Social Worker (GR1-4) X7 Positions Available

Department of Justice and Constitutional Development

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development invites applications from qualified Social Workers for positions within the Office of the Family Advocate in the Western Cape. These roles provide an opportunity to contribute to resolving family law disputes and safeguarding the best interests of children.

POSITION: SOCIAL WORKER (GR1-4) (X7 POSTS)

SALARY: R325,200 – R725,754 per annum (Salary determined by OSD framework). The successful candidate must sign a performance agreement.

CENTRE:

  • Office of the Family Advocate, Cape Town (Ref No: 42/2025/FA/WC) (X4 Posts)
  • Office of the Family Advocate, Worcester (Ref No: 44/2025/FA/WC) (X2 Posts)
  • Office of the Family Advocate, Mitchells Plain (Ref No: 43/2025/FA/WC) (X1 Post)

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification.
  • Experience: Relevant experience as a Social Worker post-registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
  • Registration: Registration with SACSSP is mandatory. Shortlisted candidates must submit proof of registration and service certificates verifying appropriate experience after registration.

Knowledge and Experience:

  • Demonstrated experience in mediation and providing expert evidence in court.
  • Knowledge of Family Law, including the Mediation in Certain Divorce Matters Act, Children’s Act, Maintenance Act, and Domestic Violence Act (including the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction).

Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel extensively within the province.

Skills and Competencies:

  • Computer literacy.
  • Effective communication skills (written and verbal).
  • Proficiency in mediation, interviewing, conflict resolution, evaluation, and report writing.
  • Competence in diversity and conflict management.
  • Strong attention to detail.

Note: Individuals listed on Part B of the Child Protection Register, as per Section 123(5) of the Children’s Act, 2005, are ineligible to apply.

DUTIES: Social Workers in the Office of the Family Advocate will undertake the following responsibilities:

  • Conduct mediation and inquiries as part of a multidisciplinary team in matters involving custody, access, guardianship, child abduction, and related family law disputes.
  • Evaluate information and prepare forensic court reports with recommendations prioritizing the best interests of children.
  • Serve as an expert witness for the Family Advocate in court proceedings.
  • Engage in networking and awareness campaigns to promote the role and functions of the Office of the Family Advocate.
  • Conduct inquiries, interview parties, and source references in family law disputes, including in townships and rural areas.

ENQUIRIES: Contact Ms. T Buttress at Tel No: (021) 426 1216 for further details.

APPLICATIONS:
Submit applications via one of the following methods:

  • Online: https://forms.office.com/r/X2XaVPasWu
  • Postal: Provincial Head, Private Bag X9171, Cape Town, 8000
  • Physical Delivery: 8 Riebeeck Street, 5th Floor, Norton Rose House, Cape Town
  • For Attention: Ms. P Paraffin

CLOSING DATE: 08 September 2025

NOTE:

  • Applications must include a completed and signed Form Z83 (available from any Public Service Department or www.gov.za) and a detailed Curriculum Vitae.
  • Certified copies of Identity Document, Senior Certificate, highest required qualification, and driver’s license (if applicable) are required only from shortlisted candidates, to be submitted on or before the interview date.
  • A separate application is required for each centre, clearly indicating the relevant reference number (e.g., 42/2025/FA/WC for Cape Town).
  • Non-compliant applications will be disqualified.
  • Foreign qualifications must include a SAQA evaluation report.
  • Shortlisted candidates will undergo technical and/or competency assessments and must provide a pre-entry certificate from the National School of Government (NSG) for SMS positions.
  • Candidates must complete a financial disclosure form and undergo security clearance. Foreigners or dual citizenship holders must provide a Police Clearance certificate from their country of origin if shortlisted.
  • The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is an equal opportunity employer, adhering to Section 195(1)(i) of the Constitution of South Africa, 1996, and the Employment Equity Act, 1998. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for people with disabilities, including where a driver’s license is required.
  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If no response is received within three months of the advertisement, the application should be considered unsuccessful.
  • The department reserves the right not to fill these positions.
  • Applications from women and people with disabilities are encouraged, with preference given to Employment Equity targets.

About the Role:
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is dedicated to promoting justice, upholding constitutional values, and ensuring equitable access to services. Social Workers in the Office of the Family Advocate will contribute to resolving complex family law disputes, advocating for the best interests of children, and raising awareness of essential legal services in communities across the Western Cape.

Application Process:
Submit complete applications by 08 September 2025 using the online link (https://forms.office.com/r/X2XaVPasWu) or the specified postal/physical address, clearly indicating the centre and reference number.

This is an opportunity to contribute to justice and support families in need through impactful work in the Office of the Family Advocate.

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