A Counsellor (Fixed term contract ending November 2020) vacancy is available at our Client, Wits Health Consortium’s Nelson Mandela Academic Clinical Research Unit (NeMACRU) in Mthatha – Eastern Cape.

Background

The Nelson Mandela Academic Clinical Research Unit (NeMACRU) is a research entity of the Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital established by the hospital in association with the Walter Sisulu University, Faculty of Health Sciences.  NeMACRU is located in one of the poorest districts (OR Tambo District Municipality) of the Eastern Cape Province. The existence of this site will not only promote excellent research output in the area but will support local health facilities with health education on vaccines and HIV Prevention. 

Main purpose of the job

• To provide counselling and support to participants on the clinical trial.

Location

• NeMACRU, Mthatha

Key performance areas

• Assist with the initial intake (induction) of participants.
• Lead one-on-one counselling sessions and support groups.
• Establishing a relationship of trust and respect with patients.
• Actively listen to patients and empathise with them.
• Provide pre and post-test counselling.
• Provide bereavement counselling.
• Provide HIV Aids information to patients that include but are not limited to adherence, ARVs, nutrition and hygiene.
• Carry out home visits as and when required.
• Make referrals as and when required.
• Review, evaluate and document patient progress.
• Record all patient information on files. 

Required minimum education and training

• Relevant Bachelors degree.
• Certification in basic HIV Aids, Counselling, and Adherence with a recognised institution.

Required minimum work experience

• Minimum 1-year HIV counselling experience.

Desirable additional education, work experience and personal abilities

• A thorough understanding of treatment, HIV care and pre & post HIV test counselling knowledge.
• Be respectful with sound work ethic.
• Sound communication and listening skills.
• Ability to speak and understand multiple languages. 
• Must be able to work with patients who are HIV positive and emotional due to the effects of the HIV disease.  Debriefing sessions will have to be attended.
• Confidentiality, tact and discretion must be maintained at all times.
• Travelling may be required for training and home visit purposes.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions.

TO APPLY

• Only if you do meet the minimum job requirements and experience as mentioned above, you may submit a detailed updated CV – Please Apply Online
• Please take note that the applicants who do not adhere to the above criteria will not be considered for the respective position.
• The closing date for all applications is 07 September 2020.
• Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates.
• Candidates who have not been contacted within two weeks of the closing date can consider their applications to be unsuccessful.
• In accordance with our Employment Equity goals and plan, preference will be given to suitable applicants from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto.

Please note that AJ PERSONNEL is only responsible for the advertising of the advertisement on behalf of their client Wits Health Consortium.

AJ Personnel does not have any salary or other information regarding the position