Department of Social Development – Job Vacancies

Eastern Cape Social Development

The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development invites qualified candidates to submit their applications for various positions within Social Development Services. The Department is focused on promoting equitable representation, with a preference for designated groups, especially women and those with disabilities. Available opportunities encompass Social Work Managers, Community Development Managers, Psychologists, Nurses, Supervisors, and Practitioners.

Positions:

  • Social Work Manager: Social Welfare Services Grade 1 (X2 Posts)
  • Social Work Manager: Child Care Protection Grade 1
  • Social Work Manager: Alternative Care & Adoption Grade 1
  • Social Work Manager: Families Grade 1
  • Social Work Manager: Children Services Grade 1
  • Social Work Manager: NPO Grade 1
  • Social Work Policy Manager: Social Relief of Distress Services Grade 1
  • Community Development Manager: Sustainable Livelihoods Grade 1
  • Community Development Manager: Women Development Grade 1
  • Community Development Manager Grade 1 (X2 Posts)
  • Psychologist Grade 1
  • Chief Professional Nurse Grade 1
  • Social Work Supervisor Grade 1 (X6 Posts)
  • Community Development Supervisor Grade 1 (X2 Posts)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (X5 Posts)
  • Community Development Practitioner Grade 1 (X3 Posts)

Locations:

  • Alfred Nzo: District Office, Mount Ayliff
  • Sarah Baartman: District Office, Makana
  • Provincial Office, Bhisho
  • OR Tambo: District Office, Mthatha
  • Sarah Baartman: District Office, Makanda
  • NMM: Ernest Malgas Treatment Centre, New Brighton
  • BCM: Silver Crown Old Age Home, East London
  • Sarah Baartman: Steytlerville Service Delivery Centre
  • Chris Hani: Enoch Mgijima, Queenstown
  • Chris Hani: Intsika Yethu, Cofimvaba
  • BCM: Bisho CYCC
  • BCM: King Williams Town LSO
  • Alfred Nzo: Ntabankulu
  • BCM: Zwelitsha LSO
  • Amathole: Mbashe LSO, Dutywa
  • Amathole: Peddie LSO
  • NMM: Walmer LSO
  • NMM: Uitenhage
  • OR Tambo: Flagstaff SDP
  • OR Tambo: Tsolo SDP
  • NMM: Motherwell Service Office
  • Alfred Nzo: Mbizana LSO
  • Alfred Nzo: Matatiele (Maluti SO)
Social Work Manager: Social Welfare Services Grade 1 (X2 Posts)
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre:
  • Alfred Nzo: District Office, Mount Ayliff (Ref No: DSD 01/08/2025)
  • Sarah Baartman: District Office, Makana (Ref No: DSD 02/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • National Senior Certificate plus Bachelor of Social Work
  • Latest proof of registration with SACSSP as Social Worker
  • Minimum of 10 years’ appropriate experience in Social Work after registration, including 5 years at Social Work Supervisor level in Developmental Social Welfare Services (Services to Older Persons, Persons with Disabilities, HIV & AIDS, Social Relief)
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Strategic Capacity and Leadership, Programme and Project Management, Change Management, Financial Management, People Management, Knowledge Management, Problem Solving, Client Orientation, Communication, Advanced Computer Literacy

Duties:

  • Provide advanced social work services in areas such as Services to Older Persons, Persons with Disabilities, HIV & AIDS, and Social Relief
  • Manage and support Developmental Social Welfare Services Programmes
  • Facilitate programme development and planning
  • Manage a social work unit to ensure efficient service delivery
  • Conduct social work research and development
  • Perform administrative functions

Enquiries:

  • Alfred Nzo: Mr S Shweni, Tel: (039) 254 0900
  • Sarah Baartman: Mr M Sipambo, Tel: (046) 636-1484
  • e-Recruitment Technical Support: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Social Work Manager: Child Care Protection Grade 1
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre: Provincial Office, Bhisho (Ref No: DSD 03/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • National Senior Certificate plus Bachelor of Social Work
  • Latest proof of registration with SACSSP as Social Worker (submitted when shortlisted)
  • Minimum of 10 years’ appropriate experience in Social Work, including 5 years at Social Work Supervisory level
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Knowledge of Children’s Act, Public Service Regulations, PFMA, Strategic Leadership, Programme Management, Communication

