ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (NUTRITION)

Are you an experienced and passionate Dietitian looking for a leadership role? The Department of Health in Johannesburg is seeking a dynamic Assistant Director to oversee its Health Programmes (Nutrition) directorate. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute significantly to public health in Gauteng by planning, implementing, and monitoring crucial nutrition initiatives.

About the Role

As the Assistant Director for Nutrition, you will play a pivotal role in coordinating, planning, and organizing priorities within the Integrated Nutrition Program (INP). You will manage resources, develop strategies, and lead efforts to improve nutritional outcomes for communities in the Johannesburg Health District. This position requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to public service.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate the Integrated Nutrition Program (INP) services.
• Plan and manage the sectional budget and resources (personnel, equipment, supplies).
• Contribute to improved child survival and maternal health outcomes.
• Implement food and nutrition security interventions to combat hunger and malnutrition.
• Promote the South African Food-Based Dietary Guidelines (SAFBDG).
• Plan and conduct training programs for healthcare workers.
• Monitor and evaluate nutrition services at facility and community levels.
• Oversee Vitamin A, Zinc, Iron, and Folic acid supplementation.
• Participate in school health initiatives (anthropometric assessment, education, referrals).
• Provide support and supervision to staff implementing health and nutrition services.
• Develop, review, and approve Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), policies, and protocols.
• Evaluate Food service systems in Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) for compliance.
• Monitor monthly nutrition statistics and compile reports.
• Assist in compiling and monitoring operational and departmental plans.

Requirements

To be considered for this vital role, you should meet the following criteria:

• An appropriate qualification (four-year bachelor’s degree in Dietetics) allowing registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Dietitian. A Master’s in Dietetics will be an advantage.
• Currently registered with the HPCSA.
• A minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience after HPCSA registration as a Dietitian, with at least three (3) years at a supervisory level.
• Knowledge of: Human rights framework, health systems and structures in South Africa, relevant health acts, regulations, policies, strategies, guidelines, and protocols impacting dietetics, the science of dietetics, social and commercial determinants of health, research methodologies, evidence-based dietetics, and principles of monitoring and evaluation.
• Skills in: Communication (verbal and written), analytical thinking, facilitation, teamwork and teambuilding, flexibility and adaptability, networking and collaboration, negotiation, advocacy, problem-solving, initiative and creativity, time management, and computer proficiency (MS Office package).

Salary

R638 856 per annum (plus benefits).

How to Apply

Applications for this position (Reference Number: REFS/023904) must be submitted strictly online via the official E-Recruitment portal:

https://jobs.gauteng.gov.za

Please note the following important instructions:

• No hand-delivered, faxed, or emailed applications will be accepted.
• For assistance with online applications, email [email protected].
• Your application must include a fully completed and signed new Z83 application form (available at www.dpsa.gov.za/documents) and a recently updated comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• You must also attach your HPCSA Registration Certificate and proof of current registration (Annual Practicing Certificate/Card). Applications without these documents will be disqualified.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by HR to submit certified copies of educational qualifications and other relevant documents (not older than 6 months) on or before the day of the interview.
• Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and accompanied by the SAQA evaluation certificate.
• If you do not receive a response within 3 months of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
• Suitable candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks (criminal record, citizenship, credit record, qualification, and employment verification). Skills/knowledge tests may also be conducted.
• The Department encourages applications from women and people with disabilities.

Enquiries

For job-related queries, you may contact Ms. Mmakobo Gaegake at 082 926 0232.