About Company
The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS) is a leading humanitarian organization dedicated to alleviating human suffering and promoting human dignity across Zimbabwe. As an auxiliary to public authorities in the humanitarian field, ZRCS delivers essential services in areas such as health and care, disaster management, community resilience, and social inclusion. With a strong network of volunteers and staff, we work tirelessly at the grassroots level to empower communities, build capacities, and respond to various emergencies and long-term development needs. Our mission is to inspire, encourage, and initiate at all times all forms of humanitarian activities with a view to preventing and alleviating human suffering, and thereby contributing to the maintenance and promotion of human dignity and peace.
Job Description
Are you a compassionate and dedicated Occupational Therapist seeking a fulfilling opportunity to make a tangible difference in a vibrant community? The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS) invites you to join our dynamic team in Nyanga, Manicaland Province, as a Full-Time Occupational Therapist. This role offers a unique chance to leverage your expertise in a resource-constrained yet incredibly resilient environment, providing essential rehabilitative care and empowering individuals to regain independence and enhance their quality of life.
At ZRCS, we believe in the power of rehabilitation to transform lives. As an Occupational Therapist, you will be at the forefront of this mission, working with a diverse caseload encompassing individuals recovering from injuries, living with chronic conditions, developmental delays, and age-related challenges. Your days will be varied and impactful, involving comprehensive assessments, the development and implementation of individualized treatment plans, and continuous evaluation of client progress. You will play a crucial role in helping clients achieve their highest possible level of function in daily activities, fostering self-sufficiency in areas such as self-care, productivity, and leisure.
This position demands a blend of clinical excellence, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity. You will work within a multidisciplinary team, collaborating closely with nurses, physiotherapists, community health workers, and family members to ensure holistic and integrated care. Your responsibilities will extend beyond direct patient care to include educating families and caregivers on therapeutic techniques, adaptive equipment usage, and home modifications to support sustained progress. Furthermore, you will be instrumental in community outreach initiatives, raising awareness about disability prevention, early intervention, and the importance of occupational therapy services.
Working in Nyanga, you will experience the rich cultural tapestry of Manicaland while contributing directly to the well-being of its residents. This role is ideal for an Occupational Therapist who thrives on problem-solving, is resourceful in utilizing available local materials, and is passionate about equitable access to healthcare. You will not only apply your clinical skills but also develop innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs and resources of the community. Join us and be a part of an organization dedicated to alleviating human suffering and promoting health and dignity across Zimbabwe.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive occupational therapy assessments for individuals across the lifespan, identifying functional limitations and strengths.
- Develop and implement individualized, client-centered treatment plans aimed at improving participation in daily living activities (ADLs, IADLs), work, and leisure.
- Provide therapeutic interventions, including activity analysis, adaptive techniques, therapeutic exercises, splinting, and sensory integration strategies.
- Educate clients, families, and caregivers on conditions, treatment goals, adaptive equipment, and home modification strategies.
- Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team (physiotherapists, nurses, social workers, community health workers) to ensure holistic client care.
- Monitor and evaluate client progress, adjusting treatment plans as necessary to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Maintain accurate and timely client records in accordance with professional and organizational standards.
- Participate in community outreach programs, health education, and disability prevention initiatives.
- Be resourceful in adapting interventions and recommending low-cost adaptive equipment using locally available materials.
- Adhere to all professional ethical guidelines and organizational policies and procedures.
Required Skills
- Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Therapy or equivalent professional qualification.
- Current registration with the Allied Health Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe (or eligible for immediate registration).
- Minimum of 2 years of post-qualification clinical experience, preferably in a community or rehabilitation setting.
- Demonstrated ability to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate occupational therapy interventions.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and adaptability to diverse client needs and resource limitations.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English; knowledge of Shona or Ndebele is a significant advantage.
- Compassionate, patient, and culturally sensitive approach to patient care.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel for home visits within the district.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in rural or under-resourced communities.
- Postgraduate certifications or specialized training in specific areas of occupational therapy (e.g., pediatrics, neurorehabilitation, assistive technology).
- Familiarity with community-based rehabilitation (CBR) principles.
- Experience in training or mentoring junior staff or community health workers.
Perks & Benefits
- Meaningful work with direct community impact.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- Supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Contribution to a nationally recognized humanitarian organization.
- Competitive salary and benefits package in line with NGO standards.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Health insurance coverage.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the link below. Please ensure your application includes a detailed CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are passionate about this role with the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society in Nyanga.