About the Organization
Youth Network for Sustainable Development (YNSD) is a well-established indigenous non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering communities and promoting sustainable development in Ethiopia.
Founded in 2003 by youth groups and school clubs, the organization has grown into a nationwide network supporting more than 1,000 youth associations.
YNSD focuses on strengthening community systems through partnerships, capacity building, and grassroots engagement.
The organization is widely respected for its role in creating opportunities for youth and marginalized groups.
Its work spans multiple sectors, including youth empowerment, women’s development, public health, environmental sustainability, and advocacy.
YNSD’s mission is to contribute to sustainable development by building strong, resilient communities.
Its vision emphasizes empowering Ethiopian youth to actively participate in national development.
The organization offers a dynamic and meaningful work environment for professionals seeking impactful careers.
The Future for Biniti (F4B) project is a major initiative implemented in partnership with a consortium led by Amref Health Africa.
The project focuses on protecting girls and young women from harmful practices while improving their social and economic well-being.
By combining livelihood support with community engagement, the project creates long-term and sustainable change.
Job Description
The Project Field Officer for Livelihoods & Community Systems Strengthening plays a key role in implementing economic empowerment activities at the community level.
This position focuses on improving livelihoods while strengthening local systems that support vulnerable populations.
The role is ideal for individuals passionate about economic development and community transformation.
The officer will work closely with community members, local leaders, and institutions to promote sustainable solutions.
This position offers the opportunity to directly contribute to improving household incomes and community resilience.
Professionals in this role will gain valuable experience in financial inclusion, coordination, and grassroots development.
Key responsibilities include:
- Establishing and supporting Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) groups
- Training and mentoring community members in financial literacy and income-generating activities
- Facilitating awareness sessions for local leaders, religious institutions, and service providers
- Supporting community-based accountability and feedback mechanisms
- Organizing coordination meetings among key local stakeholders
- Assisting in the distribution of livelihood inputs and vocational training support
- Monitoring the progress of VSLA groups and local coordination platforms
- Collecting and reporting data related to livelihoods and community systems activities
Educational Qualification
Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Agriculture, Economics, Business, Rural Development, or a related field.
Additional training in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, or development studies will be an advantage.
This role provides an excellent opportunity to apply academic knowledge in real-world development practice.
Work Experience
Candidates must have a minimum of four years of practical experience in livelihoods programming or community development.
Experience working with Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) or income-generating activities is highly desirable.
Experience in community governance or accountability systems is an added advantage.
Familiarity with the local context of the project implementation area is strongly preferred.
Relevant experience will enable effective engagement with communities and successful program delivery.
Required Skills and Competencies
Candidates should have hands-on experience in community-based savings and lending methodologies.
The ability to train and mentor adults in financial literacy and small business skills is essential.
Strong networking and coordination skills are required to engage effectively with local stakeholders.
Basic knowledge of monitoring, evaluation, and reporting is important for tracking progress.
Applicants should demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and initiative.
Excellent communication and facilitation skills are critical for this role.
Fluency in English and Afaan Oromoo, both written and spoken, is required.
This position supports professional growth by strengthening leadership, technical, and coordination skills.
Job Location
The position is based in Bahirdar, with field activities conducted in surrounding communities.
The role requires regular travel and direct interaction with local stakeholders.
Working in this environment provides valuable experience in community-based development.
Employment Type and Salary
The position is full-time.
Salary details are not specified and will follow the organization’s internal scale.
Employees benefit from meaningful work, professional development opportunities, and exposure to impactful programs.
This role offers strong career growth opportunities within the NGO and development sector.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit an application letter and an updated CV combined into a single PDF document.
Applicants are not required to submit scanned certificates or additional supporting documents at this stage.
Applications must include contact details of at least three professional references.
Candidates should clearly indicate the position and location in the subject line of their email as: “Application for Project Field Officer – [Location]”.
Applications should be sent to: ynsdhr2025@gmail.com
The application deadline is March 30, 2026.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further recruitment processes.
YNSD is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.
The organization maintains strict safeguarding standards and is committed to ensuring a safe, inclusive, and respectful working environment for all employees.