Jobs – North Star Skills for Development

Interested in International Development – Short Assignments (3 – 5 Months) Available with CUSO

Being an ex-CUSO volunteer in Nigeria and later a CUSO Field Staff Officer in Ghana, I encourage individuals to have a look at what CUSO International has to offer by way of assignments. These days both e-volunteering and international placement are available, so too are placements in the North of Canada. See the information below that I pulled from an email received today.

The links in the BLOCKS below do not work but you can see what openings are currently available and where. To see all available openings scroll down to the bottom of this post.

This April, discover flexible volunteer placements designed to create meaningful impact through shorter 3-5 month opportunities combined with e-volunteering options. Our latest placements focus on economic resilience, inclusive growth, and private-sector engagement, supporting partners to strengthen inclusive policies, advance gender equality, and support entrepreneurship and workforce development.
We’re seeking Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and skills-based professionals, including Curriculum Advisors for the mining sector, to help reskill and upskill individuals and support youth employment.
Indigenous individuals are especially encouraged to apply for our Youth Sports & Recreation Coordinator placement in Northern Canada, supporting youth wellbeing and community development.
If you’ve never volunteered with Cuso International before, this is a great time to start. There’s a placement ready to take you somewhere new, professionally and personally!

View all current placements on our website

https://apply.workable.com/cuso-international/?utm_source=Placement+Alert&utm_medium=Email

To read about my experiences with CUSO in Nigeria and Ghana (and later with different organizations in other countries), check out my book Overseas Adventures available on this website, or from AMAZON.

GOOD LUCK!

WUSC is looking for consultants

https://wusc.bamboohr.com/careers/263

Establishment of a Pre-Qualified List (Roster) of International Consultants

Application Deadline: March 9th, 2026

Introduction and Background

World University Service of Canada (WUSC) is a Canadian non-profit organization working to create a better world for all young people. We bring together a diverse network of students, volunteers, schools, governments, and businesses who share this vision. Together, we develop solutions in education, economic opportunities, and empowerment to overcome inequality and exclusion for youth around the world, particularly young women and young refugees. WUSC currently operates in 28 countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as in Canada, with an annual budget of approximately CAD $65 million. Our global team includes over 350 staff, implementing a diverse portfolio of development projects in collaboration with numerous multilateral and bilateral donors, and philanthropic foundations.

To efficiently deliver on its growing project portfolio, organizational strategy, and business development initiatives, WUSC seeks to establish a Pre-Qualified List (Roster) of experienced consultants. This roster will serve as a readily available pool of technical specialists who can be rapidly mobilized to support WUSC’s operations globally on an as-needed basis.

Objective

The primary objective of this ToR is to solicit applications from highly qualified consultants to be included in WUSC’s Pre-Qualified Roster. Consultants selected for the Roster will enter into a framework agreement for the provision of specialized technical expertise and short-term support services across various thematic and operational areas.

If interested, check the details on type of consultants needed and the experience requirements on the webpage noted at the top of this post.

As a side note following my recent post about ‘volunteering’, WUSC is a well established Canadian volunteer recruiting and placement agency. They are clearly now adding another channel to their work – recruiting and placing both volunteers and consultants.

I wonder if other similar agencies will also look in this direction?

Sample CUSO International 2026 Volunteer Assignments in The Caribbean and Africa

I am sharing the email announcement from CUSO International about some upcoming 5-Month volunteer assignments (for both French and English language speakers). See the jobs listed below. Note that there are other jobs listed at the bottom link.

CUSO has a warm spot in my heart having been a CUSO teacher volunteer for two years in Nigeria, and two years later being a Field Staff Officer co-managing the 80 volunteers working in Ghana as well as small projects.

You can see Chapters 1 and 2 in my book “Overseas Adventures…” to learn more about my experiences there.

Cover of the book 'Overseas Adventures' by Arthur E. Shears, featuring a beach and ocean view with the title prominently displayed.

We’re excited to share our latest international volunteering opportunities for 2026! Did you know that the United Nations has declared 2026 the Year of the Volunteer? There’s no better time to make a meaningful impact abroad and be part of a global movement celebrating service and solidarity. These placements are designed for Canadian citizens and permanent residents seeking to make a meaningful impact abroad for a duration of 5 months. Whether you’re interested in volunteering internationally or know someone who might be, we invite you to explore our placements and find a role that suits your skills and interests. Alternatively, you can share these opportunities with your network if you think someone would be a good fit. Your contribution can truly impact communities around the world. As the holiday season approaches, we want to wish you and your loved ones joy, peace, and good health. Thank you for being part of our community and for supporting global change.

