Child and Youth Care Worker: OSD Grade 1 Vacancies (X3 Posts)

Child and Youth Care Worker: OSD Grade 1 Vacancies (X3 Posts) at Mpumalanga Department of Social Development – Permanent Care and Support Roles 2026

Are you a compassionate, patient, and dedicated professional with a passion for working with children and youth in need of care and protection? The Mpumalanga Department of Social Development is recruiting 3 Child and Youth Care Workers: OSD Grade 1 (various reference numbers) to join their teams at George Hofmeyer Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC), Nkangala In-Patient Treatment Centre, and Hendrina Secure Care Centre.

These are permanent government positions at a competitive salary that offer excellent job security, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to provide direct care, support, and developmental guidance to vulnerable children and young people. If you hold an NQF Level 4 qualification in Child and Youth Care Work (or Grade 12 with relevant experience), and you are registered with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP), this role allows you to create safe, nurturing environments where children can heal, grow, and build brighter futures.

Reference Numbers and Locations:

• George Hofmeyer CYCC – Ref No: DSD/JUNE/GHM/CYC/26/42 (X1 Post)
• Nkangala In-Patient Treatment Centre – Ref No: DSD/JUNE/NKA/CYC/26/43 (X1 Post)
• Hendrina Secure Care Centre – Ref No: DSD/JUNE/HSC/CYC/26/44 (X1 Post)

Salary: R191 694 per annum (plus service benefits)

Department: Social Development

Closing Date: Applications are open – submit as soon as possible

About the Mpumalanga Department of Social Development

The Mpumalanga Department of Social Development is a leading provincial department dedicated to protecting and empowering vulnerable children, youth, and families. It operates Child and Youth Care Centres (CYCCs), in-patient treatment facilities, and secure care centres that provide residential care, rehabilitation, and developmental support to children and young people who have experienced abuse, neglect, abandonment, or other challenges.

Child and Youth Care Workers are the backbone of these services. They create safe, structured, and caring environments where children and youth can heal, grow, and develop the skills they need for a better future. This role is deeply rewarding for individuals who are patient, empathetic, and committed to the best interests of the child.

The positions are located at key facilities in the province, offering the chance to work in supportive teams while contributing to the department’s mission of building caring and resilient communities in Mpumalanga.

Job Purpose

The Child and Youth Care Worker: OSD Grade 1 will provide direct care and support to children and youth in residential care facilities. You will assist with daily living activities, implement developmental programmes, ensure safety and well-being, and contribute to the overall therapeutic and developmental goals of the centre. This role requires maturity, patience, sensitivity, and a genuine commitment to the best interests of the child.

Detailed Key Responsibilities

As a Child and Youth Care Worker, your core duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Receive children and youth beneficiaries into the care facility after admission, ensuring a warm and supportive welcome.
• Ensure that all children and youth receive necessary medical services and follow-up care.
• Assist with the implementation of planned activities and developmental therapeutic programmes.
• Engage in basic life space work to promote the development, care, and emotional well-being of children and youth.
• Provide supervision, guidance, and support during daily routines, meals, education, recreation, and bedtime.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to each child’s progress, behaviour, and needs.
• Promote a safe, structured, and nurturing environment that supports healing and growth.
• Work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team (social workers, psychologists, educators, etc.) to achieve individual care plans.
• Participate in shift handovers, team meetings, and professional development activities.
• Uphold the rights of children and adhere to all relevant legislation, including the Children’s Act.
• Report any concerns regarding child safety, abuse, or neglect immediately to the supervisor.
• Assist with general administration and housekeeping tasks to maintain the facility’s standards.

The role involves shift work, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, as care is provided 24/7.

Minimum Requirements

• An appropriate recognised NQF Level 4 qualification in Child and Youth Care Work, or
• Grade 12 with relevant experience in a Child and Youth Care Work environment.
• Current registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) as a Child and Youth Care Worker – essential.
• Valid driver’s licence – advantageous.
• Ability to mentor children and youth with maturity, patience, and sensitivity.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Physically and emotionally fit for the demands of residential care work.

No previous experience is strictly required for Grade 1, making this accessible for newly qualified Child and Youth Care Workers.

Competencies and Skills

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Empathy, patience, and a genuine interest in the well-being of children and youth.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Resilience and the capacity to handle emotionally challenging situations.
• Commitment to child rights, confidentiality, and professional ethics.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for diversity in Mpumalanga’s communities.
• Willingness to learn and grow in the field of child and youth care.

What the Department Offers

• Permanent employment with the Mpumalanga Provincial Government.
• Attractive salary of R191 694 per annum plus service benefits.
• Comprehensive public service benefits including medical aid, pension, housing allowance, and generous leave.
• Structured supervision, continuous professional development, and opportunities for specialisation in child and youth care.
• A supportive work environment with access to resources and mentorship from experienced professionals.
• The profound satisfaction of helping vulnerable children and youth rebuild their lives and reach their full potential.

The department is committed to Employment Equity and transformation. Applications from all qualifying candidates are welcome.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the official Mpumalanga Department of Social Development recruitment channels. Please clearly indicate the Reference Number for your preferred location.

Important Application Notes:

• Submit a completed new Z83 form and a detailed CV.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be requested to submit certified copies of qualifications and ID.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA.
• Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

Enquiries:

• Ms. Pretty Sibinde – Tel: (013) 766 3320
• Ms. Thembi Manana – Tel: (013) 766 3232

Why Work as a Child and Youth Care Worker with the Mpumalanga Department of Social Development?

Child and Youth Care Work is one of the most rewarding fields in social development. In Mpumalanga, where many children face challenges such as abuse, neglect, poverty, and family breakdown, your role will directly contribute to providing safe, nurturing care and helping young people heal and thrive. You will work in dedicated care centres that offer structured programmes, professional support, and a chance for children to rebuild their lives.

These positions are based at key facilities in the province, offering the opportunity to work in a supportive team while making a tangible difference. The department provides structured supervision, ongoing training, and clear pathways for progression to senior child and youth care roles. Many practitioners in the department have advanced through dedication and continuous professional development.

This recruitment drive is part of the department’s commitment to strengthening residential care services and responding to the needs of vulnerable children and youth. It is an ideal opportunity for qualified Child and Youth Care Workers who want a stable, meaningful career in the public sector with the chance to touch the lives of children every day.

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Apply now and become part of a team that is transforming the lives of children and youth in Mpumalanga. This is your opportunity to serve with compassion and purpose as a Child and Youth Care Worker with the Department of Social Development.

The Department is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and transformation.