Rural Community Support Officer

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package with rural/

Meaningful impact in rural communities

Professional development opportunities

Travel allowance & work-related exp.

Supportive work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Rural Community Support Officer to serve Upington, Northern Cape. You will engage with residents, leaders, and service providers to assess needs and coordinate social support initiatives.

The role focuses on rural development, program implementation, and advocacy for community empowerment. A hybrid work arrangement with travel within the Northern Cape is expected.

Qualifications

• Qualification in Social Work, Community Development, Rural Development or related field.
• Proven experience in community development or social support, preferably rural.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Ability to travel extensively within the Northern Cape region.

Responsibilities

• Conduct needs assessments in rural communities to identify social, economic and health challenges.
• Develop and implement targeted support programs and initiatives.
• Liaise with government departments, NGOs and other service providers to access resources.
• Provide direct support and guidance to individuals and families in need.
• Organize community meetings, workshops and awareness campaigns.
• Build relationships with community leaders and residents.
• Monitor progress and report outcomes of initiatives.
• Advocate for rural community needs with authorities and organizations.
• Promote community participation and self-sufficiency.

Skills

Social Work

Community Development

Rural Development

Needs assessment

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Negotiation

Travel

Education

Social Work / Community Development / Rural Development

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated and resourceful Rural Community Support Officer to serve the communities of Upington, Northern Cape . This role is vital in ensuring that residents in rural areas have access to essential social services, support networks, and development opportunities. You will work closely with community members, local leaders, and various service providers to assess needs, coordinate assistance, and implement programs that enhance quality of life. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of rural challenges, excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and a passion for community development. Based in the expansive Northern Cape , this position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant difference in an area rich with culture and unique needs. We are committed to empowering rural communities through dedicated support and resource linkage.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct needs assessments within rural communities to identify social, economic, and health challenges.
• Develop and implement targeted support programs and initiatives.
• Liaise with government departments, NGOs, and other service providers to facilitate access to resources.
• Provide direct support and guidance to individuals and families in need.
• Organize community meetings, workshops, and awareness campaigns.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders and residents.
• Monitor the progress of support initiatives and report on outcomes.
• Advocate for the needs of rural communities with relevant authorities and organizations.
• Promote community participation and self-sufficiency.
• Maintain accurate records of community engagement and support activities.

Requirements

• A qualification in Social Work, Community Development, Rural Development, or a related field.
• Proven experience working in community development or social support, preferably in a rural context.
• Strong understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in rural communities.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work independently and travel extensively within the Northern Cape region.
• Proficiency in needs assessment and program implementation.
• Familiarity with rural service delivery models and relevant stakeholders.
• Good organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects.
• A genuine commitment to rural community empowerment.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule and engage actively within the Upington area.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with potential for rural hardship allowance.
• Meaningful work impacting the lives of people in rural communities.
• Opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
• Supportive work environment focused on community impact.
• Contribute to a respected organization dedicated to rural upliftment.
• Potential for career advancement within community development roles.
• Travel allowance and provision for work-related expenses.
• Experience working in the unique landscape of the Northern Cape .