Social Worker (Child Protection)

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Generous leave

Training programs

Supervision

Registration fees reimbursement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Social Worker to join our Child Protection Unit in Centurion, Gauteng. The role involves safeguarding children, assessing risks, and delivering support to families through fieldwork across the Gauteng region.

Applicants should have a BSW, SACSSP registration, at least four years of child-protection experience, and strong assessment, counseling, and court-reporting skills. A valid driver's license and vehicle are required.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW) from an accredited institution.
• Registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
• Minimum of 4 years of experience as a Social Worker, with a focus on child protection and family welfare.
• In-depth knowledge of child protection legislation, policies, and procedures in South Africa.
• Proven ability to conduct thorough risk assessments and develop effective intervention plans.
• Excellent counseling, interviewing, and report‑writing skills.
• Experience working with diverse populations and navigating challenging family situations.
• Strong understanding of child development and trauma‑informed care principles.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage a demanding caseload.
• Valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle for fieldwork.
• Proficiency in relevant software for case management and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of child safety and well‑being, identifying risks and protective factors.
• Develop and implement individualized care plans in collaboration with children, families, and relevant stakeholders.
• Provide counseling and therapeutic interventions to children and families experiencing difficulties.
• Investigate allegations of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation, ensuring timely and appropriate responses.
• Facilitate family group conferences and mediation sessions to resolve conflicts and strengthen family bonds.
• Provide court testimony and prepare detailed reports as required by the legal system.
• Collaborate effectively with schools, healthcare providers, police, and other community agencies to ensure coordinated support.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of children within the child protection system.
• Maintain accurate and confidential case records in compliance with organizational policies and legal requirements.
• Participate in team meetings, case consultations, and ongoing professional development activities.

Skills

Risk assessment

Counseling

Report writing

Case management

Interviewing

Empathy

Communication

Team collaboration

Trauma-informed care

Adaptability

Education

BSW degree

SACSSP registration

Tools

Case management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Social Worker to join their Child Protection Unit based in Centurion, Gauteng. This critical role involves safeguarding vulnerable children, assessing risks, and providing essential support services to families in need. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of child welfare legislation, excellent assessment skills, and the ability to navigate complex family dynamics with empathy and professionalism. You will work closely with families, schools, courts, and other agencies to ensure the safety and well‑being of children. This position requires a deep commitment to ethical practice and a passion for advocating for children’s rights. The role is based in our Centurion office and requires regular fieldwork within the Gauteng region. You will be part of a supportive team environment where professional development and collaboration are highly valued. Your expertise will be crucial in making a positive and lasting impact on the lives of children and families in the community. This is an opportunity to contribute to a vital service that protects and nurtures the most vulnerable members of society.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of child safety and well‑being, identifying risks and protective factors.
• Develop and implement individualized care plans in collaboration with children, families, and relevant stakeholders.
• Provide counseling and therapeutic interventions to children and families experiencing difficulties.
• Investigate allegations of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation, ensuring timely and appropriate responses.
• Facilitate family group conferences and mediation sessions to resolve conflicts and strengthen family bonds.
• Provide court testimony and prepare detailed reports as required by the legal system.
• Collaborate effectively with schools, healthcare providers, police, and other community agencies to ensure coordinated support.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of children within the child protection system.
• Maintain accurate and confidential case records in compliance with organizational policies and legal requirements.
• Participate in team meetings, case consultations, and ongoing professional development activities.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Work (BSW) from an accredited institution.
• Registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
• Minimum of 4 years of experience as a Social Worker, with a focus on child protection and family welfare.
• In-depth knowledge of child protection legislation, policies, and procedures in South Africa.
• Proven ability to conduct thorough risk assessments and develop effective intervention plans.
• Excellent counseling, interviewing, and report‑writing skills.
• Experience working with diverse populations and navigating challenging family situations.
• Strong understanding of child development and trauma‑informed care principles.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage a demanding caseload.
• Valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle for fieldwork.
• Proficiency in relevant software for case management and documentation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Contribution towards medical aid and pension fund.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave provisions.
• Opportunities for specialized training in areas such as trauma counseling and forensic social work.
• Supportive supervision and peer support networks.
• Reimbursement of professional registration fees.
• The opportunity to work in a challenging yet rewarding field, making a tangible difference in children's lives.
• Access to resources and tools necessary for effective fieldwork in Centurion and surrounding areas.