About the Organisation

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is a renowned humanitarian organization working to combat poverty and uphold human dignity through long-term development, emergency relief, and peacebuilding programs. Founded in 1943 by the U.S. Catholic Bishops, CRS has become a trusted leader in international aid, reaching millions in over 100 countries.

The organization is known for its ethical delivery of services and effectiveness in disaster relief, agriculture, health, education, and economic development. CRS promotes a value-based work culture prioritizing integrity, compassion, and respect, offering significant career opportunities in an inclusive, diverse environment with flexible work arrangements. CRS collaborates with local businesses, leveraging cutting-edge technology and research-based solutions for maximum impact.

Guided by Catholic principles of justice, stewardship, and solidarity, CRS engages in corporate social responsibility initiatives benefiting the vulnerable. For more information, visit www.crs.org.

Job Summary

As part of the Restore Africa project team, the Project Officer will monitor project activities and report to CRS to support its mission of assisting the poor and vulnerable. The role involves coordinating land restoration activities, supervising community-based facilitators, providing agroforestry technical support through local groups, and collaborating with tree monitors to achieve project goals in sustainable land management, community engagement, and tree survival.

Roles, Duties, and Responsibilities

Coordinate and execute project activities per the detailed implementation plan, adhering to CRS program quality principles, standards, donor requirements, and best practices, including district work plans
Monitor and report issues or gaps to enable adaptive management of plans and implementation timelines
Facilitate partner reflection on project learning
Support accountability through project evaluation activities and assist partners in collecting and analyzing project data using established tools and methods, including close collaboration with tree monitors for tree planting, survival rates, and health tracking
Ensure timely and accurate data collection and reporting from the field, supporting troubleshooting and adaptive management based on monitoring feedback
Prepare reports according to the established reporting schedule
Identify capacity and technical support needs for community-based facilitators, LCDA groups, lead farmers, and tree monitors, and monitor capacity building and technical support activities to ensure desired impact
Ensure all project documentation for assigned tasks is complete
Assist in gathering information for case studies and best practices reports
Collaborate with local government, community leaders, and other stakeholders on representation activities to foster cooperation and support
Represent the project at district-level meetings and forums

Qualifications, Education, and Competencies

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
At least two years of experience in project work
Recent graduates are encouraged to apply
Experience working with NGOs in agroforestry, livelihoods, extension services, etc.
Experience in community engagement and participatory action planning

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

Experience in project monitoring and collecting useful data is an advantage
3 to 5 years of experience in implementing community-based projects

Abilities, Skills, and Knowledge

Proficiency in MS Windows and MS Office packages (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Observant, attentive listener, and analytical with sound judgment
Excellent relationship management skills to work effectively with local partners and community members
High attention to detail to ensure tasks are completed correctly and on time
Proactive, results-driven, and service-oriented approach to work
Ability to multitask and work independently
Fluency in English with strong oral and written communication skills

Travel

This is a field-based position, and candidates must be willing and able to travel up to 50% of the time.

Agency-wide Competencies (for all CRS Staff)

Agency competencies articulate the behaviors and attitudes expected of all employees. When demonstrated, they create engaging workplaces, empower employees to achieve their best, and help CRS fulfill its mission. These competencies are rooted in CRS's mission, values, and guiding principles and enable staff to perform their jobs and achieve desired results.

Personal Accountability: Consistently takes responsibility for one's own actions
Acts with Integrity: Demonstrates behaviors and attitudes in line with the CRS mission and guiding principles; inspires trust by matching words with actions
Builds and Maintains Trust: Understands the skills and abilities of their team and can delegate tasks accordingly; creates an environment of reassurance and confidence with team members; consistently exhibits and promotes upheld values and lifestyle choices
Collaborates with Others: Works effectively in a team environment with people of diverse cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles
Open to Learn: Seeks out experiences that may alter their worldview or expand their capacity

Agency Leadership Skills

Lead Change: Continuously seeks ways to strengthen the agency, promoting a culture of flexibility, openness, and innovation
Develops and Recognizes Others: Helps staff realize their full potential and contributes to team and agency performance improvement
Strategic Mindset: Understands how to translate, communicate, and execute the agency’s strategy and team’s goals