Assistant Director- Environmental Health Services (Food Safety) Jobs

Job Vacancy: Assistant Director – Environmental Health Services (Food Safety)

Department: Gauteng Department of Health

Location: Gauteng

Job Type: Full-Time

Experience: 5 Years

About the Department

The Gauteng Department of Health is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible healthcare to transform the lives of our community. Our mission is to build an effective public healthcare system by employing skilled professionals and using the best equipment and systems to ensure our patients live healthy lives.

Job Overview

We are seeking a qualified professional to serve as an Assistant Director for Environmental Health Services, focusing specifically on Food Safety. This role involves coordinating food safety operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing environmental health programs across the Gauteng province.

Requirements

• A Diploma or Degree in Environmental Health (a postgraduate degree is an advantage).
• Current registration with the Health Professional Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as an Environmental Health Practitioner.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience post-community service, with at least 3 years of experience as a Chief Environmental Health Practitioner.
• A valid South African driver’s license.
• Willingness to travel and work irregular hours, including public holidays when necessary.

Key Competencies

• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, etc.).
• In-depth knowledge of foodborne illness response and food poisoning outbreak measures.
• Familiarity with the Public Service Act, Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), and National Health Act.
• Proven leadership, project management, and financial management skills.
• Ability to work independently under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Food Safety Oversight: Coordinate food safety operations in Gauteng, ensuring all provincial standards and policies are met.
• Inspections and Audits: Oversee inspections and audits of food preparation, packaging, and storage facilities conducted by municipalities.
• Outbreak Response: Investigate food safety concerns and lead responses to foodborne illness outbreaks.
• Policy and Planning: Contribute to the development of food safety policies, guidelines, and emergency response plans.
• Training: Provide professional development and training for Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) to ensure they are updated on best practices and regulations.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Lead food control forum meetings and collaborate with other agencies and departments.
• Environmental Management: Coordinate water quality monitoring, pest control services, and hazardous substance licensing.
• Reporting: Compile and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual reports for senior management.

How to Apply

If you meet the requirements and are interested in this position, please submit your application through the official Gauteng provincial government jobs portal. Ensure your CV is updated and all necessary certifications are included.