Community Development Officer - Part Time

Job Title Community Development Officer Location Belfast Salary £14,238.65 per annum (£28,477.30 full-time equivalent) Contract Type Part-time, 19 hours per week / 2.5 days per week, offered on a job-share basis. Fixed-term contract to 31 March 2027, with continuation into 2027/28 subject to funding.

The Role Charity Jobs NI is delighted to be representing Market Development Association (MDA) in the recruitment of a Community Development Jobs NI is delighted to be representing Market Development Association (MDA) in the recruitment of a Community Development Officer. This is a varied, hands-on community development role supporting MDAs work across the Market area of Belfast, with a particular focus on community events, resident engagement, volunteer development, policy research and local regeneration priorities.

Working closely with residents, volunteers, the MDA Committee, statutory agencies and community partners, you will help develop practical projects, strengthen local participation and build positive relationships across the community. The role will also play an important part in MDAs involvement in major cultural and community initiatives including Féile na ha Bhann and Fleadh Cheoil na hireann, alongside developing the annual Market Festival programme.

With its blend of community engagement, events, volunteering, regeneration and project delivery, this opportunity may particularly suit someone currently working as a Community Development Officer, Community Engagement Officer, Community Project Officer, Community Development Worker, Community Coordinator, Outreach Officer, Volunteer Coordinator, Community Events Officer, Community Regeneration Officer, Project Coordinator or similar community-focused role. About Market Development Association (MDA) Market Development Association has been working at the heart of Belfasts Market community since 1995, promoting the wellbeing of local residents and helping to create a vibrant and sustainable community where people want to live, work and socialise.

Using a community development and rights-based approach, MDA works alongside residents, statutory agencies, government departments and other partners to address local priorities, encourage active citizenship and support positive social and economic change.

Key Responsibilities Develop and coordinate MDAs Market Festival plan, including activities, venues, budgets and funding requirements. Work with the MDA Committee, volunteers and partners to co-design and deliver inclusive community events. Support Irish cultural activity across MDAs festival and events programme. Coordinate MDA and Market community involvement in Féile na ha Bhann and Fleadh Cheoil na hireann. Build effective relationships with Belfast City Council, An Droichead and other relevant cultural and community partners.

Organise volunteer recruitment activity and workshops to strengthen community participation. Identify, develop and pursue suitable funding opportunities for community projects and events. Provide a welcoming and professional point of contact for residents through MDAs front office and direct enquiries appropriately. Review the Belfast Agenda and relevant council and government policies, identifying opportunities connected to MDAs work. Produce clear research, briefings, recommendations and written updates for MDA management and Committee.

Support data analysis and wider work relating to the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector. Develop and maintain MDAs volunteer database, including training and accreditation records. Research best practice in volunteer recruitment, induction, training and development. Help develop a volunteer training and accreditation structure, including relevant entry-level training. Maintain accurate records, action plans and reports. Work collaboratively with residents, volunteers, colleagues and external partners while promoting equality, inclusion and good relations.

The role requires some flexibility, including occasional evening or weekend work linked to meetings, festivals, volunteer workshops and community engagement. Person Specification / About You We are looking for an approachable, organised and community-focused individual who can combine practical project delivery with relationship building, research and coordination. Essential experience and skills include:

Experience of festival, event or project planning.

Experience of volunteer coordination, training or accreditation systems. Experience working with communities, residents, volunteers or community organisations. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage respectfully with a wide range of people. Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities, meetings and deadlines. Ability to produce clear written plans, reports, briefings and recommendations. Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel and digital record-keeping systems.

Understanding of confidentiality,…