Youth and Gender Environmental Education

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Youth and Gender Environmental Education Project Officer

Work Location: Kaysone city, Savannakhet Province

(This position is available to LAO nationals only)

About CRS

Catholic Relief Services is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. CRS works to save, protect, and transform lives in need in more than 100 countries, without regard to race, religion or nationality. CRS’ relief and development work is accomplished through programs of emergency response, HIV, health, agriculture, education, microfinance and peacebuilding.

Job Summary:

Empowering to Act for Circular Transition in Plastics in Lao PDR (EMP-ACT) is a four-year project (2025-2028) funded by the EU and CRS, that will support Lao PDR’s efforts to reduce single-use plastic consumption and prevent plastic pollution, in line with national strategies like the National Plastic Action Plan 2024-2030.

The project will be implemented in Savannakhet and Khammuane provinces. It seeks to enhance awareness and participation of consumers in reducing single-use plastic use, increase availability of sustainable plastic alternatives, and strengthen public sector support for plastic transition through policy dialogue.

The Youth and Gender Environmental Education Project Officer will work closely with associations, universities, and Research Institute for Educational Sciences (RIES) to support the design and implementation of eco-challenges and other youth-led environmental initiatives. The officer will provide overall technical guidance and support for environmental education activities and aligned with EMPACT objectives. This role will also facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, contribute to curriculum and educational material development, and support monitoring and evaluation to strengthen the quality and sustainability of environmental education interventions.

Roles and Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the design and delivery of youth-focused environmental education initiatives, including eco-challenges, workshops, campaigns, and interactive learning modules.
• Promote innovative engagement strategies using digital platforms, social media campaigns, and community-based participatory methods.
• Collaborate with schools, universities, youth clubs, and community groups to promote environmental awareness and sustainable behaviors.
• Support the creation of educational materials, including posters, booklets, digital content, and interactive learning tools.
• Plan and organize youth engagement events, workshops, and campaigns promoting sustainable practices and reducing plastic pollution.
• Mentor youth groups to actively participate in environmental campaigns and community action projects.
• Track and report progress on youth and gender engagement in environmental education activities.
• Contribute to the development of program reports, policy briefs, and learning documents.
• Liaise with local NGOs, government agencies, schools, and community organizations to strengthen program implementation.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred. Degree in Environmental Science, Education, Gender Studies, Sustainable Social Development, Development, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in environmental education, youth engagement, or gender-focused development programs., preferably with an NGO or development agency.
• Experience in curriculum development, educational material production, and training delivery.
• Additional experience may substitute for some education.
• Proven ability to integrate gender-sensitive approaches into programs.
• Strong facilitation, mentoring, and community engagement skills.
• Proficiency in MS Windows and MS Office packages (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) required

Required Languages – Fluency in written and spoken Lao is required. Excellent proficiency in reading and writing English is required.

Travel – Must be willing and able to travel up to 20%.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Observation, active listening and analysis skills with ability to make sound judgment
• Good relationship management skills and the ability to work closely with field staff and local government partners

• Attention to details, accuracy and timeliness in executing assigned responsibilities
• Proactive, results-oriented and service-oriented
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of circular economic principles, solid waste management systems
• Strong analytical and communication skills, with ability to prepare concise technical reports and presentations.
• Experience in digital content creation and social media campaigns for youth engagement.
• Familiarity with participatory learning approaches and experiential education methods.
• Strong networks with youth groups, women’s associations, and community-based organizations.

Agency-wide Competencies (for all CRS Staff)

These are rooted in the mission, values, and guiding principles of CRS and used by each staff member to fulfill his or her responsibilities and achieve the desired results.

• Integrity
• Continuous Improvement & Innovation
• Build Relationships
• Developed Talent
• Strategic Mindset
• Accountability & Stewardship

Supervisory Responsibilities

No supervisory responsibilities.

Working Conditions

Based in Savannakhet Province , with occasional travel to Thakhek or Vientiane for coordination, training, or project meetings as required.

Key Working Relationships

Internal: Project Manager, Program Manager II Program Quality, MEAL Manager, MEAL Officer.

External: Government partners, NGO partners, medium and small business, waste management facilities, education institutions (including schools and universities)

APPLICATION INFORMATION: To apply for this position, please submit an application letter stating your expression of interest along with your most current CV by emails to: LA_HR@crs.org.

Closing date for applications: December 05, 2025, Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

CRS’ talent acquisition procedures reflect our commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation.

CRS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.