Location: Cape TownContract Type: Permanent (subject to continued funding and probation)Start Date: 01 March 2026, or as soon as possible About the Organisation The is a leading non-profit, non-governmental organisation committed to advancing community-centred development in South Africa. DAG works to address deep-rooted economic, social, and spatial inequalities, with a particular focus on housing, land, and urban development. Through research, advocacy, training, and partnerships, DAG supports communities to engage meaningfully in development processes and to influence policies that shape equitable and inclusive cities. Role Overview DAG is seeking a Project Officer to support its Civic Action Hub Programme, based in Cape Town. The Project Officer will contribute to research, policy advocacy, training, consultancy, and technical work related to housing, land, and urban development. The role is well suited to a motivated development professional with strong analytical skills, an interest in urban justice, and the ability to translate complex technical information into accessible formats for diverse audiences. The Project Officer will work closely with programme teams, partners, and communities, receiving guidance and support while gradually taking on leadership responsibilities. Role Purpose The Project Officer is responsible for supporting DAG’s programme objectives by: Contributing to research, policy analysis, and advocacy initiatives Providing technical and analytical support, including GIS-based mapping Supporting training, capacity-building, and community engagement activities Assisting with consultancy projects and organisational planning processes The role requires a balance of technical competence, communication skills, and a strong commitment to social justice and participatory development. Key Responsibilities Policy, Research, and Advocacy The Project Officer will: Support research activities related to housing, land, and urban development Assist in analysing policies and developing evidence-based policy proposals Contribute to advocacy strategies aimed at influencing planning and development outcomes Support lobbying and engagement with government, civil society, and community stakeholders Research and Partnerships Key responsibilities include: Participating in research projects across DAG’s programmes Supporting partnership development with civil society organisations, communities, and institutions Assisting with stakeholder engagement and collaborative initiatives Training and Capacity Building The Project Officer will: Support the conceptualisation, development, and delivery of training programmes Assist in facilitating workshops, webinars, and learning events Develop user-friendly training and learning materials for diverse audiences Translate complex subject matter into accessible educational content Technical and GIS Support Technical responsibilities include: Providing support for mapping and spatial analysis work Using GIS tools to support research, advocacy, and programme activities Interpreting technical planning documents and simplifying them for non-technical audiences Consultancy Support The Project Officer will contribute to consultancy work by: Supporting the preparation of tenders and proposals Assisting with contract negotiation and project implementation Contributing technical and analytical inputs to consultancy assignments Programme and Organisational Support The role also includes: Assisting with annual planning and budgeting processes Supporting project monitoring, reporting, and documentation Contributing to organisational learning and programme development Communication, Visibility, and Compliance The Project Officer will: Support organisational visibility through media, marketing, and advocacy materials Assist with internal systems compliance, ICT protocols, and reporting standards Perform additional duties as required by management in line with organisational needs Required Qualifications and Experience Education and Experience The ideal candidate will have: A relevant university degree or diploma in a built environment or social development field, such as: Urban Planning Human Settlements Development Social Development Social Anthropology Appropriate professional experience may be considered in place of formal qualifications At least three years’ experience in training and research related to housing, land, and/or urban development Technical and Professional Skills Candidates should demonstrate: Experience using GIS software and spatial data analysis tools (e.g. QGIS, ArcGIS) Ability to interpret technical planning documents and translate them into accessible language Experience developing intellectually rigorous content for diverse audiences Working knowledge of: Housing, land, and urban development policy frameworks Research and training methodologies Development sector dynamics Core Competencies Essential competencies include: Basic technical understanding of housing delivery processes Proficiency in MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel (intermediate level) Strong organisational, time management, and budgeting skills Ability to plan independently, manage priorities, and meet deadlines Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with limited supervision Creative thinking and use of initiative Ability to work collaboratively and earn the trust of colleagues and partners Diplomacy, discretion, and confidence in external engagement Application Process Interested candidates should: Review the role requirements carefully before applying Submit the following documents by 16:00 on Friday, 16 January 2026: A motivational letter outlining relevant experience A CV Three contactable references Applications should be emailed to: Alicia@dag.org.za Additional notes: DAG is an equal opportunity organisation committed to diversity and employment equity The position is based in Cape Town; relocation costs will not be covered Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within three weeks of the closing date DAG thanks all applicants for their interest and commitment to advancing equitable urban development. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.