Lifelong Learning Project Officer
The Project Officer will work with individuals on a one-to-one basis, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Core Competencies/Skills & KnowledgeESSENTIAL/MINIMUMJob Title:Project Officer – Life Long Learning Reporting To:Learning & Enterprise ManagerEmployer:Donegal Local Development CLGMain Purpose of Role:
The Project Officer will deliver actions under Goal 2 of the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), with a focus on supporting lifelong learning to enable individuals and communities to improve their skills, confidence, and participation in education, training, and personal development.
The role involves engaging with individuals from SICAP target groups within marginalised communities, including New Arrivals, Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTP), and other International Protection Applicants (IPA).
The Project Officer will work with individuals on a one-to-one basis, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. They will devise, coordinate, and deliver training and education programmes, supporting clients who have experienced educational disadvantage to engage with lifelong learning opportunities and progress using a community development approach.
The role prioritises inclusion and integration, ensuring that all supports and services align with SICAP objectives. This position is subject to the continued availability of funding to support New Arrivals.
In carrying out their duties, the Project Officer will consistently demonstrate DLDC's values of respect, community, collaboration, inclusion, and integrity in all interactions with colleagues, clients, and partner organisations.
Conditions of Work:
1. The main office base will be in Donegal Town - providing supports and services to individuals in the community, including those in accommodation settings across the catchment area.
2. A probationary period of 6 months will apply and performance and supports will be discussed and reviewed formally as part ongoing one -to-ones.
3. This is a fixed-term, full-time position (35 hours per week) subject to New Arrivals funding until 31/12/2026.
4. Benefits include: Eligibility for a 6% employer-contributed pension scheme; 25 days annual leave & other leave options; Flexible working arrangements are available; Hybrid working arrangements may be requested upon completion of probation; Travel and subsistence allowance; Learning and development opportunities; Employee Assistance Programme.
SalaryProject Officer entry salary €36,000Main Duties
1
Programme Delivery:
5. Meet clients on a one-to-one basis to support them in their development of personal progression plans and long-term goals, and to identify appropriate actions to achieve these goals.
6. Manage a client caseload efficiently and effectively in line with good governance, company policies, and funder requirements
7. Provide direct supports, guidance, and training to SICAP target groups, including soft skills and wellbeing programmes that enhance readiness for learning and progression towards employability.
8. Identify, develop, and deliver new projects and initiatives based on assessed educational needs of target groups, including unaccredited training, one-to-one coaching, sourcing accredited education and training opportunities, and securing appropriate funding pathways.
9. Collaborate with internal DLDC teams to deliver tailored lifelong learning solutions that address the specific needs of SICAP target groups.
10. Liaise with ETBs, SOLAS, DSP, and other public and private education and training providers to support client progression.
11. Partner with education and training providers to respond effectively to the educational needs of unemployed and disadvantaged individuals and communities.
12. Develop and maintain inter-agency networks and education/training provider links across the catchment area.
13. Proactively promote the SICAP strategy and supports through information sessions, outreach activities, site visits, and local media.
14. Provide accurate information and guidance to target groups on SICAP and other relevant supports and funding opportunities.
15. Maintain a database of clients and groups within DLDC's catchment area.
16. Ensure the delivery of high-quality initiatives that align with SICAP objectives and outcomes.
17. Prepare and provide oral and written reports to line management, relevant Working Groups, and the Board as required.
18. Participate in company Working Groups, including the SICAP Working Group, and attend Board meetings as appropriate.
19. Carry out administrative duties as required to support programme delivery.
20. Demonstrate flexibility by being willing to work evenings and/or weekends as required.
21. Show a willingness to take on additional duties as required in line with organisational needs.
2
Administration and Financial Management
22. Ensure files are set up for individual clients and projects, including all necessary documentation is on file for all actions; this includes up to date personal progression plans and appropriate file maintenance on IRIS.
23. Maintain accurate client and group records, including updating IRIS, the Distance Travelled Tool, CRM system and other relevant systems.
24. Prepare written and verbal reports on Goal 2 on a monthly basis for Working Group and Board when required.
25. Be responsible for all issues in relation to caseload delivery, including adherence to travel and subsistence.
26. Liaise with the Finance and Administration Department in relation to any queries which arise with regards to payments or general file administration.
27. Respond to any matters as requested by management, Head of Operations or CEO.
28. Manage special projects as required.
29. Represent the company in public specific issues.
30. Carry out any other duties as requested by Management
3
General Duties
1
Relevant Training &
Community Development
Experience
The Officer will have a minimum of three years' relevant experience delivering training and learning supports to adults in a similar or community-based environment. They will have strong knowledge of referral pathways and education/training opportunities, and experience providing one-to-one support to young people and hard-to-reach adults.
2.
Interpersonal & Liaison Skills
The Officer will have excellent interpersonal, communication & coaching skills. They will be required to liaise effectively and efficiently with internal DLDC teams as well as agencies, groups and training providers. The Officer will be required to act as a positive and contributing member of the wider staff team within DLDC.
3.
Project Management SkillsThey must demonstrate clearly experience of organising, managing and prioritising own workload. They will have excellent time management and organisation skills. Strong administration together with a good working knowledge of the standard suite of business- related software and IT packages is required.
4.
Motivational SkillsThe Officer will be required to be a flexible, motivated self-starter who can communicate effectively. The officer will work well as part of a team and also on their own initiative. They will have good report writing and presentation skills.
5.
Communication Skills
The Officer will have experience in building strong working relationships with organisations and communities, combined with excellent communication and listening skills. They will demonstrate strong verbal and written abilities, one-to-one coaching, and group facilitation skills, and will act with confidentiality and discretion at all times.
6.
Problem Solving SkillsThe Officer will have the ability to analyse complex situations, identify underlying issues, and develop effective solutions to overcome challenges or achieve goals.
7.
Qualification/ExperienceA recognized and relevant Third Level qualification and / OR previous demonstrated relevant training experience in a similar environment, together with a proven track record in the delivery of training supports to adults, along with a commitment to integrating principles of equality, social inclusion, and anti-poverty measures into community development practice.
8.
'Other'A clean, current driving licence with access to own mode of transport is essential in order to service clients.
Core Competencies
Desirable
31. Familiarity with using CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software.
32. Excellent knowledge of SICAP supports.
33. Experience of working in a supportive capacity on a one-to-one basis with young people and hard to reach adults.
DLDC reserve the right to enhance criteria, depending on the response to the advertisement.
A panel may be formed from this recruitment process.