Department of Social Development Jobs 2026 – Apply for Social Worker and Social Auxiliary Worker Posts

Limpopo Department of Social Development Vacancies 2026: Social Worker and Social Auxiliary Worker Posts

The Limpopo Department of Social Development invites suitably qualified and dedicated candidates to apply for several available vacancies within the department. The department is committed to promoting equality and transformation in the workplace and therefore operates as an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. In line with government employment equity policies, designated groups, women, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Available Positions – Limpopo Department of Social Development

  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Capricorn District – Mathabatha Clinic)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Capricorn District – All Days)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Capricorn District – Moletji-Moshate)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Capricorn District – Manamela Clinic)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Capricorn District – Senwabarwana)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Vhembe District – Fondwe Clinic)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Mopani District – Kgapane Office)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Mopani District – Rotterdam)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Mopani District – Giyani)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Mopani District – Namakgale)
  • Social Worker Grade 1 (Seshego Treatment Centre)
  • Social Auxiliary Worker (Capricorn District – Polokwane)
  • Social Auxiliary Worker (Sekhukhune District – Elias Motswaledi)

These vacancies form part of the department’s ongoing commitment to strengthening social welfare services and ensuring that vulnerable communities across Limpopo Province receive the care, protection, and development support they require. The available posts include Social Worker Grade 1 and Social Auxiliary Worker positions located in various districts within the province.

This recruitment drive provides an excellent opportunity for professionals in the social services sector to contribute to the improvement of social welfare systems, support vulnerable individuals and families, and participate in community development initiatives.

Social Worker Grade 1 (11 Posts)

Salary:
R325 200 per annum

The Limpopo Department of Social Development is recruiting 11 Social Worker Grade 1 professionals to provide social work services in various districts. The successful candidates will work closely with communities, individuals, families, and vulnerable groups to deliver professional social work interventions that improve social well-being and promote sustainable development.

Social workers play a vital role in addressing social challenges such as family instability, substance abuse, child protection concerns, poverty, and community development issues. The positions are spread across several districts in Limpopo to ensure equitable service delivery throughout the province.

Centres and Post Distribution

Capricorn District (5 Posts)

The following facilities fall within the Capricorn District:

  • Mathabatha Clinic – 1 Post
  • All Days – 1 Post
  • Moletji-Moshate – 1 Post
  • Manamela Clinic – 1 Post
  • Senwabarwana – 1 Post

Vhembe District (1 Post)

  • Fondwe Clinic – 1 Post

Mopani District (5 Posts)

  • Kgapane Office – 2 Posts
  • Rotterdam – 1 Post
  • Giyani – 1 Post
  • Namakgale – 1 Post

These positions are based in community facilities and service centres where social workers will interact directly with clients and community stakeholders.

Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for the Social Worker Grade 1 positions:

  • An appropriate qualification at NQF Level 7 in Social Work or an equivalent qualification recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
  • Current registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
  • A valid motor vehicle driver’s license, except in cases where applicants are persons with disabilities.

Candidates must demonstrate a sound understanding of the social work profession and possess the ability to engage effectively with communities and vulnerable populations.

Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Successful candidates must demonstrate the following competencies:

  • Strong knowledge of human behaviour and social systems.
  • Ability to intervene effectively where individuals interact with their social and environmental conditions.
  • Understanding of developmental social welfare policies and programmes.
  • Knowledge of programme and project management principles.
  • Information and knowledge management skills.
  • Effective communication and coordination abilities.
  • Good interpersonal and counselling skills.
  • Computer literacy, including the ability to manage electronic records and reports.

These competencies are essential to ensure that social workers deliver professional, ethical, and effective services in line with government policies and social development frameworks.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Social Worker Grade 1 position includes several important responsibilities aimed at improving the well-being of individuals and communities.

Key performance areas include:

Social Work Service Delivery

  • Provide advanced and specialized social work services to individuals, families, children, and youth. This includes addressing issues related to care, protection, development, and social support within the community.

Counselling and Support

  • Provide individual and group counselling to clients experiencing social difficulties such as family conflict, trauma, abuse, substance dependence, or socio-economic challenges.

Assessments and Interventions

  • Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify the conditions affecting clients. Based on these assessments, develop and implement appropriate intervention strategies that address the identified needs.

Monitoring and Continuous Support

  • Implement recommendations for intervention and provide ongoing support to clients to ensure positive outcomes and sustainable improvement in their well-being.

Record Keeping and Documentation

  • Maintain accurate records of social work interventions, processes, and outcomes. This documentation helps ensure accountability and supports effective monitoring and evaluation of social work services.

Research and Policy Development

  • Participate in social work research initiatives and contribute to the development of policies and programmes aimed at strengthening social welfare services.

Administrative Functions

  • Perform administrative duties associated with social work services, including report writing, case management, and documentation.

Information Management

  • Manage the Child and Youth Care Information Management System (CYCA) and ensure that all relevant data regarding child and youth services is properly recorded and maintained.
  • Through these responsibilities, social workers contribute to strengthening the social support system in Limpopo Province.

