Senior Officer: Social Worker x1
Position Details
- Job Title: Senior Officer: Social Worker (Post Level 9)
- Job ID: 6528
- Institution: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Division: Student Affairs, Sport, Arts and Culture
- Department: Student Counselling and Development
- Campus: South Campus
- Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Working Hours: 30 hours per week
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Closing Date: 24 July 2026
- Start Date: As soon as possible
Job Description
The Senior Officer: Social Worker is responsible for planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating professional social work services that support student wellbeing. The role includes individual and group interventions, community engagement, financial support initiatives, psychoeducation, programme development, and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to promote a healthy and supportive learning environment.
Key Responsibilities
Social Work Services
- Implement, monitor, and evaluate social work programmes and activities.
- Provide professional social work services to students experiencing personal and social challenges.
- Conduct psychoeducation and preventative intervention programmes.
- Establish and facilitate student support groups.
- Maintain accurate client records and confidential case documentation.
- Develop monitoring and evaluation tools to assess service delivery.
Student Support and Wellbeing
- Coordinate services aimed at improving student wellbeing.
- Create a supportive learning environment for financially vulnerable students.
- Identify students who qualify for financial assistance programmes.
- Develop and implement initiatives that support student success and independence.
Programme Planning and Coordination
- Plan and coordinate social work activities aligned with:
- National Health Calendar
- Institutional Calendar
- Health and Wellness Centre plans
- Organise awareness campaigns and educational events.
- Research relevant student wellbeing topics and facilitate information sessions through Student Counselling and Development (SCD) Influencers.
Community Engagement
- Plan and coordinate community engagement projects.
- Promote student participation in outreach programmes.
- Build relationships with NGOs, government departments, and community organisations.
- Collaborate with institutional and provincial social work forums.
Administration and Reporting
- Compile reports on social work activities.
- Conduct general administrative duties in line with SACSSP requirements.
- Contribute to the Centre’s Annual Performance Plan.
- Ensure compliance with professional legislation and institutional policies.
Professional Development
- Participate in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities.
- Keep up to date with developments and best practices in Social Work.
- Participate in professional organisations and relevant committees.
Additional Responsibilities
- Support the Assistant Director: Social Work Services with service improvement initiatives.
- Represent the Centre on institutional committees and external forums.
- Travel to other UFS campuses when operationally required.
- Work overtime or after-hours when necessary.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Bachelor of Social Work (NQF Level 8).
- Active registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) as a Social Worker for at least two years.
- Experience providing psychoeducation to young adults.
- Sound knowledge of the professional scope of practice of a Social Worker according to SACSSP.
Recommended Qualifications and Experience
Preference will be given to candidates with:
- Master’s Degree (NQF Level 9) in Social Work.
- Valid driver’s licence or the ability to obtain one within one year.
- Excellent communication skills in English and at least one additional South African official language.
- Experience in:
- Professional casework, group work, and community work.
- Health, wellness, or tertiary education environments.
- Developing and facilitating workshops and group sessions.
- Higher Education student support services.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
- Networking with NGOs and community organisations.
Required Competencies
Results Orientation
- Ability to adapt to changing environments.
- Remains calm and effective under pressure.
Strategic Thinking
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
- Creative problem-solving and innovation.
Business Acumen
- Strong understanding of policies and procedures.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Commitment to compliance and professional standards.
Leadership
- Ability to lead initiatives and provide direction.
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
Relationship Building
- Empathy and sensitivity towards others.
- Excellent interpersonal, networking, and communication skills.
Employee Benefits
Eligible employees may receive:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Annual leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits
(Benefits are subject to applicable University conditions.)
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Copies of qualifications.
- SAQA evaluation (for foreign qualifications).
- South African ID or passport (for foreign nationals).
- Proof of active SACSSP registration.
- Confirmation of employment from current or most recent employer (external applicants only).
- Driver’s licence (if applicable).
Incomplete applications will not be considered.