Social Auxiliary Worker

The Institute of Health Programs and Systems (IHPS) is a South African non-profit company (NPC) born out of the PEPFAR CDC Track 1 transition of the ICAP, Columbia University, Multi-country AIDS Program (MCAP) in South Africa in 2010. IHPS was established with a mission “to strengthen health and development systems through program implementation and partnerships” and, the vision is to ensure “optimal and sustainable health and development outcomes”. IHPS is a current Global Fund (GF) Subrecipient (SR) under the National Department of Health (NDoH), tasked to implement the Tuberculosis (TB) Program in the Johannesburg (JHB) Health District in Gauteng Province (GP) and Kenneth Kaunda District in the Northwest (NW) Province starting April 2022 ending March 2025. As such, IHPS seeks to recruit for the positions outlined below, to be based at Dr Kenneth Kaunda Health District.

IHPS has a zero-tolerance approach to sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (SEAH) of any person, child or adult, involved with its programs. The IHPS PSEAH policy outlines its commitment towards SEAH.

Full Time
  • Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract (contract end date 31 March 2025)
  • Start Date: December 2024
  • Remuneration: R24 012.94
  • Level of Effort: 100%
  • Closing Date: 11 November 2024
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Overall Responsibility

The role of the Social Auxiliary Worker (SAW) is to provide social support services (SSS) to TB patients in need within a subdistrict. The SSS package includes provision of care, support, protection, and development of people living with TB, their families and communities affected by TB through relevant programs. This position requires a good understanding of the Department of Social Development (DSD) legislative mandate, policies, and programmes, the Batho Pele principles and knowledge of the social services network at district and subdistrict.

Key Performance Areas: Technical:
  • Develop a subdistrict work plan for with clear roles and timeframes.
  • Assist and support the social workers to provide social work services that include care, support, protection and development of TB vulnerable individuals, groups, families, and communities.
  • Assist social workers to attend to any other matters that could result in, or stem from social instability of any form. 
  • Perform administrative support functions in help the social workers as appropriate for the SAW role.
  • Assess the TB clients’ needs, situations, strengths, and support networks to determine gaps and appropriate interventions. 
  • Ensure all client files and other records comply with applicable policies, regulations, and procedures.
  • Make recommendations on the best course of action for a client and/or family as applicable.
  • Monitor referrals to facilitate TB clients’ access to services or support and ensure positive referral outcomes.
  • Present progress reports in subdistrict meetings 
  • Report daily or weekly to the district level designated IHPS supervisor, or as per IHPS policies and procedures. 
Qualifications 
  • Grade 12 plus completion of the learnership to allow registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) as SAW. 
  • Current registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions as a SAW
  • Valid driver’s licence
Knowledge and Experience
  • At least 3 years’ experience working as a SAW in the Public Sector
  • Experience in administration and management would be an added advantage.
  • Excellent understanding of the Social Assistance Act, relevant policies, and guidelines
  • Sound knowledge of the Public Service Act and the Batho Pele Principles
  • A basic understanding of the human behaviour, relationship system and social systems. 
  • Basic knowledge of financial matters related to social auxiliary work.
  • Good analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Good communication skills (both interpersonal and written) 
  • Good IT skills and understanding of existing information systems used in Social Services
  • Flexibility and ability to adapt to changes.
  • Conflict resolution skills
  • Good coordination and planning skills
  • Information and Knowledge Management i.e., keep accurate records and compile quality and credible reports.

Employer’s Rights

This position description may not list all the duties of the job. If an offer is made, you will be presented with a detailed job description. Applicants will be evaluated based upon their demonstrated ability to perform the tasks listed above, their education and work experience. The employer reserves the right to revise this posting at any time.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should apply by e-mail only to HR@ihps-sa.org. Subject line should be the Position and District you are applying for, and a cover letter and resume or curriculum vitae (CV) should be attached. Submissions which do not follow the above instructions will not be considered.

Due to the extremely high volume of CVs expected, only those selected for interviews will be contacted. NO PHONE CALLS about these positions will be accepted.

Closing Date: 11 November 2024