Qualified HIV Counsellor (post level 11)(2 positions) (Job ID: 6623)

KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered. The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED! To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
• A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
• Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).

Key Responsibilities

HIV Counselling and Care

• Provide professional HIV ongoing post-test counselling while maintaining strict confidentiality and ethical practice.
• Create a safe space where students can openly discuss personal challenges
• Provide adherence counselling and ongoing psychosocial support to students living with HIV.
• Refer students to appropriate healthcare providers, psychologists, social workers and external support organisations.
• Maintain effective case management and follow-up of referred students.
• Facilitate early linkage to HIV care and monitor referrals to the Health and Wellness Centre.
• Support students with HIV disclosure decisions through professional counselling and risk assessment.
• Promote routine HIV testing and early diagnosis among the student population.

HIV/AIDS Support Group Programme Planning and Coordination

• Plan and coordinate HIV/AIDS programmes, dialogues and workshops in collaboration with healthcare professionals.
• Coordinate wellness activities for HIV/AIDS support group throughout the year.
• Coordinate workshops for Treatment ambassadors.
• Support initiatives promoting awareness and prevention of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Promote treatment adherence, early screening, and preventive healthcare services.
• Support students infected and affected by HIV-related stigma, discrimination, and challenges to disclose.
• Assist vulnerable students in accessing support services where appropriate.
• Coordinathe WhatsApp HIV/AIDS Support Group for people living with and/or affected by HIV/AIDS. This might include responding after normal working hours.
• Coordinate chatrooms, meetings and other gatherings as necessary

Financial Administration

• Contribute to annual operational plans and budgets for HIV/AIDS support group, prevention, awareness, and health promotion programmes.
• Prepare budget estimates and funding for HIV/AIDS campaigns, initiatives, wellness activities, and community outreach projects.
• Coordinate the procurement of goods and services required for HIV/AIDS marketing materials, activities, and educational materials. Maintain accurate financial records and prepare expenditure reports for HIV/AIDS programme activities.

Administration

• Maintain confidential HIV counselling records in accordance with POPIA and professional bodies' ethical requirements.
• Maintain client records and data.
• Capture statistical data in a shared folder
• Compile monthly, quarterly, and annual HIV programme reports.
• Contribute to programme evaluation and continuous quality improvement.
• Respond to incoming calls, e-mails, and WhatsApp messages.
• Schedule appointments on electronic systems for clients and patients.
• Conduct general administration and reporting.
• Coordinate the procurement and distribution of food parcels and toiletries to vulnerable students and perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

Inherent requirements:

• A postgraduate qualification in HIV and AIDS Counselling or social and behavioural studies (attach a copy).
• A qualification in HIV testing (attach a copy) or a willingness to complete the required theoretical and practical training and pass the relevant assessments as soon as possible after appointment.
• Minimum of two (2) years’ relevant working experience in HIV prevention, counselling and support.

Recommendations:

• Honours degree on NQF Level 8 in Psychology.
• A valid driver’s license (attach a copy).
• Experience working with young adults or in a Higher Education Institution
• Experience in a Primary Health Care or Student Counselling Setting in Higher Education.