Qualified HIV Counsellor- University of the Free State x2
Job Details
Job Title: Qualified HIV Counsellor
Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
Job ID: 6623
Reference Number: 2329
Department: Student Affairs, Sport, Arts and Culture – Health and Wellness Centre
Post Level: 11
Occupational Level: Semi-Skilled
Number of Positions: 2
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
Employment Type: Not specified
Salary: R464,881.91 – R585,070.51 per annum (including benefits)
Closing Date: 5 November 2026
Assumption of Duty: As soon as possible
Job Description
The University of the Free State is seeking two qualified and experienced HIV Counsellors to provide professional HIV counselling, care and psychosocial support to students living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.
The successful candidates will be responsible for coordinating HIV/AIDS awareness and support programmes, promoting HIV prevention and treatment adherence, managing student referrals, maintaining confidential counselling records and providing administrative support to the Health and Wellness Centre.
Key Responsibilities
HIV Counselling and Care
Provide professional ongoing HIV post-test counselling while maintaining confidentiality and ethical standards.
Create a safe and supportive environment where students can discuss personal challenges.
Provide treatment adherence counselling and psychosocial support to students living with HIV.
Refer students to healthcare providers, psychologists, social workers and external support organisations.
Manage cases and follow up on referred students.
Facilitate early linkage to HIV care and monitor referrals.
Support students with HIV disclosure decisions through counselling and risk assessment.
Promote routine HIV testing and early diagnosis.
HIV/AIDS Support Group Programme Planning and Coordination
Plan and coordinate HIV/AIDS programmes, dialogues and workshops.
Coordinate wellness activities for HIV/AIDS support groups.
Organise workshops for treatment ambassadors.
Promote HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention and STI screening.
Support students experiencing HIV-related stigma, discrimination and disclosure challenges.
Assist vulnerable students in accessing appropriate support services.
Coordinate the HIV/AIDS WhatsApp support group, including possible after-hours responses.
Organise chatrooms, meetings and support group gatherings.
Financial Administration
Assist with annual operational plans and budgets for HIV/AIDS programmes.
Prepare budget estimates for campaigns, wellness activities and community outreach projects.
Coordinate procurement of educational and marketing materials.
Maintain accurate financial records.
Prepare expenditure reports for programme activities.
General Administration
Maintain confidential HIV counselling records in accordance with POPIA and professional ethical requirements.
Maintain client records and capture statistical information.
Compile monthly, quarterly and annual programme reports.
Respond to telephone calls, emails and WhatsApp messages.
Schedule appointments using electronic systems.
Perform general administrative and reporting duties.
Coordinate the procurement and distribution of food parcels and toiletries to vulnerable students.
Minimum Requirements
A postgraduate qualification in HIV and AIDS Counselling or Social and Behavioural Studies.
A qualification in HIV testing, or willingness to complete the required theoretical and practical training and pass the relevant assessments after appointment.
At least 2 years’ relevant working experience in HIV prevention, counselling and support.
Additional Recommendations
An Honours degree in Psychology (NQF Level 8).
A valid driver’s licence.
Experience working with young adults or within a higher education institution.
Experience in Primary Health Care or a Student Counselling environment within higher education.
Required Skills and Competencies
Ability to adapt to changing working environments.
Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
Strong planning and organisational skills.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and follow work plans.
Knowledge of workplace rules and regulations.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Empathy, sensitivity and understanding when dealing with students.
Ability to build relationships and maintain confidentiality.
Salary and Benefits
Annual Salary: R464,881.91 – R585,070.51, including benefits.
Pension scheme.
Medical aid scheme.
Group life insurance.
Housing allowance.
Leave and sick leave.
Service bonus.
Study benefits.