Are you looking for a rewarding job opportunity in Durban that lets you make a real difference in your community? The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has announced Fieldworker vacancies within their School of Nursing and Public Health. These positions are part of an important research project focused on improving adolescent nutrition and reducing diet-related diseases.
If you live in Umlazi Township and want to contribute to public health while gaining valuable work experience, this could be your chance! Read on to find out everything you need to know about the roles, how to apply, and why these fieldworker jobs are perfect for you.
Fieldworker Job Overview
- Job Title: Fieldworkers (7 positions)
- Contract Duration: 3 Months (short-term)
- Location: Umlazi Township, Durban
- Campus: Howard College Campus, UKZN
- Reference Number: CRH/AND004(2025)
- Closing Date: 24 May 2025
What Are the Fieldworker Vacancies at UKZN?
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is inviting applications for seven (7) Fieldworker positions based at the Howard College Campus in Durban. The jobs are connected to the ARISE Network’s NUTRINT Project, which aims to promote healthier eating habits among adolescents and reduce the risks of diseases linked to poor diets.
Successful candidates will work primarily in the USINGA Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) site in Umlazi, focusing on wards 79 and 82. The work involves direct community engagement with young people aged 10 to 24 years.
Key Responsibilities of the Fieldworkers
Fieldworkers will play an essential role in collecting important health data from adolescents to support research aimed at improving nutrition and health outcomes. Your tasks will include:
- Recruiting and enrolling adolescents between 10 and 24 years old
- Following up with participants from the first wave of data collection
- Administering standardized surveys to gather accurate information
- Conducting haemoglobin testing using finger prick methods
- Measuring height and weight of participants
- Tracking and tracing adolescents for timely data collection
- Referring participants to health services when necessary
- Supporting the project coordinator and data manager with quality assurance targets
Minimum Requirements to Apply
To qualify for these fieldworker positions, you must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Education: Grade 12 (Matric)
- Experience: At least 1 year working with research data tools like REDCap or similar
- Experience in home or community-based research settings
- Willingness to work on weekends and late afternoons
- Basic computer skills, especially MS Office programs
- Residence in ward 79 or 82 in Umlazi Township
- Valid driver’s license
- Certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
Essential Qualifications and Experience
The ideal candidates will have the following additional qualifications and skills:
- A degree in Public Health, Psychology, Social Work, or related fields
- Experience working with adolescents in community settings
- Experience with home visits or follow-up research
- Skills in taking anthropometric measurements (weight, height) and haemoglobin testing
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Fluency in both isiZulu and English
- Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines
Why Should You Apply for These Fieldworker Jobs?
- Meaningful Work: Help improve the health and nutrition of young people in Umlazi, contributing to a healthier future generation.
- Short-Term Contract: Gain valuable research experience over three months that can boost your CV.
- Community Impact: Work directly within your community in wards 79 and 82.
- Professional Growth: Work with UKZN, one of South Africa’s leading universities, and gain experience with important health research projects.
- Develop Skills: Enhance your research, communication, and clinical skills such as haemoglobin testing and anthropometric measurements.
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How to Apply
If you meet the requirements and want to be part of this important research project, follow these steps:
- Download the application form from the UKZN website: www.ukzn.ac.za
- Complete the application form with all the required details.
- Email your completed form to Mahlaset@ukzn.ac.za.
- Use the Reference Number CRH/AND004(2025) in the email subject line.
- Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date: 24 May 2025.
For any enquiries, contact Tankiso Mahlase at Mahlaset@ukzn.ac.za.
Remember: Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
The Fieldworker vacancies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal offer a unique opportunity to gain work experience, contribute to vital health research, and make a difference in your community. If you are passionate about public health and enjoy working with young people, this role could be perfect for you.