Volunteer Placements English fluency requiredCommunications/Advocacy Officer – Kingston, Jamaica Monitoring & Evaluation Officer – Kingston, Jamaica Research Officer – Kingston, Jamaica Gender Advisor – Roseau, Dominica Organizational Development Advisor – Georgetown, Guyana Marketing and Communication Advisor – Iringa, Tanzania Finance Advisor – Iringa, Tanzania Project Management Advisor – Mekele, Ethiopia Partnership and Collaboration Officer – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Labour Market Analyst – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Resource Mobilization Advisor – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Communications and Visibility Advisor (E-Volunteer) – Partner location: Ethiopia Graphics Designer and Content Developer (E-Volunteer) – Partner location: Ethiopia French fluency requiredConseiller(ère) en Marketing Digital – Yaoundé, Cameroun Conseiller(ère) en technologies de l’information – Yaoundé, Cameroun Conseiller(ère) en communication, marketing et media – Kinshasa, République démocratique du Congo Conseiller(ère) en Suivi et Évaluation de Projets – Porto-Novo, Bénin Conseiller(ère) en Plaidoyer – Yaoundé, Cameroun Conseiller(ère) en Mobilisation des Ressources– Yaoundé, Cameroun Conseiller(ère) en affaires – Yaoundé, Cameroun Conseiller(ère) en égalité des genres et inclusion – Yaoundé, Cameroun Conseiller(ère) en Développement Organisationnel (Volontariat virtuel) – Lieu de partenariat : République démocratique du Congo Conseiller(ère) en Web Development (Volontariat virtuel) – Lieu de partenariat : République démocratique du Congo

View all current placements on our website

Proud to See My Work Supporting TVET Strategy Development in Dominica Recognized

Group of five individuals in safety vests and hard hats standing at an industrial site in Dominica, featuring large piping in the background. The image highlights a focus on vocational education and training.

Catalyste+ Advisor Arthur Shears recently completed a pivotal assignment supporting the Dominica Technical Vocational Education and Training Council (DTVETC) in crafting a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan (2025/26–2030/31), as part of our CCEDM program. The plan outlines a transformative vision for inclusive, competency-based training, institutional strengthening—particularly at the Goodwill Secondary School TVET Centre of Excellence—and enhanced access to funding. Through strategic pillars focused on access, quality, governance, and labor market alignment, the plan sets the foundation for a resilient, future-ready workforce and positions Dominica to leverage regional opportunities like the Caribbean Future Skills Fund.

The above story was recently carried in the Catalyste+ Connects newsletter. My support was provided in-person to the DTVETC on the island for two weeks this past summer, with additional support provided virtually via Zoom before and afterwards. I had the privilege of working closely with a fantastic technical working group of national experts.

For Canadians, especially older professionals like me, Catalyste+ may be an opportunity to share our skills in Northern Canada and/or in developing countries.

Check their website for further information. You can also explore my BLOG posts for opportunities at Catalyste+ and elsewhere.

BLOG – North Star Skills for Development

And don’t forget my memoir – Overseas Adventures… – is available from my website as well. Dominica doesn’t feature in it, but it will if I eventually write a Further Adventures.

Positions Available at UNHCR

I was exploring a position with the UNHCR, and the attached link popped up with more than 20 jobs… Check it out. But first some information about UNHCR from their website. (I haven’t worked for UNHCR but did for ILO, FAO, UNESCO, ITU, UNRWA)

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, takes the lead in protecting people forced to flee wars and persecution around the world, providing life-saving aid including shelter, food and water to ensure their basic safety, rights and dignity. With 18,879 women and men working in 137 countries, we work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of 89.3 million forcibly displaced people worldwide.
Our dedicated and professional staff work around the clock in roles including legal protection, community services, public affairs, health and more. Despite the challenges they can face, our staff are proud to work for UNHCR and determined to make a positive impact.

Why a career with UNHCR?

Our dedicated staff work to protect and assist people fleeing conflict and persecution at a time when global forced displacement is at a record high. Our colleagues bring a wide range of specialized skills, including expertise in legal protection, administration, community services, public affairs, health and other disciplines.

Here’s the link. Careers

Good luck.

Ever Consider Joining the Canadian Armed Forces?

As a teenager, I joined the Army Cadets at my High School in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia and eventually became head of our cadet team. At university, I joined the reserve officer university training pr0gram (ROUTP) and spent two exciting summers learning the skills of soldering, service and leadership.

Yesterday, I was reminded the CAF are recruiting. See their email below.

Did you know the Canadian Armed Forces has over 100 possible career options? Join us to learn about the enrollment process and available career opportunities. Join us: https://forces.ca/en/events/#/details/16163 https://search.app/HGiJR

A grid displaying various career categories within the Canadian Armed Forces, including Transport & Logistics, Naval Operations, Aviation, Health Care, Combat Operations, Computing & Intelligence, Safety & Emergency Services, and Engineering & Infrastructure.

For those young people who have not decided to go to college or university, or for those currently studying, you might want to check out the above career site.

An excellent career option for some, while serving your country at the same time.

Why not check it out?

Want to Learn More About How to Become a Catalyste+ Advisor and Work in International Development

This year I applied to Catalyste+ and became an Advisor. I reviewed the various opportunities that matched my skill set and was chosen for two assignments in Dominica in the Caribbean. One was in-country for two weeks and the other virtual which lasted on and off over three months. They were both enjoyable and productive. In fact, during my assignments the Dominica TVET Council was able to draft their Five Year Strategic Plan 2026-2031.

