Senior Community Support Specialist (Remote)

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Community Support Specialist to join a growing virtual care team. This fully remote role focuses on developing tailored support plans, crisis intervention, and resource navigation to assist individuals and families across Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.

You will mentor junior staff, collaborate with social workers and case managers, and ensure high-quality, person-centered services while maintaining confidential records and compliance with data

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in community support, social work, or a similar role, with at least 2 years in a senior or lead capacity.
• Proven experience working with diverse and vulnerable populations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust virtually.
• Strong understanding of social support systems, community resources, and relevant legislation.
• Proficiency in using virtual communication platforms (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) and client management software.
• Demonstrated ability to handle crisis situations with empathy and professionalism.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage a caseload effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a remote team.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage individualized support plans for clients, addressing their unique social, emotional, and practical needs.
• Conduct regular virtual check-ins and assessments to monitor client progress and adjust support strategies as required.
• Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation support, connecting clients with appropriate emergency services when necessary.
• Facilitate referrals to external agencies and resources, such as healthcare providers, educational institutions, and employment services.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records in accordance with organizational policies and data protection regulations.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including social workers, therapists, and case managers, to ensure comprehensive client care.
• Offer guidance and support to clients in navigating complex systems, including government benefits and legal aid.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior community support staff, sharing best practices and fostering professional development.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of support program materials and training modules.
• Actively participate in team meetings and case conferences, providing insights and recommendations.

Skills

Communication skills

Crisis intervention

Remote collaboration

Mentoring leadership

Diversity awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or related field

Master's degree

Tools

Zoom

Microsoft Teams

Client management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Senior Community Support Specialist to join their expanding virtual care team. This fully remote position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on individuals and families within the community, providing crucial social support and resource navigation. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing tailored support plans, acting as a primary point of contact for clients, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, person-centered services. The ideal candidate thrives in a remote-first environment, possesses exceptional communication skills, and has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by diverse community populations. This role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to fostering positive outcomes. We are looking for a leader who can mentor junior staff and contribute to the continuous improvement of our client's support methodologies. Your expertise will be vital in enhancing the well‑being of those we serve across Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal , and beyond, all from the comfort of your home office.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage individualized support plans for clients, addressing their unique social, emotional, and practical needs.
• Conduct regular virtual check-ins and assessments to monitor client progress and adjust support strategies as required.
• Provide crisis intervention and de‑escalation support, connecting clients with appropriate emergency services when necessary.
• Facilitate referrals to external agencies and resources, such as healthcare providers, educational institutions, and employment services.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records in accordance with organizational policies and data protection regulations.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including social workers, therapists, and case managers, to ensure comprehensive client care.
• Offer guidance and support to clients in navigating complex systems, including government benefits and legal aid.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior community support staff, sharing best practices and fostering professional development.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of support program materials and training modules.
• Actively participate in team meetings and case conferences, providing insights and recommendations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field is required.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in community support, social work, or a similar role, with at least 2 years in a senior or lead capacity.
• Proven experience working with diverse and vulnerable populations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust virtually.
• Strong understanding of social support systems, community resources, and relevant legislation.
• Proficiency in using virtual communication platforms (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) and client management software.
• Demonstrated ability to handle crisis situations with empathy and professionalism.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage a caseload effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a remote team.
• A dedicated home office setup with reliable high‑speed internet access is mandatory.

Benefits

Our client values its employees and offers a competitive compensation package, including a robust benefits plan designed to support your health and well‑being. As a fully remote position, you will enjoy unparalleled flexibility and work‑life balance. Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning are a core part of our client's culture, with access to ongoing training and workshops. You will be part of a dynamic and supportive virtual team, contributing to meaningful work that directly impacts lives. We provide all necessary technological equipment to ensure you can perform your duties effectively from your remote workspace. This role offers the chance to grow your career within a reputable organization committed to social impact and client success.