Project Officer - Rural Development

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Travel allowance for site visits

Medical aid contributions

Pension fund contributions

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West, seeks a Project Officer to lead planning, implementation and monitoring of rural development projects across agriculture, small business, infrastructure and social services.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree and 4–6 years of PM experience, strong stakeholder relations, and the ability to work with communities and government partners to deliver sustainable impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Development Studies, Agriculture, Economics, Social Sciences, or related field.
• 4–6 years of project management experience, preferably in rural development.
• Strong understanding of rural socio-economic challenges and opportunities.
• Experience managing lifecycles, budgets and stakeholder relations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and reporting abilities.
• Proficiency with project management software and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of rural development projects in the North West province.
• Conduct needs assessments and feasibility studies for new project initiatives.
• Develop project proposals, budgets, and work plans.
• Manage project resources, ensuring efficient utilization of funds and materials.
• Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, local authorities, and partner organizations.
• Monitor project progress, identify challenges, and implement corrective actions.
• Collect and analyze project data, preparing progress reports for stakeholders.
• Facilitate community participation and align projects with local needs and priorities.
• Organize and conduct training sessions for project beneficiaries.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies and donor requirements.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Reporting skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

MS Office

Project management software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Development Studies / Agriculture / Economics / Social Sciences

Tools

MS Office Suite

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a non-profit organization committed to sustainable rural development, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Project Officer . This full-time role is based in Mahikeng, North West . The Project Officer will be responsible for the planning, implementation, and monitoring of various development projects aimed at improving the livelihoods of rural communities. This includes initiatives focused on agriculture, small business development, infrastructure, and social services. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of rural dynamics, excellent project management skills, and a passion for community empowerment. You will work closely with local communities, government stakeholders, and other partners to ensure project success and sustainability. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to tangible improvements in rural areas and foster economic growth in the North West province. We are looking for a results-oriented professional who can navigate the complexities of rural development work. Your expertise will be key to driving positive change.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of rural development projects in the North West province.
• Conduct needs assessments and feasibility studies for new project initiatives.
• Develop project proposals, budgets, and work plans.
• Manage project resources, ensuring efficient utilization of funds and materials.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, local authorities, and partner organizations.
• Monitor project progress, identify challenges, and implement corrective actions.
• Collect and analyze project data, preparing regular progress reports for stakeholders.
• Facilitate community participation and ensure projects are aligned with local needs and priorities.
• Organize and conduct training sessions for project beneficiaries.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies and donor requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Development Studies, Agriculture, Economics, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in project management, preferably in rural development or community-based projects.
• Strong understanding of rural socio-economic challenges and opportunities.
• Proven ability to manage project lifecycles, budgets, and stakeholder relations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and reporting skills.
• Experience working in the North West province, particularly around Mahikeng , is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in project management software and MS Office Suite.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to sustainable development principles.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to drive impactful rural development initiatives in the North West .
• Professional growth and development in project management.
• Supportive work environment with a dedicated team.
• Travel allowance for project-related site visits.
• Medical aid and pension fund contributions.