Group of five individuals wearing safety vests and hard hats standing in front of industrial equipment in a mountainous area.

Catalyste+ is having an information session in late October. This is your chance to learn about their work and how you might fit in.

Image promoting Catalyst+ information sessions, featuring a group of people in a forested area with details about English and French sessions scheduled for October 29 and 30.

To register for the English language session, use this link:

Meeting Registration – Zoom

For the French language session, check here:

Meeting Registration – Zoom

Enjoy the information session.

Executive and Junior Level International Development Positions

A friend at the Canadian Association of Independent Development Professionals (CAIDC) shared the following. Have a look and kindly share.

Director (Chief Financial Officer)(D1) IAEA – International Atomic Energy Agency ∙ Vienna ∙ Senior Executive level ∙ Closing September 22

Assistant Analyst, Portfolio EBRD – European Bank for Reconstruction and Development∙ London ∙ Junior level ∙ Closing September 23

Advisor, Strategic Planning GICHD – Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining ∙ Geneva ∙ Senior level ∙ Closing September 26

Chief Strategy Officer IRRI – International Rice Research Institute ∙ Los Baños ∙ Senior Executive level ∙ Open until filled

[FO] (Senior) Environmental/ Social Development Specialist – Occupational Health and Safety AIIB – Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank ∙ Beijing ∙ Mid level ∙ Open until filled

Good luck if you do apply.

UNFPA Director Position Available

Job advertisement for the position of Director for External Relations at UNFPA in New York, USA, with a deadline of September 18, 2025.

Good Monday morning to all. It’s an especially good morning here in Nova Scotia, Canada after we had substantial rain over the last 24 hours. The Maritimes have had a long dry spell and needed relief. Prayers answered!

This UNFPA D-2 job in New York popped up on my LinkedIn account this morning with a request to share. You can find details here.

Spread the word and apply here before 18 September 2025 (9:29AM CEST): https://unf.pa/DirDER

hashtag#UNJobs

I am not that familiar with UNFPA so I found this paragraph in the job posting illuminating.

UNFPA is the lead UN agency for delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled. UNFPA’s Strategic Plan (2022-2025) underscores the relevance of the current strategic direction of UNFPA and focuses on three transformative results: to end preventable maternal deaths; end unmet need for family planning; and end gender-based violence and harmful practices. These results capture our strategic commitments on accelerating progress towards realizing the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Decade of Action leading up to 2030.

During my time as Team Leader on the EU-funded Skills and Technical Education Program co-managed by UNESCO, we did substantial work in the area of preventing gender based violence. You can find out more from the project website where reports, research and media resources are available.

RESOURCES – STEP

I describe my time in Malawi in the penultimate chapter of my book – Overseas Adventures – From Afghanistan to Zambia and Points In-Between. It’s available at the web address below or from Amazon.

Overseas Adventures – North Star Skills for Development

Good luck.

Looking for International Development Jobs?

I share information about working abroad in this BLOG, and have in past posts mentioned a variety of agencies that look for consultants or volunteers ranging from Peace Corps, and British Council to CUSO International and Catalyste+. In scrolling through LinkedIn this morning, I came across the following story by Anthony Stokes who invited readers to repost. That is what I am doing.

Hard to find a job in development?

One of these 9 links could change your life:

Social media is not a bad starting point for international development job opportunities at a difficult time. There are also many websites with job boards, communities and advice.

1️⃣ https://www.impactpool.org

“We gather top talent to solve global challenges”

Global development, humanitarian aid, peace and security

2️⃣ devex.com/jobs/search

Online community of global development professionals
6,000+ jobs on “the world’s largest development job board”

3️⃣ https://reliefweb.int/jobs

“Humanitarian information on global crises & disasters”

With over 2,000 humanitarian jobs

4️⃣ https://lnkd.in/eXeuFXHV

Jobs, scholarships and grants “to empower often marginalised communities, particularly in the Global South”

Plus opinion, articles, videos

5️⃣ Opportunitiesforyouth.org

“Informational online portal created for ambitious young adults across the world”

Jobs, conferences, scholarships, grants

6️⃣ Devnetjobs.org

International development jobs and consulting opportunities

Plus paid membership access to “member-only jobs”

7️⃣ wianetwork.com/jobs

“The global headquarters for ambitious women in international affairs”

Membership platform, community, job listings

8️⃣ idealist.org

Opportunities spanning nonprofits, social-impact businesses, corporate social responsibility initiatives

9️⃣ https://bit.ly/4jVi9eD

A “crowd-sourced” list of websites, consulting firms and coaches

And, now let me share a reminder about my book “Overseas Adventures – From Afghanistan to Zambia and Points In-Between”.

Overseas Adventures – North Star Skills for Development

The link above to take you to the page to order my book from me directly.

Or you can order it from Amazon by using this link.

Amazon.com : Overseas Adventures – From Afghanistan to Zambia and Points In-Between

GOOD LUCK in YOUR JOB SEARCH and GOOD READING.