Community Impact Specialist

About Sayari Earth 

Sayari Earth is a mission-driven ecosystem engineering company partnering with people to sustain life on planet Earth. We develop high-integrity nature-based carbon removal projects that restore ecosystems, and strengthen rural livelihoods.

Our work in the Central Karoo focuses on ensuring that previously disadvantaged communities are not only included in restoration efforts, but are active participants and beneficiaries in emerging carbon markets.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and grounded Community Impact Specialist to lead community engagement and mobilisation efforts in the Central Karoo.

This is a people-first role focused on building trust, mobilising communities, and translating project opportunities into real, tangible outcomes for local people.

You will work at the intersection of communities, NGOs, government, and the private sector, helping connect local stakeholders to nature-based carbon markets while improving livelihoods on the ground.

This role requires someone who is:

• A natural community mobiliser.
• Comfortable engaging across different social and professional environments.
• Able to plan, communicate, and drive outcomes independently.

Key Responsibilities

Community Engagement & Mobilisation

• Engage directly with farm workers, small-scale farmers, and local communities.
• Mobilise groups and drive participation in project activities.
• Build trust and maintain strong relationships with community leaders and stakeholders.
• Facilitate meetings, workshops, and community sessions.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Coordination

• Work with NGOs, community-based organisations, municipalities, and government stakeholders.
• Support coordination between communities and Sayari Earth’s internal land management and science teams.
• Strengthen local networks to support long-term project success.

Livelihoods & Impact Delivery

• Support initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods in previously disadvantaged communities.
• Assist in connecting communities to opportunities within carbon projects.
• Contribute to the design and rollout of benefit-sharing and community participation models.

Planning, Data & Reporting

• Plan and track community engagement activities.
• Collect and manage basic field data using digital tools (e.g., forms, tablets, spreadsheets).
• Prepare simple reports and summaries of engagement and outcomes.
• Maintain clear and organized records of community interactions.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• National Senior Certificate (Grade 12).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, able to engage confidently with diverse groups.
• Proven ability to mobilise people and drive participation.
• Experience working with communities, customers, or groups (formal or informal environments).
• Ability to plan, organize, and follow through on activities.
• Basic computer literacy (email, Word, Excel, mobile data tools).
• Fluency in Afrikaans and English.
• Valid driver's license.
• Willingness to relocate to and be based in Beaufort West.

Preferred

• Experience in community development, facilitation, or outreach work.
• Experience working in NGOs, local business, or service environments.
• Exposure to agriculture, conservation, or rural contexts.
• Additional local language skills (e.g., isiXhosa).

Who This Role Is Suited For

This role is ideal for someone who:

• Is from (or understands) local community contexts in the Western Cape / Karoo.
• Is a strong communicator and relationship builder.
• Wants to transition into more meaningful, impact-driven work.
• Is currently working in a professional environment (e.g., business, NGO, retail, services) and looking to grow.
• Is confident working independently and taking initiative.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary.
• A meaningful role with real community impact.
• Opportunity to grow into a specialised impact and sustainability career.
• Exposure to climate finance and carbon markets.
• A supportive, mission-driven team.

Why Join Sayari Earth?

• Be part of a new model of community-led climate solutions.
• Work on projects that restore land and improve livelihoods.
• Play a direct role in shaping how impact is delivered in the Central Karoo.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a tailored cover letter to aloha@sayari.earth with the subject line: Community Impact Specialist Application – [Your Name].

Your cover letter should briefly explain:

• Your experience working with people or communities.
• Why you are interested in this role.
• Your willingness to be based in Beaufort West.

We warmly welcome applications from individuals who bring diverse perspectives and lived experiences.

Due to the high volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.