Senior Community Support Officer

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid contributions

Provident fund

Continuous professional development

Paid time off

Supportive work environment

Career advancement prospects

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct seeks a Senior Community Support Officer in Johannesburg to lead and develop community support programs. You will oversee operations, provide direct client support, and train staff and volunteers to strengthen engagement and services.

The role emphasizes collaboration with partners, program budgeting, staff mentorship, and ensuring quality care with a focus on social inclusion and justice.

Qualifications

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Community Development, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years experience in community support or social care.
• At least 2 years in supervisory/leadership role.
• Experience in program development, implementation, evaluation.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of social welfare systems in Johannesburg.
• Proficiency in data management systems and MS Office.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within Gauteng.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Empathy, resilience, and commitment to social justice.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of community support programs, ensuring alignment with goals and best practices.
• Provide direct support addressing social, emotional, and practical needs of community members.
• Develop and deliver training sessions for staff and volunteers on engagement strategies and support techniques.
• Conduct assessments to identify needs and design tailored support plans.
• Collaborate with external agencies, stakeholders, and local authorities to build partnerships.
• Manage program budgets and resources to ensure financial accountability and sustainability.
• Mentor and supervise junior staff to foster professional development.
• Maintain confidential records of client interactions and progress.
• Organize and facilitate community events and workshops to promote social inclusion.
• Act as primary contact for complex cases and escalate when necessary.

Skills

Leadership

Staff supervision

Program development

Community engagement

Communication

Conflict resolution

Education

Tertiary qualification in Social Work/ psychology/ community development

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Community Support Officer to join their vital team in Johannesburg, Gauteng. This role is crucial in fostering a supportive and engaging environment for individuals within the community. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing programs that enhance the well-being and social integration of service users. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference and shape community initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of community needs and social care principles. This is an exciting chance to advance your career in a dynamic and impactful sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of community support programs, ensuring they align with organizational goals and best practices.
• Provide direct support and guidance to community members, addressing their social, emotional, and practical needs.
• Develop and deliver training sessions for staff and volunteers on effective community engagement strategies and support techniques.
• Conduct assessments to identify individual and community needs, and subsequently design and implement tailored support plans.
• Collaborate with external agencies, stakeholders, and local authorities to build strong partnerships and enhance service delivery.
• Manage program budgets and resources effectively, ensuring financial accountability and sustainability.
• Mentor and supervise junior support staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of client interactions and progress.
• Organize and facilitate community events and workshops to promote social inclusion and resource awareness.
• Act as a primary point of contact for complex cases and elevate issues as necessary.

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Community Development, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a community support or social care role, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership position.
• Proven experience in program development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong understanding of social welfare systems, legislation, and community resources within Johannesburg.
• Proficiency in data management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a Hybrid work environment.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Gauteng region.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Empathy, resilience, and a strong commitment to social justice.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package and a comprehensive benefits program designed to support your well-being and professional growth.
• medical aid contributions.
• a generous provident fund.
• opportunities for continuous professional development.
• paid time off.
• a supportive work environment.
• You will be part of a passionate team dedicated to making a positive impact in the Johannesburg community.
• This role provides excellent career advancement prospects within a leading organization.