Since entrants into the development sector typically find their first jobs with an NGO, it may be useful to indicate what kinds of positions are available. In fact, the number of different types of job roles is this sector is as varied as in any other sector. Broadly speaking they can be categorized as follows:
Policy and research
Usually head office-based. This is probably the most competitive area and attracts largely Masters and PhD students. Normally successful candidates have previous experience gained through volunteering and internships. Experience in the field is a distinct asset.
Fundraising and campaign strategy
Most often found in NGOs, but also in think tanks and some international organisations (e.g., UNICEF). Fundraising in particular has a poor image amongst new graduates, due in part to stereotypes of rattling tins on street corners. In reality, most fundraising jobs are professional roles of crucial importance to the organisation, and rely on innovative fundraising ideas and events designed and run by organised individuals who are able to work well as part of a wider team of colleagues or volunteers.
Advocacy
Advocates help people who are struggling with an issue to understand their human and civil rights. The advocate would present the client with different resolution options and empower them to make a change, through a number of different methods; including petitions, marches, protests, talks, reports, etc. Although no particular qualifications are required for advocacy a motivation for and an understanding of the work is required. As there are many forms of advocacy, including social justice, budget, bureaucratic, health, media to name but a few, a genuine interest in a particular area can help with applications. Advocacy organisations exist at the individual, local, national and international level. A database of advocacy services can be found at Action for Advocacy.
Media and communications
Responsible for how the organisation presents itself to the outside world. Direct entry is possible but it may be more feasible to transfer across from other sectors with relevant experience or to have gained media experience in the public or private sector. In smaller charities this role is sometimes combined with a fundraising or marketing role.
Programme
Essentially project management roles are usually field-based. Increasingly these roles are being filled by nationals of the particular countries where the programmes are being run. Some programme liaison roles can be found in head offices.
Technical specialist
Usually field-based roles which require technical expertise. The most common roles tend to be in engineering (especially water and sanitation) or health (HIV/AIDS, nutrition, public health). Most candidates have a relevant technical qualification and previous field experience.
Support roles
Human resources (HR), IT and finance roles exist in all but the smallest organisations. Many entrants to these roles gained their initial experience in other sectors and then moved into international development.
Useful websites
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LSE Volunteering Centre - offers advice on volunteering and sources and advertises a wide range of voluntary opportunities on LSE CareerHub.
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The Communications Initiative Network - a specialist website that acts as a portal for a wide range of communication actors in the field of social and economic development. Also has job vacancies.
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Devex - international development jobs and consulting.
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DevNet Jobs - opportunities.
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Bond - the UK membership body for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in international development. Established in 1993, Bond now has 370 members.