1. Role Overview
A Social Welfare Officer, sometimes titled Medical Social Officer or Deputy District Officer (SW), works under the Social Welfare & Bait-ul-Maal Department. The role involves implementing welfare programs, managing Dar-ul-Aman services, coordinating with NGOs, conducting community assessments, and delivering support to marginalized groups across Punjab.
2. Eligibility & Qualifications
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Master’s degree (minimum 2nd Division) in Social Work, Sociology, Rural Sociology, Women Studies, Gender Studies, or Anthropology from an HEC-recognized university. |
| Age Limit | Males: 21–30 years (plus 5 years general relaxation = 35); Females: 21–30 years (plus 8 years = 38). Transgender age is determined by CNIC per regulations. |
| Domicile | Punjab province required; postings can be anywhere in Punjab. |
| Experience | Not mandatory; fresh graduates are eligible. |
| Skills | Leadership, administrative acumen, communication, project management, and writing ability are essential. |
3. Salary & Career Progression
- Salary: Estimated monthly compensation is around PKR 55,000 for BPS-17, including allowances.
- Promotion Pathway:
- Step 1: After 5 years at BPS-17, promotion to Deputy Director / District Officer (BPS-18), contingent on mandatory training.
- Step 2: After 12 years (including at least 4 in BPS-18), promotion to Director (BPS-19).
- Step 3: Further advancement to Director General (BPS-20) after 17 years total service, with required training.
4. Application Process
A. Through Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC)
- Visit the PPSC official website when vacancies are announced.
- Apply online, pay the required fee (around PKR 600), and submit documents (CNIC, degree, photo, domicile).
- Sit for a 100-mark MCQ-based written test (90 minutes). The test includes:
- 80% subject-related questions
- 20% general ability (Pakistan Studies, Current Affairs, English, Math, Urdu, Science, Basic Computers, etc.)
B. Post-Test Process
- Shortlisted candidates may undergo an interview, after which final selections are announced.
5. PT Tips from Community Insight
Service applicants have shared:
“I also checked … the test will assess my technical writing skills and knowledge of major ongoing projects … like WASH, PRSWSSP … do some research on their competitors and find weaknesses and opportunities.”
This illustrates the value of preparing beyond just the syllabus — understanding programs and showcasing analytical thinking can help.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Master’s in social sciences (2nd division) |
| Age Limit | Male: up to 35; Female: up to 38 |
| Salary | ~PKR 55,000/month (including allowances) |
| Promotion | BPS-17 → BPS-18 (5 yrs) → BPS-19 (12 yrs) → BPS-20 (17 yrs) |
| Apply Via | PPSC portal with online application, test, and interview |
| Test Focus | Subject 80% / General ability 20% (MCQ) |
| Prep Tip | Study policy programs, develop writing & analytical skills |