Duties:

  • Develop and implement policies and strategic plans
  • Facilitate implementation of the Children’s Act
  • Manage Child Protection Services and Child and Youth Care Centres
  • Coordinate intersectoral collaboration
  • Monitor and evaluate child protection services

Enquiries: Mr Y Singqandu, Tel: (043) 605 5042/59, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Social Work Manager: Alternative Care & Adoption Grade 1
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre: Provincial Office, Bhisho (Ref No: DSD 04/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • National Senior Certificate plus Bachelor of Social Work
  • Latest proof of registration with SACSSP as Social Worker (submitted when shortlisted)
  • Minimum of 10 years’ appropriate experience in Social Work, including 5 years at Social Work Supervisory level
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Project Management, Communication, Leadership, Policy Analysis, Programme Evaluation

Duties:

  • Develop and maintain policies for alternative care and adoption
  • Monitor and review legislation and policies
  • Coordinate sector activities and oversee programme implementation
  • Conduct research to inform policy development

Enquiries: Mr Y Singqandu, Tel: (043) 605 5042/59, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Social Work Manager: Families Grade 1
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre: Provincial Office, Bhisho (Ref No: DSD 05/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • National Senior Certificate plus Bachelor of Social Work
  • Latest proof of registration with SACSSP as Social Worker (submitted when shortlisted)
  • Minimum of 10 years’ appropriate experience in Social Work, including 5 years at Social Work Supervisory level
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Project Management, Communication, Leadership, Policy Analysis

Duties:

  • Provide strategic leadership for family-focused social work services
  • Manage and coordinate family preservation and support programs
  • Engage stakeholders for integrated service delivery
  • Monitor and evaluate programme outcomes

Enquiries: Mr Y Singqandu, Tel: (043) 605 5042/59, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Social Work Manager: Children Services Grade 1
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre: OR Tambo: District Office, Mthatha (Ref No: DSD 06/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • National Senior Certificate plus Bachelor of Social Work
  • Latest proof of registration with SACSSP as Social Worker (submitted when shortlisted)
  • Minimum of 10 years’ appropriate experience in Social Work, including 5 years at Supervisory level in Children Services
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Project Management, Communication, Leadership, Policy Analysis

Duties:

  • Manage and coordinate child-focused social work programs
  • Engage stakeholders for integrated service delivery
  • Ensure policy implementation and compliance
  • Develop monitoring and evaluation frameworks

Enquiries: Ms Z Dlanjwa, Tel: (047) 531 2504, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Social Work Manager: NPO Grade 1
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre: Sarah Baartman: District Office, Makanda (Ref No: DSD 07/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • National Senior Certificate plus Bachelor of Social Work
  • Latest proof of registration with SACSSP as Social Worker (submitted when shortlisted)
  • Minimum of 10 years’ appropriate experience in Social Work, including 5 years at Social Work Supervisory level with NPO Management experience
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Understanding of NPO Sector, NPO Act, PFMA, Communication, Project Management

Duties:

  • Manage NPO registration, funding, and compliance
  • Oversee fund allocation and monitor utilization
  • Implement and monitor NPO policies
  • Develop frameworks to assess NPO performance

Enquiries: Mr M Sipambo, Tel: (046) 636-1484, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Social Work Policy Manager: Social Relief of Distress Services Grade 1
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre: Provincial Office, Bhisho (Ref No: DSD 08/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • National Senior Certificate plus Bachelor of Social Work
  • Latest proof of registration with SACSSP as Social Worker
  • Minimum of 10 years’ appropriate experience in Social Work, including 5 years at Social Work Supervisory level
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Policy Development, Leadership, Communication, Resource Management

Duties:

  • Develop and maintain social work policies for social relief
  • Monitor and review legislation and policies
  • Manage a Social Relief of Distress unit
  • Ensure training and professional development of subordinates

Enquiries: Mr Y Singqandu, Tel: (043) 605 5042/59, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Community Development Manager: Sustainable Livelihoods Grade 1
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre: Provincial Office, Bhisho (Ref No: DSD 09/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • Three-year tertiary qualification in Community Development/Social Science/Developmental Studies
  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in Community Development, including 5 years at Supervisory level
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Leadership, Communication, Organizational Skills, Resource Management

Duties:

