Community Economic Development Specialist

Communities in Fiji are seeking experienced business professionals and recent graduates to help expand economic opportunities and build related skills for improved livelihoods.

Fiji’s economy relies heavily on tourism and agriculture. Therefore, the government is working to expand economic opportunities and create more jobs. While there is an abundance of resources in-country, aspiring entrepreneurs lack the business and financial management skills to start and grow successful businesses. Additional challenges include the distance between rural communities and urban business centers, limited internet access, and ongoing emigration. Cultural expectations to support extended family can also make it difficult for entrepreneurs to save or reinvest their earnings into new business ideas.

As a Community Economic Development Facilitator, you will work alongside village leaders and community-based groups—such as women’s and youth groups—to strengthen project planning, business development, and management skills. You will also support individuals to develop practical financial management skills and turn innovative ideas into viable economic activities.

Associate degree in any field and at least two years of full-time, post-high school work experience (from any combination of roles).
OR
Bachelor's degree in any field.
OR
High school diploma or GED and four years of full-time, post-high school work (from any combination of roles).

Volunteers live in small, simple, independent housing in rural villages. Many homes do not have electricity, and villages often have inconsistent connectivity and limited accessibility.

Volunteer sites are predominantly inland hill and mountain villages on Fiji’s two larger islands, while some are on more remote, smaller islands that require an additional boat or ferry ride to access. Volunteer sites may be up to three hours from a larger town by public transit.

Receive comprehensive training in the iTaukei language and build proficiency through daily conversations.
Gain hands-on experience teaching money management best practices and launching income-generating activities.
Learn to navigate the challenges faced by rural communities and employ practical strategies to establish and sustain businesses.

Conduct participatory community assessments to identify priorities, available resources, and economic opportunities.
Develop and facilitate trainings on project planning and management, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship.
Support existing village groups or the creation of new groups to address development priorities.
Identify income-generating opportunities that utilize available resources and skills.
Support the development of microenterprises and the expansion of existing small businesses.
Assist in identifying potential donors and the development of funding proposals.

You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as supporting a local school’s literacy project or sanitation and hygiene initiatives.

As a Community Development Specialist, you will be trained on effective techniques for participatory community assessments, project design and management, and personal money management. Peace Corps/Fiji will teach you the iTaukei language and culture to help you comfortably live in and connect with the community.

After 11 weeks of training, you will move to a rural community where you will collaborate with individuals and community-based organizations to assess economic needs and develop long-term solutions that utilize on community resources.