Career Opportunity: Community Development Worker Role in Porterville (West Coast)

The Western Cape Government’s Department of Local Government is offering an exciting opportunity for a Community Development Worker based in Porterville, situated on the scenic West Coast. This permanent role, with the reference number LG 01/2025, provides a chance to make a meaningful difference by helping communities access vital government services and ensuring their voices are heard at national, provincial, and local levels.

Job Overview

In this role, the selected individual will be responsible for liaising with communities, coordinating efforts, mobilizing resources, and ensuring effective communication between the people of Porterville and government structures. The goal is to bring government closer to the citizens of the Western Cape and enhance their ability to engage with services provided by different levels of government.

Key Responsibilities

As a Community Development Worker, your duties will include:

• Assisting communities in Porterville with navigating government services.
• Identifying community needs and communicating them to the appropriate authorities.
• Promoting networks and improving the activities of local community workers to enhance service delivery.
• Compiling reports and keeping track of progress on various community projects.
• Staying updated on government services and guiding communities through available processes and mechanisms.

Essential Requirements

To be eligible for this role, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Requirements: A Senior Certificate (Grade 12) or equivalent qualification.
• Experience: A minimum of 6 months of relevant experience in community development or a related field.

Desirable Skills & Qualifications:

• Community Development Learnership Certificate.
• A valid (Code B or higher) driving license.
• Individuals with disabilities who face challenges in driving but have access to transport are encouraged to apply.

Required Competencies

Candidates should have a good understanding of:

• Public service policies, legislation, guidelines, and best practices.
• The composition and functioning of communities in the Western Cape.
• The role of community participation in policy-making and service delivery.

Additionally, candidates should possess:

• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Excellent report writing and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office and good computer literacy.
• Ability to work independently and within a team, with a strong focus on deadlines.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: R 255,450 per annum (Salary Level 6).
• Additional Benefits: Service benefits for qualifying employees, including medical assistance, housing assistance, and pension fund contributions, are funded or co-funded according to relevant agreements.

Application Process

• Closing Date: All applications must be submitted by 03 March 2025.
• Location: Applicants must preferably reside in the Porterville municipal area.
• Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to submit documentation for verification purposes and will undergo criminal record vetting. They will also be required to attend interviews and potentially participate in competency assessments.

Applicants should be aware that reference checks will be conducted, including enquiries related to disciplinary records and reasons for leaving previous employment.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications before the closing date. If you face any technical difficulties with the online application, technical support is available from Monday to Friday between 08:00 and 16:00 at the helpline: 086 137 0214. For further queries about the position, please contact Mr. M Bell at (021) 483 3039.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to contribute to the growth and well-being of your community. Apply today and make a positive impact as a Community Development Worker with the Western Cape Government!