Senior Community Support Specialist

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Pension plan

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Professional development

Hybrid work arrangements

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, a leading non-profit, seeks a Senior Community Support Specialist to develop and oversee essential support programs for vulnerable populations.

You will coordinate social services, mentor staff, build partnerships, and ensure program effectiveness with data-driven adjustments. A Bachelor's in Social Work or related field and 5+ years in community social work are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in community social work or similar.
• Experience in program development, implementation, and evaluation within the non-profit sector.
• Strong understanding of social welfare systems and relevant SA legislation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage community outreach strategies to identify individuals and families in need of support.
• Coordinate and deliver a range of social support services including counseling, resource navigation, and crisis intervention.
• Build and maintain relationships with local stakeholders, partners, and government agencies.
• Supervise and mentor junior support staff with guidance and development opportunities.
• Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness and make data-driven improvements.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Active listening

Team supervision

Data-driven

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree (Social Work, Psychology, Sociology)

Tools

Case management software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing community well-being, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Community Support Specialist to join their dynamic team in Cape Town, Western Cape. This pivotal role involves developing, implementing, and overseeing crucial support programs that directly impact vulnerable populations. You will be instrumental in fostering a supportive environment, connecting individuals with essential resources, and contributing to the overall social fabric of the community. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's lives while working in a collaborative and forward-thinking organization. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of social challenges and a passion for empowering individuals and communities to thrive. If you are a dedicated professional looking to advance your career in community development and social care, this role in the vibrant city of Cape Town presents an exciting prospect.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage community outreach strategies to identify individuals and families in need of support.
• Coordinate and deliver a range of social support services, including counseling, resource navigation, and crisis intervention.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local stakeholders, community partners, and government agencies.
• Supervise and mentor junior support staff, providing guidance and professional development opportunities.
• Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, making data-driven adjustments to improve outcomes.
• Organize and facilitate community workshops and educational sessions on relevant social issues.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and ethical guidelines in service delivery.
• Prepare comprehensive reports on program activities, client progress, and community needs for management and funding bodies.
• Act as a primary point of contact for complex cases requiring specialized intervention.
• Champion the organization's mission and values throughout all activities and interactions.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field is essential.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in community social work, case management, or a similar role.
• Demonstrated experience in program development, implementation, and evaluation within the non-profit sector.
• Strong understanding of social welfare systems, community resources, and relevant legislation in South Africa .
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex caseloads and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Experience in supervising and leading a team is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in relevant software, including case management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Western Cape region.
• Empathy, resilience, and a genuine commitment to social justice and community empowerment.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health insurance package.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• A supportive and inclusive work environment dedicated to making a positive social impact.
• Pension fund contribution.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential counseling and support.
• Potential for hybrid work arrangements to promote work-life balance.
• Access to ongoing training and workshops relevant to the social care sector.
• Regular performance reviews and career progression pathways within the organization.