Social Worker Grade 1 – Seshego Treatment Centre (2 Posts)

Reference Number: DSD/2026/31
Salary: R325 200 per annum
Centre: Seshego Treatment Centre

The department is also recruiting two Social Worker Grade 1 professionals to work at the Seshego Treatment Centre. These positions focus primarily on addressing issues related to substance abuse, rehabilitation, and community reintegration.

Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • An NQF Level 7 qualification in Social Work or equivalent recognized by SAQA.
  • Current registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
  • A valid driver’s license, except for applicants with disabilities.

Skills and Competencies

Candidates should demonstrate:

  • Understanding of substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation processes.
  • Knowledge of programme management and rehabilitation planning.
  • Strong counselling and therapeutic intervention skills.
  • Effective communication and stakeholder collaboration abilities.
  • Information management and administrative skills.
  • Computer literacy.

Key Duties

Social workers at the Seshego Treatment Centre will focus on rehabilitation and recovery services.

Their responsibilities include:

  • Conducting intake assessments for clients admitted to the treatment programme.
  • Developing individualized treatment plans based on each client’s needs.
  • Providing therapeutic counselling and rehabilitation services.
  • Supporting clients through recovery and reintegration into their communities.
  • Facilitating aftercare services to ensure long-term recovery success.
  • Strengthening partnerships with community stakeholders involved in substance abuse prevention.
  • Ensuring compliance with administrative procedures and professional standards.
  • Participating in ongoing professional development and training.

These roles are essential in addressing substance abuse challenges and promoting healthier communities.


Social Auxiliary Worker (2 Posts)

Salary: R192 972 per annum

The Limpopo Department of Social Development is also seeking to appoint two Social Auxiliary Workers who will provide support to professional social workers and assist with the delivery of social welfare services.

Centres

Capricorn District

  • Polokwane – 1 Post

Sekhukhune District

  • Elias Motswaledi – 1 Post

Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Grade 12 (NQF Level 4) or an equivalent qualification.
  • A Social Auxiliary Worker Certificate.
  • Current registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).

Candidates must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the social welfare system and the role of social auxiliary workers within this framework.

Knowledge and Skills

Applicants should possess:

  • Basic understanding of the South African social welfare context.
  • Knowledge of developmental social welfare policies and practices.
  • Awareness of the Bill of Rights and the Social Work Code of Ethics.
  • Basic understanding of the South African judicial system and legislation affecting social services.
  • Knowledge of human behaviour and social challenges affecting communities.
  • Ability to implement social auxiliary work methods and techniques.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.

These skills are essential for supporting professional social workers and ensuring that social welfare services are delivered effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities

Social Auxiliary Workers assist social workers in providing services to vulnerable individuals and communities.

Key responsibilities include:

Support Social Workers

  • Assist social workers in delivering services related to the care, protection, and development of individuals, families, and communities.

Community Support

  • Provide assistance in addressing social challenges such as family instability, poverty, child protection concerns, and community conflict.

Client Assistance

  • Help social workers manage cases involving vulnerable groups, including children, elderly persons, and individuals experiencing social difficulties.

Professional Development

  • Stay informed about new developments in the social work and social services field to improve service delivery.

Administrative Support

  • Perform administrative tasks such as documentation, record keeping, and report preparation to support social workers in managing cases effectively.

Enquiries

For general enquiries regarding the advertised positions, applicants may contact the following officials:

  • Mr S Rasivumo
  • Ms ME Gafane
  • Mr QLM Mogotlane
  • Ms MR Semake
  • Mr LI Mosehlana

Contact Numbers:
015 230 4422
015 230 4315
015 230 4375
015 230 4434

Why Work for the Limpopo Department of Social Development

Working for the Limpopo Department of Social Development offers professionals an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in society. Employees contribute directly to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities by providing support services that promote social stability and development.

The department also provides an environment that encourages professional growth, collaboration, and the continuous development of social welfare programmes.

These positions offer candidates the chance to participate in initiatives that address critical social issues such as child protection, substance abuse, family support, and community development.

Conclusion

The vacancies advertised by the Limpopo Department of Social Development present an excellent opportunity for qualified social work professionals and social auxiliary workers to contribute to public service and community development.

Through these roles, successful candidates will play a key part in strengthening social welfare systems, supporting vulnerable populations, and improving the overall well-being of communities across Limpopo Province.

Applicants who meet the requirements and are passionate about making a positive difference in society are encouraged to apply for these rewarding career opportunities.

How to Apply

Applications must be addressed to the relevant institution depending on where the applicant wishes to apply. Candidates must ensure that their applications are directed to the correct office or district as indicated below.

