Youth jobs in South Africa

Researcher into Sustainable Livelihoods and Access to Finance (A2F) accessible to women and youth at SaveAct

12 January 2026

Pietermaritzburg, KZN

Full time (planned for 8 months, part‑time may be considered)

Location: Pietermaritzburg, South Africa / hybrid work negotiable

Job type: Office‑based role based ideally in Pietermaritzburg. It is envisaged as a full‑time role for approximately 8 months. Part‑time applicants may be considered. If you have distinct preferences please state these in your application.

SaveAct is a leading savings group methodology promoter in South Africa. We are seeking a strong post‑graduate researcher with a passion for social change and an in‑depth familiarity with the South African context. The researcher should be familiar with factors that inhibit the social and economic advancement of women and youth. You should have an integrated knowledge of society, including social and economic systems that trap people in poverty. We are looking for someone with outstanding analytical, writing and presentation skills, who is self‑motivated and curious about the ways in which this cohort of society can secure pathways out of poverty.

The wider focus is on developing the case and methods for fostering a multi‑stakeholder cooperation and ecosystem aimed at achieving societal and systemic change amongst women and youth. Knowledge of complex systems change theory is an advantage. Research will be aimed at assembling and documenting evidence of change and will include a piece of work related to access to credit for savings group members, and the anticipated effects.

The candidate will work on an exciting initiative aimed at expanding an ecosystem of actors with a shared vision for scaling our core methodology to 2 million women, including youth. The researcher will offer support to the director by designing, implementing and documenting lean research into various topics, including ways in which SaveAct’s savings methodology can be enhanced through innovations that may include digitisation of records and establishing credit scoring. Desktop and key informant interviews will be undertaken with national and international stakeholders with an interest in the livelihoods, financial capability and A2F of women and youth.

You should be skilled at generating actionable insights, communicating findings to diverse stakeholders, and fostering a learning culture within SaveAct and among its partners. Familiarity with models and methodologies that promote social and economic transformation is important.

Proficiency in isiZulu or isiXhosa is an advantage (not a requirement).

• Ensuring that SaveAct collects valuable data and insights required to draw conclusions on areas suggesting scope for innovation and ideas that warrant testing.
• Become quickly immersed in our Theory of Change and key references including in the global Savings Group sector, to be in a position to engage on options relevant to South Africa, especially in its rural context.
• Co‑design and execute focused quantitative and qualitative studies, including surveys, interviews, and preparation of case studies. Familiarity with online data collection tools including WhatsApp is an advantage.
• Analyse and interpret data to produce evidence‑driven insights that inform learning and adaptation.
• Compile quality reports and insight notes with visualisation of what the context and data is reflecting.
• Contribute to internal and external learning processes that strengthen programme delivery and impact.
• Collaborate with field teams and partners to surface and document experiences and perspectives on what key steps could enhance the programme and its impact.

• A postgraduate degree (Master’s preferred) in development studies, social sciences, economics, microfinance, or a related field with above‑average results.
• Exposure to rural livelihoods and an in‑depth understanding of the impediments to women and youth escaping poverty.
• Expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Experience in developing data collection tools and using data systems.
• Excellent analytical and writing skills, with the ability to communicate complex data simply and clearly.
• Experience in contributing to learning and reflection processes around complex, multi‑layered challenges.

• Ability to think critically and systemically.
• Ability to communicate insights in accessible visual forms.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.

• A motivational letter detailing why you are a strong fit for this role (not more than two pages).
• Your CV (not more than three pages).
• Three contactable references.
• Send to info@saveact.org.za by 12 January 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview and may be asked to participate in a case study exercise. SaveAct reserves the right not to make an appointment.