National Volunteer – Livelihood Officer

Job Posting Organization:
VSO is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting volunteering as a powerful and practical means to combat poverty and inequality. Established with the mission to create lasting change through volunteering, VSO believes in empowering individuals in some of the world's most impoverished and fragile regions rather than merely providing aid. The organization operates under the Volunteering for Development (VfD) approach, which prioritizes the most marginalized individuals and focuses on developing active citizens who can drive local community-led change. VSO's work is grounded in years of evidence and learning, ensuring that sustainable development goals are achieved long after a project or grant concludes. The organization is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and promoting equal opportunities for all.

Job Overview:
The National Volunteer – Livelihood Officer plays a crucial role in the effective implementation of livelihood-related activities under the RECAP project. This position is centered on enhancing household and community resilience through sustainable livelihood diversification, income-generating activities, market linkages, and skills development. The officer will ensure that all activities align with climate adaptation and peacebuilding objectives. Key responsibilities include supporting the implementation of various livelihood activities such as climate-smart agriculture, livestock-based livelihoods, and vocational skills development initiatives. The officer will also assist in mobilizing community groups, particularly youth and women, to engage in livelihood interventions, and will promote environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient practices at the community level.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Volunteer – Livelihood Officer include:

• Supporting the implementation of project livelihood activities, including climate-smart agriculture, livestock-based livelihoods, income-generating activities (IGAs), and vocational or skills development initiatives.
• Assisting in mobilizing and supporting community groups, particularly youth and women groups, engaged in livelihood interventions.
• Supporting the distribution and appropriate use of livelihood inputs, starter kits, or productive assets in accordance with project guidelines.
• Promoting environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient livelihood practices at the community level.
• Collaborating with local stakeholders to enhance market linkages and ensure the sustainability of livelihood initiatives.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of livelihood activities on community resilience and providing feedback for continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the National Volunteer – Livelihood Officer position should possess the following qualifications:

• Strong understanding of livelihood strategies and sustainable development practices.
• Experience in community mobilization and engagement, particularly with marginalized groups.
• Knowledge of climate-smart agriculture and livestock management practices.
• Familiarity with vocational training and skills development programs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to facilitate collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work in challenging environments and adapt to changing circumstances.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background, ideally a degree in development studies, agriculture, environmental science, or a related field. Additional training or certifications in community development, project management, or sustainable livelihoods will be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2-3 years of experience in community development, livelihood programming, or a related field. Experience working with NGOs or in international development settings is highly desirable. Familiarity with the local context and community dynamics in Ethiopia will be an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of relevant Oromia local languages spoken in the project areas is highly desirable. Proficiency in additional local dialects will be considered a plus.

Additional Notes:
This position is a volunteer role, and while an allowance will be provided to cover reasonable living expenses in the country, it may not be sufficient to send money home. Accommodation will be basic, reflecting the organization's commitment to working with some of the poorest communities in the world. The contract duration, salary, and other specifics are not specified, but the application closing date is January 8, 2026, with interviews scheduled for January 30, 2026, and a start date of March 3, 202

• VSO reserves the right to close the job early if a sufficient number of applications are received.