"Food Security in the Harbour Basin "

This is a three year crown funded project.

Applications are invited for Community Development Worker(s). Either one full time position or two part time positions considered.

These roles are for developing and implementing schemes that encourage and enhance food security.

Applicants should have:

• A passion for Community Development

• Proven experience in project planning, implementation and evaluation

• Demonstrated high level of communication skills
  

• High level of research and analytical skills

• Ability to work independently, under limited supervision and as a member of a team

• Demonstrated ability to take a project from concept stage to inception

Applications with CV can be sent to Project Lyttelton, PO Box 74, Lyttelton or emailed to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Closing date: 16^th September 2011

For further information contact Margaret Jefferies 328 9260

Project Lyttelton is a values based organization.

To read the full job description click here...

Job Description For:

Community Development Worker(s)

Position details

• One full time or two part time persons considered.
• Employed by Project Lyttelton on a three year fixed term contract.
• FTE $50,000 per annum.
• Positions funded through a grant from the Department of Internal Affairs - Community Development Scheme.

Reporting Relationship

Reports to the Project Lyttelton Manager and is supported by an Advisory Group. The Advisory Group will assist in formulating strategic direction for the project and provide ongoing support for the Community Development Worker.

Staff Reporting to the Position

No direct reports. There may be requirements to manage contractors.

Primary Objective of the Job

Facilitate the development of food security within the Harbour Basin by setting up a cooperative scheme along the lines of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) systems or similar. This will be accomplished through appropriate research and identification of skills, resources and desires within the local community.

The co-operative model when in place will be able to be adapted or expanded for other initiatives. The wider community will be educated around the role, use and capacity of co-operatives and be able to initiate new endeavours using such a system, creating a shift from "I" to "we" thinking.

This Community Development project will help considerably in building social cohesion and recovery from the confusion and the sense of hopelessness brought about by the earthquakes.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Research potential co-op models and present options & recommendations to AG leading to a feasibility assessment of the preferred model(s).
• Consult and engage community and other stakeholders.
• Produce a business plan for the preferred model.
• Lead the implementation of the co-op in accordance with the agreed business plan.
• Ensure that full and accurate records are kept on behalf of Project Lyttelton and that these records are appropriately kept and stored.

Method of working

• Use an Appreciative Inquiry approach to the work.
• Inclusive and collaborative.
• Exploring ways all who are drawn to the project can be involved.
• Work as part of a team but also be focused and able to self-direct, setting and working to tight deadlines.
• Work closely in conjunction with other Project Lyttelton projects.

Skills/Competencies

• A passion for Community Development is essential. A demonstrated ability to deliver collaborative community based projects is desired.
• Proven experience in project planning, implementation and evaluation (including budgeting, timelines, planning and reporting).
• Demonstrated high level of communication (oral and written), engagement and interpersonal skills including consulting, liaising with and maintaining effective professional partnerships with a range of stakeholders.
• Research and analytical skills in determining and presenting the feasibility (including pros and cons) of various co-op models.
• Ability to work independently, under limited supervision and as a member of a team within the Project Lyttelton broad range of contexts and values.
• Demonstrated ability to take a project from concept stage to inception.

Key Selection Criteria

• Relevant tertiary qualification and/or demonstrated experience and passion for Community Development.
• Demonstrated understanding of or keen interest in learning about and working in community development frameworks as they apply to co-ops or similar models.
• Well-developed interpersonal, oral and written communication skills, including demonstrated facilitation and engagement skills.
• Previous experience in the preparation of business plans and business feasibility studies.
• Demonstrated ability to and or keen interest in the delivery of collaborative, community based projects through the implementation of contemporary project management principles.
• Well-developed people and relationship skills with demonstrated ability to work independently and in a small team environment.

• Current ‘C' Class Driver's Licence

Key Outcomes of the Job

• Community Supported Agriculture and other systems fully researched, feasibility documented and established.
• All potential stakeholders identified and engaged based on interest.
• Business plan for local co-op system developed.
• Venture capital or other funding potentially sought for start up.
• Establishment of local food security program/system for Harbour Basin.

For more information please contact Project Lyttelton This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it 03 3289243