Community Project Manager, Rural Development

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonus structure

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement savings plan

Generous annual leave and public-holid

Professional development

Travel allowance

Mission-driven team

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Queenstown, NZ is seeking a Project Manager to drive rural development initiatives. This hybrid role combines remote coordination with essential on-site engagement with communities, local authorities, NGOs and funders.

You will plan and deliver infrastructure and social impact projects, manage budgets, risks, and reporting, and foster participation across diverse stakeholders while advancing development goals.

Qualifications

• Proven PM experience in community or rural development.
• Experience managing diverse stakeholders.
• Strong knowledge of PM methodologies.
• Excellent communication and facilitation.
• Experience with hybrid work environments.

Responsibilities

• Manage the planning, execution, and successful delivery of community and rural development projects.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, budgets, timelines, and stakeholder engagement strategies.
• Coordinate with community members, local authorities, NGOs, and funding partners.
• Ensure project activities are aligned with community needs and development goals.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
• Manage project finances and ensure accountability and transparency.
• Facilitate community participation and feedback throughout the project lifecycle.
• Maintain project documentation and provide regular, clear reports to stakeholders.
• Adapt project management approaches for hybrid work environments, ensuring effective remote and on-site collaboration.

Skills

Project management

Community development

Stakeholder engagement

PM methodologies

Communication skills

MS Project

Excel for tracking

Rural/underserved communities

Hybrid work model

Conflict resolution

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences/Development Studies/Public Administration

Tools

MS Project

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is looking for an enthusiastic and community-focused Project Manager to drive rural development initiatives in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This hybrid role offers the flexibility to work remotely while maintaining essential on‑site engagement with local communities and project sites. You will be responsible for managing a portfolio of projects aimed at improving infrastructure, economic opportunities, and social well‑wellness in rural areas. The ideal candidate will possess strong project management skills, a deep understanding of community development principles, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact. You will work closely with community leaders, local government, NGOs, and various stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered effectively and sustainably. This position requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, resilience, and the ability to navigate diverse cultural contexts. We seek a dedicated individual committed to empowering rural communities through well‑managed projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the planning, execution, and successful delivery of community and rural development projects.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, budgets, timelines, and stakeholder engagement strategies.
• Coordinate with community members, local authorities, NGOs, and funding partners.
• Ensure project activities are aligned with community needs and development goals.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
• Manage project finances and ensure accountability and transparency.
• Facilitate community participation and feedback throughout the project lifecycle.
• Maintain project documentation and provide regular, clear reports to stakeholders.
• Adapt project management approaches for hybrid work environments, ensuring effective remote and on‑site collaboration.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Project Manager, preferably in community development, social impact, or rural development.
• Demonstrated success in managing projects with diverse stakeholder groups, including community engagement.
• Strong understanding of project management methodologies and best practices.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Excel for tracking).
• A Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Experience working in rural or underserved communities is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing remote work with significant on‑site presence.
• Strong problem‑solving and conflict resolution skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary reflecting experience and commitment.
• Performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and capacity building.
• Travel allowance for on‑site project work.
• The reward of contributing to tangible community improvements.
• A supportive and mission-driven team environment.