Community Liaison Officer

About the role

AIDC, a government-owned public entity supporting the South African automotive industry, is recruiting a Community Liaison Officer in its Business Development Department. The post is based at the Automotive Supplier Park offices in Rosslyn and Satellite Sites, reports to the Senior Manager: Business Development, and is advertised on a three-year fixed-term contract with a three-month probation period.

Key responsibilities

• Build good relationships with the community, municipality, business forums and ward councillors, acting as a bridge between project implementers and affected communities and ensuring accurate, timely information flows both ways.
• Explain project scope, timelines and limitations to local communities, manage expectations around jobs, procurement and social benefits, and promote local employment, skills development and subcontracting opportunities.
• Identify potential conflicts early, mediate disputes and help prevent project delays caused by unrest or protests; organise briefings, contingency planning seminars and town meetings.
• Design measurable evaluation criteria, run periodic assessments and draw on formal and informal feedback to shape a long-term plan for community relations.
• Submit monthly, quarterly and annual management and monitoring and evaluation reports, including stakeholder engagement and grievance handling reports, and file evidence for audit.

Required profile

• Matric (Grade 12) and a National Diploma or degree in Public Relations, Community Development, Social Sciences, Communications, Sociology or Public Administration.
• At least 5 years of relevant experience in community liaison, stakeholder engagement or public participation.
• Proven track record working with municipalities, traditional authorities, ward councillors and community-based organisations.
• Advantageous: certification in Project Management, Conflict Resolution or CSR, and experience in a similar role.

Required skills

• Computer literacy with Microsoft Office products.
• Good communication and report writing skills.

Remuneration is TCOE R 474 467.56 per annum (Job Grade C4). Applications with a CV and certified copies of qualifications and ID must be submitted through the online application link before 06 November 2026; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.