Linkage Officer at NACOSA

The duties and responsibilities of the Linkage Officer will include, but not limited to:

• Establish and manage systems for client referrals to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Organize and lead meetings with DREAMS partners and other relevant organizations.
• Implement case management strategies and follow up on clients to track progress and ensure proper care.
• Ensure that community members are aware of available services, and actively promote these services.
• Use the “Handshake” or “Warm Body” approach to ensure that clients are linked to care and services.
• Monitor and review registers and referral slips to ensure all clients are logged and their referrals are sent to the data team.
• Support the Team Leader with partner schedules and ensure that services are delivered efficiently.
• Track linkage targets, and submit monthly reports to ensure targets are met.
• Contribute to quality improvement processes by documenting successful linkage practices.
• Collaborate with data teams and partners to monitor client linkage and data analysis.
• Provide daily, weekly, and monthly reports on client data to the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team.
• Actively participate in bi-weekly and monthly review meetings.
• Plan and participate in demand creation events to raise awareness and close linkage gaps.
• Meet with key stakeholders to maintain and strengthen relationships

Requirements

Required qualifications, skills and experience

• Degree in Social Work or Nursing.
• 3-5 years in HIV, counseling, linkage services, and implementing the "Welcome Back" strategy.
• Strong understanding of HIV care policies, particularly the Universal Test and Treat (UTT) approach and linkage to care.
• Familiarity with WHO Lives training for GBV survivors.
• Proficiency in English and any other South African language (e.g., Afrikaans, Xhosa).
• Work experience in HIV programs and DREAMS program implementation.
• Understanding of South African public health policies.
• Solid experience in working with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven experience with client tracking and home visits.
• Previous work in NGOs or funded programs is advantageous.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel).
• Knowledge of UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets and related HIV strategies.
• Experience with M&E frameworks.
• A valid driver’s license is mandatory.