language and Driving.

Job Duties

Render a social service with regard to the care, support, protection and development of vulnerable individuals, groups, families and communities through the relevant programmes; Support Services Offices and Non-Profit Organisations (NPO’s); Keep up to date with new developments in the social work and Social Welfare fields of probation services; Perform all the administrative functions require of the jobs.

in the social work and Social Welfare fields perform all the administrative functions required of the jobs.

Salary

Grade 3: R496 668 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 RZ Sibisi Tel No: (034) 299 7550 uMzinyathi District