About Company
Caritas Kisangani is a vital humanitarian and development organization operating under the Archdiocese of Kisangani. As a local branch of Caritas Congo and part of the global Caritas Internationalis network, we are dedicated to serving the most vulnerable communities in Tshopo Province and surrounding areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Our mission encompasses a wide range of programs, including emergency relief, food security, health, education, peacebuilding, and sustainable livelihoods, all aimed at fostering human dignity, social justice, and holistic development. We work tirelessly at the grassroots level, empowering communities to build resilience and advocate for their rights. Joining Caritas Kisangani means becoming part of a compassionate team committed to making a tangible, positive impact in the lives of those in greatest need, driven by principles of solidarity, subsidiarity, and respect for all.
Job Description
Caritas Kisangani is seeking a dynamic and dedicated NGO Project Officer for Community Outreach to strengthen our engagement with local communities and ensure the effective implementation of our development and humanitarian programs. The successful candidate will be instrumental in bridging the gap between our organizational objectives and the realities on the ground, fostering strong relationships with community leaders, beneficiaries, and local stakeholders. This role requires a passion for community development, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in challenging environments. You will be responsible for coordinating and monitoring project activities, facilitating community participation, conducting needs assessments, and ensuring that our interventions are culturally sensitive and responsive to local priorities. This is a critical role for someone committed to empowering communities and driving sustainable change within Tshopo Province. The Project Officer will report directly to the Program Manager and will play a key role in achieving our mission of compassion and justice.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and facilitate community engagement and mobilization activities for various projects (e.g., health, WASH, food security).
- Conduct regular field visits to project sites to monitor progress, identify challenges, and provide on-site support.
- Organize and facilitate community meetings, workshops, and awareness campaigns on project-related themes.
- Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with community leaders, local authorities, beneficiaries, and other stakeholders.
- Collect and analyze qualitative and quantitative data through surveys, focus groups, and interviews to inform project design and evaluation.
- Prepare timely and accurate project reports, including progress reports, activity reports, and incident reports.
- Ensure all project activities adhere to Caritas Kisangani’s policies, national regulations, and international humanitarian standards.
- Support in the identification of community needs and contribute to the development of new project proposals.
- Provide technical support and capacity building to community volunteers and local partners as required.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in community outreach, mobilization, or project implementation within an NGO setting.
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Public Health, or a related field.
- Strong understanding of participatory approaches and community-led development principles.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
- Proficiency in Swahili and Lingala (both written and spoken) is essential, with strong working knowledge of French.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in challenging and remote field environments.
- Demonstrated ability to collect, analyze, and report on project data.
- Valid motorcycle driving license and ability to ride in difficult terrain.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a relevant field.
- Experience working specifically in Tshopo Province or similar contexts in DR Congo.
- Familiarity with humanitarian principles and protection standards.
- Experience in budget monitoring and procurement processes.
- Knowledge of local customs and traditions in Kisangani and Tshopo Province.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Health insurance coverage.
- Generous paid time off and holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Meaningful work making a direct impact on vulnerable communities.
- A collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Accommodation support for expatriates (if applicable).
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application, including a cover letter outlining their motivation and suitability for the role, and a detailed CV. Please ensure your application highlights your experience in community outreach and project management. Click on the application link below to apply for this job. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.