  • Design and oversee sustainable livelihoods programs
  • Collaborate with stakeholders for integrated service delivery
  • Monitor and evaluate programme outcomes
  • Manage resources effectively

Enquiries: Mr Y Singqandu, Tel: (043) 605 5042/59, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Community Development Manager: Women Development Grade 1
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre: Provincial Office, Bhisho (Ref No: DSD 10/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • Three-year tertiary qualification in Community Development/Social Science/Developmental Studies
  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in Community Development, including 5 years at Supervisory level
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Leadership, Communication, Gender Equality Knowledge, Resource Management

Duties:

  • Oversee women-focused development programs
  • Engage stakeholders for integrated service delivery
  • Monitor and evaluate programme outcomes
  • Manage resources effectively

Enquiries: Mr Y Singqandu, Tel: (043) 605 5042/59, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Community Development Manager Grade 1 (X2 Posts)
  • Salary: R970,686 – R1,109,877 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre:
  • OR Tambo: District Office, Mthatha (Ref No: DSD 11/08/2025)
  • Alfred Nzo: District Office, Mount Ayliff (Ref No: DSD 12/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • Three-year tertiary qualification in Community Development/Social Science/Developmental Studies
  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in Community Development, including 5 years at Supervisory level
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Leadership, Communication, Organizational Skills, Resource Management

Duties:

  • Oversee community development programs
  • Engage stakeholders for integrated service delivery
  • Monitor and evaluate programme outcomes
  • Manage resources effectively

Enquiries:

  • OR Tambo: Ms Z Dlanjwa, Tel: (047) 531 2504
  • Alfred Nzo: Mr S Shweni, Tel: (039) 254 0900
  • e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Psychologist Grade 1
  • Salary: R872,709 – R957,300 per annum (all-inclusive, OSD)
  • Centre: NMM: Ernest Malgas Treatment Centre, New Brighton (Ref No: DSD 13/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • Master’s degree in Psychology (Clinical) recognised by SAQA
  • Registration with HPCSA as a Psychologist
  • Current Annual Practicing Certificate with HPCSA
  • Competencies: Knowledge of Mental Health Care Act, Children’s Act, Psychometric Assessments, Counselling Skills

Duties:

  • Conduct psychological assessments and interventions
  • Provide therapeutic services (individual, group, family therapy)
  • Undertake psychometric testing

Enquiries: Ms L. Thompson, Tel: (041) 406-5899, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Chief Professional Nurse Grade 1
  • Salary: R549,192 – R629,121 per annum (OSD)
  • Centre: BCM: Silver Crown Old Age Home, East London (Ref No: DSD 14/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • Diploma/Degree in Nursing (NQF Level 6/7)
  • Minimum of 7 years’ experience in nursing after registration with SANC
  • Current annual registration with SANC
  • Competencies: Knowledge of Nursing Statutes, Public Service Policies, Clinical Guidelines, Communication, Leadership

Duties:

  • Provide comprehensive nursing care
  • Implement nursing interventions based on assessed needs
  • Ensure compliance with clinical protocols and quality standards
  • Manage resources and participate in budget planning

Enquiries: Ms P. Gqabantshi, Tel: (043) 705-5675, e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Indian/White Male with disabilities

Social Work Supervisor Grade 1 (X6 Posts)
  • Salary: R477,564 – R561,378 per annum (OSD)
  • Centre:
  • Sarah Baartman: Steytlerville Service Delivery Centre (Ref No: DSD 15/08/2025)
  • Chris Hani: Enoch Mgijima, Queenstown (Ref No: DSD 16/08/2025)
  • Chris Hani: Intsika Yethu, Cofimvaba (Ref No: DSD 17/08/2025)
  • BCM: Bisho CYCC (Ref No: DSD 18/08/2025)
  • BCM: King Williams Town LSO (Ref No: DSD 19/08/2025)
  • Alfred Nzo: Ntabankulu (Ref No: DSD 20/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • National Senior Certificate plus Bachelor of Social Work
  • Latest proof of registration with SACSSP as Social Worker
  • Minimum of 7 years’ appropriate experience in Social Work
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Communication, Teamwork, Planning, Computer Literacy, Problem Solving

Duties:

  • Supervise social work interventions addressing poverty, inequality, and exclusion
  • Ensure effective social work services for individuals, families, and communities
  • Promote social empowerment and problem-solving capacities

