Project Manager - Rural Development & Community Projects

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

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Travel reimbursement

Contractor rate

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Project Manager for a mission-driven non‑profit focused on sustainable development and community well‑being. The role supports initiatives in Queenstown, with a hybrid model requiring on‑site engagement with communities and partners, plus remote planning and admin tasks.

You will lead planning, budgeting, stakeholder coordination, risk mitigation, reporting, and fundraising support to deliver vital services in rural communities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, preferably within the non‑profit, community development, or rural sector.
• Proven experience managing projects involving diverse stakeholders and community engagement.
• Strong understanding of development principles, poverty alleviation strategies, and rural dynamics.
• Ability to travel to Queenstown and surrounding rural areas.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and monitor community-focused development projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and community needs.
• Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and ensure efficient resource allocation for maximum impact.
• Coordinate activities with local community leaders, government agencies, partner organizations, and volunteers.
• Identify potential risks and challenges in project implementation and develop proactive mitigation strategies.
• Ensure project activities adhere to ethical standards, sustainability principles, and relevant regulations.
• Facilitate community participation and engagement throughout the project lifecycle.
• Develop and maintain project documentation, including progress reports, financial records, and stakeholder communication logs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community members and key stakeholders.
• Evaluate project outcomes and impact, collecting data for reporting and future planning.
• Contribute to proposal writing and fundraising efforts for new community development initiatives.

Skills

Community engagement

Communication & negotiation

Stakeholder coordination

Project management

PM tools proficiency

Education

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

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a non‑profit organization dedicated to fostering sustainable development and improving community well‑being, is seeking a motivated Project Manager to oversee initiatives in the Queenstown, Eastern Cape region. This position involves a hybrid work model, requiring regular on‑site engagement with communities and project partners, alongside remote planning and administrative tasks. You will be responsible for managing projects focused on areas such as infrastructure development, education programs, agricultural support, and healthcare access within rural communities. The ideal candidate will possess strong community engagement skills, a solid understanding of project management principles, and a passion for making a positive social impact. This role is crucial for driving positive change and ensuring the effective delivery of vital services in the Eastern Cape. Join a mission‑driven organization committed to empowering local communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and monitor community-focused development projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and community needs.
• Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and ensure efficient resource allocation for maximum impact.
• Coordinate activities with local community leaders, government agencies, partner organizations, and volunteers.
• Identify potential risks and challenges in project implementation and develop proactive mitigation strategies.
• Ensure project activities adhere to ethical standards, sustainability principles, and relevant regulations.
• Facilitate community participation and engagement throughout the project lifecycle.
• Develop and maintain project documentation, including progress reports, financial records, and stakeholder communication logs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community members and key stakeholders.
• Evaluate project outcomes and impact, collecting data for reporting and future planning.
• Contribute to proposal writing and fundraising efforts for new community development initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, preferably within the non‑profit, community development, or rural sector.
• Proven experience in managing projects involving diverse stakeholders and community engagement.
• Strong understanding of development principles, poverty alleviation strategies, and rural dynamics.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, with sensitivity to cultural contexts.
• Proficiency in project management tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid setting, requiring travel to Queenstown and surrounding rural areas.
• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities and resourcefulness.
• Passion for social impact and community empowerment.
• Knowledge of the Eastern Cape socio-economic landscape is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive contractor rate commensurate with experience.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Opportunity to make a significant positive impact on underserved communities.
• Exposure to diverse development projects and methodologies.
• Professional development opportunities related to project management and community development.
• Reimbursement for travel expenses related to project activities.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment focused on social impact.
• Networking opportunities with other development professionals and organizations.
• Potential for contract extension based on performance and project funding.
• Contribution to sustainable development goals.