Rural Development Facilitator - Upington

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote contractor role

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Rural Development Facilitator to work in the Upington region and surrounding rural communities. You will identify local needs, mobilize communities, and help implement projects that improve livelihoods, water management, agriculture, and basic services.

You will coordinate with local leaders and stakeholders from a remote location. The role emphasizes participatory approaches, capacity building, and sustainable development practices, with travel to rural areas

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Development Studies, Rural Development, Agriculture, Social Sciences, or related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in rural development facilitation, community development, or project management in rural contexts.
• Experience with participatory rural appraisal (PRA) and community engagement methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Conduct participatory rural needs assessments in Upington region.
• Facilitate community consultations and workshops to enhance participation in project design and implementation.
• Support community-based projects in agriculture, water management, skills development, and basic services.
• Build relationships with community leaders, government, and development actors.

Skills

Facilitation

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Remote work

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Project management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive non-profit organization committed to sustainable development and community empowerment in underserved regions, is seeking an experienced Rural Development Facilitator for the Upington area and its surrounding rural communities. This role is crucial in identifying local needs, fostering community participation, and facilitating the implementation of projects that aim to improve livelihoods, enhance infrastructure, and promote socio-economic development. You will work closely with local leaders, community members, and other stakeholders to co-create solutions and build local capacity. This position requires a proactive individual with strong facilitation skills, a deep understanding of rural challenges, and a commitment to sustainable practices. As this role is fully remote, you will have the flexibility to manage your fieldwork and administrative tasks from any location, ensuring strategic oversight and engagement with the communities in and around Upington .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct participatory rural needs assessments to identify development priorities in the Upington region.


• Facilitate community consultations and workshops to foster participation in project design and implementation.


• Support the development and execution of community-based projects focused on agriculture, water management, skills development, and basic services.


• Build and maintain strong working relationships with community leaders, local government, and other development actors.


• Provide technical guidance and capacity building support to community groups and local enterprises.


• Monitor project progress, identify challenges, and develop adaptive strategies for successful implementation.


• Prepare regular project reports, documenting activities, outcomes, and lessons learned.


• Promote the adoption of sustainable agricultural and environmental practices within rural communities.


• Act as a liaison between communities and Our client, ensuring effective communication and alignment of goals.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Development Studies, Rural Development, Agriculture, Social Sciences, or a related field.


• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in rural development facilitation, community development, or project management in a rural context.


• Demonstrated experience in participatory rural appraisal (PRA) and community engagement methodologies.


• Strong understanding of rural livelihoods, agriculture, and socio-economic challenges in the Northern Cape.


• Excellent facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills.


• Ability to work independently and manage multiple project components effectively from a remote location.


• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with project management tools.


• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively within rural areas.


• Commitment to principles of community-led development and sustainability.

Benefits

This fully remote contractor position offers a competitive remuneration package, providing the flexibility to work from anywhere while driving impactful development in the Upington region. You will have the opportunity to engage directly with communities, co-create solutions, and contribute to tangible improvements in rural livelihoods. Our client offers a dynamic and challenging work environment where your expertise will be highly valued. Join a team dedicated to fostering sustainable development and empowering rural populations, making a significant difference from your chosen location.