Enquiries:

  • Sarah Baartman: Mr M Sipambo, Tel: (046) 636-1484
  • Chris Hani: Ms Mzinjana, Tel: (045) 808-3709
  • BCM: Ms P. Gqabantshi, Tel: (043) 705-5675
  • Alfred Nzo: Mr S Shweni, Tel: (039) 254 0900
  • e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Community Development Supervisor Grade 1 (X2 Posts)
  • Salary: R453,201 – R514,470 per annum (OSD)
  • Centre:
  • BCM: Zwelitsha LSO (Ref No: DSD 21/08/2025)
  • Amathole: Mbashe LSO, Dutywa (Ref No: DSD 22/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • Three-year tertiary qualification in Community Development, Development Studies, Social Work, or equivalent
  • Minimum of 7 years’ experience in Community Development
  • Valid South African driver’s license
  • Competencies: Financial Management, Communication, Problem Solving, Computer Literacy

Duties:

  • Supervise community development interventions
  • Manage and coordinate community projects
  • Facilitate partnerships and stakeholder collaboration
  • Conduct community development research

Enquiries:

  • BCM: Ms P. Kula, Tel: (043) 705-5675
  • Amathole: Ms Z. Habe, Tel: (043) 711 6626
  • e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Social Worker Grade 1 (X5 Posts)
  • Salary: R325,200 – R382,374 per annum (OSD)
  • Centre:
  • Amathole: Peddie LSO (Ref No: DSD 23/07/2025)
  • NMM: Walmer LSO (Ref No: DSD 24/08/2025)
  • NMM: Uitenhage (Ref No: DSD 25/08/2025)
  • OR Tambo: Flagstaff SDP (Ref No: DSD 26/08/2025)
  • OR Tambo: Tsolo SDP (Ref No: DSD 27/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • National Senior Certificate plus Bachelor of Social Work
  • Latest proof of registration with SACSSP as Social Worker (submitted on interview day)
  • Valid driver’s license (or proof within 6 months of appointment)
  • Competencies: Communication, Teamwork, Planning, Computer Literacy, Empathy

Duties:

  • Provide social work interventions to promote social well-being
  • Empower individuals, families, and communities
  • Protect vulnerable individuals
  • Understand and apply social work legislation

Enquiries:

  • Amathole: Ms Z. Habe, Tel: (043) 711 6626
  • OR Tambo: Ms Z Dlanjwa, Tel: (047) 531 2504
  • NMM: Ms L. Thompson, Tel: (041) 406-5899 or Ms P Tsuputse, Tel: (051) 633-1609
  • e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Community Development Practitioner Grade 1 (X3 Posts)
  • Salary: R278,169 – R324,960 per annum (OSD)
  • Centre:
  • NMM: Motherwell Service Office (Ref No: DSD 28/08/2025)
  • Alfred Nzo: Mbizana LSO (Ref No: DSD 29/08/2025)
  • Alfred Nzo: Matatiele (Maluti SO) (Ref No: DSD 30/08/2025)

Requirements:

  • Three-year tertiary qualification in Community Development or equivalent
  • Competencies: Communication, Presentation Skills, Computer Literacy, Empathy, Teamwork

Duties:

  • Facilitate and implement community development programs
  • Manage and coordinate community projects
  • Provide basic counseling services
  • Conduct research to inform interventions

Enquiries:

  • NMM: Ms L. Thompson, Tel: (041) 406-5899
  • Alfred Nzo: Mr S Shweni, Tel: (039) 254 0900
  • e-Recruitment: Recruitment@ecdsd.gov.za

Note: EE Target: Coloured/White Male with disabilities

Closing Date: 12 September 2025

How to Apply:

The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the listed Social Development Services positions. To apply, follow these steps:

Obtain Application Form: Use the Z.83 Application for Employment Form, available from any Public Service department or at www.gov.za.

Prepare Application Documents:

  • Complete the Z.83 form, ensuring all sections are filled accurately.
  • Include a comprehensive CV with details of at least two contactable referees who have recently worked with the applicant.
  • Attach certified copies of qualifications and identity document (certification stamp must be original and not older than six months).
  • For Social Work positions, provide the latest proof of registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) as a Social Worker (submit on the interview day or when shortlisted, as specified).

Apply Here: Department of Social Development – Job Vacancies

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