Communication Officer

About the role

The Department of Water and Sanitation is hiring a Communication Officer in Limpopo-Olifants Catchment Management Agency Division: Office of the CEO, based in Polokwane. This is a permanent post, paying R338,106 a year. How to apply: All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.dws.gov.za/ Reference number to quote: LOCMA 41 Closing date: 20 November 2026 Use the new Z83 form and attach a detailed CV. Note: The Limpopo-Olifants Catchment Management Agency is a Public Water Resource Management Agency, established in line with the provisions of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act no 36 of 1998) (NWA) and National Water Policy for South Africa. It is an entity of the National Department of Water and Sanitation. Employees appointed in the CMA have similar employment terms and conditions to those of employees appointed in terms of the Public Service Act, though not employed in terms of the Public Service Act.

Responsibilities

• The incumbent will be responsible for assisting with the implementation of coordinated events, communication campaigns and strategic plans aimed at fostering understanding, building awareness and creating a favourable perception of LOCMA among internal and external stakeholders.
• Coordinate LOCMA events, including developing and implementing communication plans in support of campaigns, analysing strategic objectives and aligning communication efforts accordingly, and recommending amendments to existing policies to improve communication effectiveness.
• Engage with key role players to ensure alignment and collaboration and create actionable plans for securing media coverage of events and initiatives.
• Ensure the timely and accurate dissemination of written and visual communication materials to stakeholders.
• Draft and send written invitations to stakeholders for LOCMA events.
• Act as a key participant in the Water Sector strategic plan, assist in crafting the strategic plan and budget management for the communication section, and foster and maintain positive stakeholder relations.
• Handle event logistics and venue management, including securing appropriate venues, informing employees and stakeholders about event locations and details, and publishing and distributing information related to events.
• Assist in compiling and maintaining guest lists, forward invitations to relevant stakeholders promptly, maintain an updated guest list database, and keep calendars current and aligned with planned activities.
• Compile internal communication and draft the internal newsletter, including writing and compiling articles, providing logistical support for the communication component, ensuring that publicity projects and events meet set objectives and expectations, liaising with stakeholders to coordinate contributions to the newsletter, and establishing strong stakeholder relations to support internal communications.

Requirements

• A relevant NQF level 6 (National Diploma) qualification in Communication, Media Studies, Public Relations or a related field as recognised by SAQA.
• 1 year’s relevant experience.
• The disclosure of a valid unexpired driver’s license.
• Disciplinary knowledge in communication and media studies, political science and policy, and public administration.
• Knowledge of design principles, techniques and tools.
• Knowledge of the writing process, reviewing and proofreading.
• Understanding of water sector legislation.
• Financial management and knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).
• Knowledge of techniques and procedures for the planning and execution of operations.
• Knowledge of programme and project management.
• Knowledge of relationship management.
• Problem solving and analysis, people and diversity management, communication, conflict management, creativity and awareness, professional development, and client orientation and customer focus skills.
• Cultural awareness.
• Accountability and ethical conduct.