Who can be a development worker?

You should be aged 21-62. We welcome applications from any nationality but you can not apply for a placement your country of citizenship.

The skills we're looking for are incredibly varied.  We offer a wide range of placements in education, health, agriculture, project management, the environment, fundraising and advocacy to name just a few.

You normally need a relevant qualification and at least two years’ work experience.  In order to effectively share your skills, the ability to mentor and train others is essential.   

Most placements are for two years, to give you the chance to make a lasting impact. For some placements, shorter periods might be acceptable for the partner organisation.

Personal qualities (these will be assessed at interview)
Integrity
Managing stress
Self-reliance and self-confidence
Self awareness
Resilience
Cross-cultural sensitivity
Working with and developing others
Flexibility

Families
We welcome applications from couples who both have relevant skills.  Sometimes we can also accept accompanying children and/or partners who are not applying to be development workers.  We generally cover the cost of flights and medical insurance for your partner and children, but you must indicate on your application form if you are an individual applicant or a family.

Click here to browse our current vacancies or click here to find out more about our international volunteering programme.

This page was updated on 9th December 2008.