Field Instructor- University of the Free State x1

Field Instructor- University of the Free State x1

Field Instructor – Department of Social Work

• Employer: University of the Free State
• Department: Department of Social Work
• Campus: Bloemfontein Campus, Bloemfontein
• Job Type: Contract Appointment (10 Months)
• Closing Date: 14 June 2026

Job Overview

The Department of Social Work is recruiting experienced Social Workers to supervise and mentor fourth-year social work students during their field placements. The Field Instructor serves as a professional mentor and is responsible for supporting students’ practical, ethical, and professional development through educational, administrative, and supportive supervision.

Main Responsibilities

1. Student Supervision and Mentorship

• Provide guidance and mentorship to assigned fourth-year social work students.
• Serve as a professional role model by demonstrating ethical and professional conduct.
• Maintain compliance with the SACSSP Code of Ethics.
• Support students in developing practical social work skills and professional confidence.

2. Educational Supervision

• Teach and reinforce social work theories and practical intervention skills.
• Assist students with case conceptualisation and intervention planning.
• Monitor students’ learning progress and professional development.

3. Supportive Supervision

• Help students manage workplace stress, emotional challenges, and exposure to difficult cases.
• Encourage resilience and professional growth.
• Provide emotional support to reduce burnout and vicarious trauma.

4. Administrative Supervision

• Ensure students comply with organisational policies and procedures.
• Monitor adherence to professional and departmental requirements.
• Submit monthly progress reports to the Year Group Coordinator.

Assessment and Evaluation Duties

• Assess and grade student fieldwork submissions.
• Provide written feedback within five working days.
• Participate in oral examinations as a member of the examination panel.
• Evaluate students’ fieldwork competency and practical performance.
• Monitor students’ clinical development and progression.
• Report performance concerns to the Department of Social Work when necessary.

Supervision Schedule

Semester 1

• Supervision sessions at least once every three weeks.
• Focus on orientation and early case conceptualisation.

Semester 2

• Weekly supervision during the first four weeks.
• Thereafter, supervision every two weeks.
• Focus on more advanced interventions, including:
  • Group work
  • Community work projects

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must possess:

• Bachelor of Social Sciences qualification on NQF Level 8.
• Active registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions as a Social Worker (proof required).
• Minimum three (3) years’ experience as a Social Worker.
• Knowledge of social work supervision models such as:
  • Process Model
  • Developmental Perspective
• Availability during normal working hours.
• Written permission from their current employer or Head of Department to perform additional work.

Recommended Qualifications and Experience

Preference may be given to candidates with:

• Previous experience as a field placement supervisor.
• Strong commitment to the social development approach.
• Dedication to student development and mentorship.
• Knowledge of theories taught by the UFS Department of Social Work.
• Willingness to invest additional effort in supporting student growth.

Remuneration

Salary: R1,100 per month per student supervised (no additional benefits).

Contract Duration

• February to October (10 months).
• Renewable annually based on performance and departmental requirements.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

1. Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
2. Certified copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications.
3. SAQA evaluation (for foreign qualifications).
4. Copy of South African ID or passport.
5. Proof of current or previous employment.
6. Proof of SACSSP registration.
7. Permission letter from current employer/HOD to undertake additional work.

Ideal Candidate Profile

This opportunity is best suited for experienced Social Workers who:

• Enjoy mentoring and developing future professionals.
• Have strong supervision and assessment skills.
• Can provide constructive feedback and guidance.
• Are passionate about social work education and professional development.

Application Method

Applications must be submitted online via the official UFS careers portal:

University of the Free State Vacancies Portal

Important: Incomplete applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback within six weeks after the closing date, please regard your application as unsuccessful.