About the Programme
The Gauteng Department of Health (HAST Directorate) has announced a recruitment drive for 50 HIV Counseling and Testing Counselors (Lay Counselors) across Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, Tshwane, Sedibeng, and West Rand. Although this is a healthcare role, secure public-sector employment provides financial stability, enabling employees to manage personal finances, income protection, medical aid schemes, and long-term insurance policies effectively.
What Will You Learn (Eligibility)
Candidates who join this initiative will gain valuable hands-on experience in public healthcare service delivery. Eligibility criteria focus on baseline qualifications, communication skills, and data literacy:
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Application of standard HIV Testing Services (HTS) algorithms and the 5 Cs of counseling.
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Internal Quality Control (IQC) procedures and rapid HIV testing protocols.
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Patient navigation, HIV risk reduction strategies, and same-day ART initiation workflows.
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Integration of TB symptom screening, STI screening, and Differentiated Service Delivery (DSD) models.
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Electronic data entry and basic numerical data drawing for health records.
What Are the Key Details?
This contract offers entry-level employment within the South African Public Service. Below are the primary financial and administrative specifics:
| Detail | Specification |
| Employer | Department of Health (HAST Directorate) |
| Post Title | HIV Counseling and Testing Counselor (50 Posts) |
| Reference Number | refs/057385 |
| Job Level | Salary Level 2 |
| Annual Salary | R144,024.00 per annum (plus public service benefits) |
| Estimated Monthly Basic | ~R12,002.00 per month (before taxes and statutory deductions) |
| Duty Locations | Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, Tshwane, Sedibeng, West Rand |
| Enquiries | Ms Rebecca Lesimola (083 641 4222) |
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Minimum Requirements
Applicants must satisfy the following criteria to qualify for evaluation:
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Grade 12 / Senior Certificate (or recognized equivalent).
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A valid Rapid Testing Continuous Quality Improvement (RTCQI) certificate.
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Sound understanding of HIV testing modalities (including HIV Self-Testing and Index Testing), ART, TB management, and Batho-Pele principles.
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Proficiency in computer literacy (MS Office suite) with the ability to draw and manage routine data.
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Excellent counseling, interpersonal, and communication skills in local languages.
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Non-judgmental attitude towards affected individuals and key/vulnerable populations.
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Added Advantage: 1 year of experience in HIV counselling/testing and a Basic HIV/AIDS certificate.
Required Documents
To avoid immediate disqualification, candidates must submit:
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A fully completed and signed new Z83 application form (obtainable from any public service department or online at
www.dpsa.gov.za). -
A comprehensive, updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Note: Shortlisted applicants will receive formal communication from HR to provide certified copies of educational certificates and identity documents (not older than 6 months). Foreign qualifications must include an official SAQA evaluation certificate.
Closing Date
Complete and submit all online applications by 20 November 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.
Why Does It Matter
Securing an entry-level public sector post provides a predictable salary, medical aid options, and pension fund benefits. A stable income stream helps individuals build creditworthiness, manage debt ratios, invest in personal finance products, and secure term life insurance or funeral policies for their households. Furthermore, healthcare employment supports community health preservation across South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What basic salary can successful candidates expect?
The position pays R144,024.00 per annum (Salary Level 2) plus applicable public service benefits, which calculates to an estimated basic income of approximately R12,002.00 per month before tax and pension deductions.
2. Is a driver’s license required for this lay counselor role?
No, a driver’s license is not listed as a mandatory requirement for refs/057385. However, candidates must hold a Grade 12 certificate and an RTCQI certificate.
3. How do I submit my Z83 and CV for this vacancy?
Applications must be submitted electronically via the Gauteng E-Recruitment portal ([https://jobs.gauteng.gov.za](https://jobs.gauteng.gov.za)). We do not accept physical, faxed, or emailed applications.
How to Apply
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Go to the Gauteng Province E-Recruitment portal at
[https://jobs.gauteng.gov.za](https://jobs.gauteng.gov.za). -
Search for Reference Number refs/057385.
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Register an account or log into your existing profile.
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Complete the online profile and upload your signed new Z83 form and comprehensive CV.
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Submit the application before the closing date of 20 November 2026.
Final Thoughts
Consistent employment in the public sector creates opportunities for personal budget planning, wealth protection, and financial security. Qualified job seekers with an RTCQI certificate should ensure their Z83 forms are accurately signed and uploaded to the Gauteng E-Recruitment portal before the deadline.