Head Office, Seshego Treatment Centre, Mavambe Secure Care Centre and Polokwane Welfare Complex

Applications should be directed to:
The Head of Department
Private Bag X 9710
Polokwane
0700

Applications can also be submitted by hand at:
21 Biccard Street, Olympic Towers Building
Ground Floor, Office No. 30
Polokwane


Capricorn District / Sekutupu Old Age Home

Applications should be addressed to:
The District Director
Private Bag X 9709
Polokwane
0700

Hand delivered applications can be submitted at:
34 Hans Van Rensburg Street
Polokwane


Sekhukhune District

Applications should be addressed to:
The District Director
Private Bag X80
Lebowakgomo
0737

Hand delivered applications can be submitted at:
Old Parliament Building
Lebowakgomo


Vhembe District

Applications should be addressed to:
The District Director
Private Bag X5040
Thohoyandou
0950

Hand delivered applications can be submitted at:
Thohoyandou Child and Youth Care Centre
Thohoyandou Block F
Punda Maria Road
Thohoyandou


Waterberg District

Applications should be addressed to:
The District Director
Private Bag X1051
Modimolle
0510

Hand delivered applications can be submitted at:
Corner Elias Motswaledi and Thabo Mbeki Street
Modimolle


Mopani District

Applications should be addressed to:
The District Director
Private Bag X 9689
Giyani
0826

Hand delivered applications can be submitted at:
Department of Social Development
Unigaza Road
Giyani Section A
0826

Applicants are invited to apply for the funded vacant posts as advertised. Applicants who previously applied for re-advertised posts are encouraged to re-apply if they are still interested.

Applicants are encouraged to register and submit their applications through the e-Recruitment website at:
https://erecruitment.limpopo.gov.za

However, hand delivered applications are also acceptable. Applications must be submitted on the new Z83 Application for Employment Form, which can be obtained from all Government Departments or downloaded from the following websites:

  • www.gov.za
  • www.dpsa.gov.za
  • www.labour.gov.za

Applicants who use the e-recruitment system must also complete the Z83 form and upload it together with their Curriculum Vitae (CV) in addition to the online profile.

Closing Date: 13 March 2026

Important Notes

The new Z83 application form must be fully completed and signed by the applicant.

The following guidelines must be considered when completing the Z83 form:

All fields in Part A, Part C and Part D must be completed.

In Part B, all fields should be completed except the following:

South African applicants are not required to provide passport numbers.

If an applicant responds “No” to the question:
“Are you conducting business with the State or are you a Director of a Public or Private company conducting business with the State?”

It is acceptable for the applicant to indicate “Not Applicable” or leave blank the question:
“In the event that you are employed in the Public Service, will you immediately relinquish such business interest?”

Applicants may leave blank the following question if they are not in possession of such information:

“If your profession or occupation requires official registration, provide date and particulars of registration.”

Because there is limited space provided in Part E, Part F and Part G, applicants may indicate “Refer to Curriculum Vitae (CV)” or “See Attached”, provided that the CV is attached and contains the relevant information.

If the information is not provided in the CV, the application may be disqualified.

It should be noted that the CV forms an extension of the Z83 application, and applicants are responsible for ensuring that the information provided is accurate and complete.

The questions relating to conditions that prevent re-appointment under Part F must be answered.

Applicants with foreign qualifications are responsible for ensuring that their qualifications are evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and must provide proof of such evaluation.

Applicants are not required to submit certified copies of the following documents when applying:

  • Educational qualifications
  • Academic records
  • Identity document
  • Current registration with the relevant statutory body
  • Valid driver’s license (where required)

Applicants must submit only the following:

  • A fully completed and signed Z83 application form
  • A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Shortlisting and Interviews

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview.

At the interview stage, candidates will be required to bring certified copies of the following documents:

  • Educational qualifications
  • Academic records
  • Current registration with the relevant statutory body
  • Identity document
  • Valid motor vehicle driver’s license (where required)

All shortlisted candidates will also be required to undertake two pre-entry assessments:

  1. A practical exercise assessment
  2. An Integrity (Ethical Conduct) assessment

These assessments are conducted in accordance with the Directive on Human Resource Management and Development for Public Service Professionalisation, effective from 01 April 2024.

The successful candidate will also be subjected to security clearance (vetting) in accordance with the same directive.

Applicants are encouraged to comply with the following guidelines:

  • Practice Note on the Z83 Application for Employment – DPSA Circular 19 of 2022
  • Clarification regarding completion of the Z83 Application – DPSA Circular 3 of 2025

The Department reserves the right not to make any appointment to the advertised posts.

The final employment decision will also be informed by the Employment Equity Plan of the Department.

The closing date for applications is 13 March 2026.

Due to the large number of applications expected, correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates.

If applicants do not receive feedback within ninety (90) days after the closing date, they should consider their application unsuccessful.

Faxed applications will not be accepted.

Recognition of experience on appointment will be considered for Social Service Professions in line with Occupational Specific Dispensation prescripts.

The contents of this circular will also be published on the following websites:

  • www.dsd.limpopo.gov.za
  • www.limpopo.gov.za
  • www.dpsa.gov.za

Information will also be shared on Provincial Department websites and social media platforms.

Please note that due to austerity measures, the department will not cover any costs related to interviews, including:

  • Transport
  • Accommodation
  • Meals

The Limpopo Department of Social Development remains an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Designated groups, women, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

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