Want to Work in the NGO Sector? Here’s What You Need to Know
Working in the NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) sector in Kenya is a dream for many job seekers—and for good reason. It’s a chance to make real impact, earn a competitive salary, and work in diverse, multicultural environments.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How do I get a job in an NGO?”, this guide is for you. We break down what NGOs are looking for, popular roles, qualifications you need, and where to apply.
🌍 Why the NGO Sector Is So Popular in Kenya
Kenya is a regional hub for international development and humanitarian organizations. Nairobi alone hosts dozens of global NGOs, foundations, and United Nations agencies.
✅ Salaries are often higher than government or private sector
✅ Exposure to international best practices
✅ Networking with global professionals
✅ Work that directly improves lives (health, education, climate, refugees, etc.)
🧭 Top NGO Roles You Can Apply For in Kenya
Here are the most in-demand job categories for NGOs hiring in Kenya:
1. Project Officers / Coordinators
Manages and implements specific projects, such as education, health, or peace-building initiatives.
Typical Requirements:
Degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, or related
1–3 years of field/project experience
Knowledge of proposal writing & reporting
2. Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Officers
Tracks and reports on the success of programs. Very data-driven.
Required Skills:
M&E tools (SPSS, KoboToolbox, Power BI)
Strong analytical and reporting skills
Degree in Statistics, Economics, or Public Health
3. Communications & Advocacy Officers
Handles media relations, campaigns, social media, and stakeholder engagement.
Ideal For: Journalism, PR, and Communication graduates
4. Finance & Grants Officers
Manages budgets, donor funds, and financial reporting for programs.
Ideal For: CPA/ACCA graduates or Finance/Accounting degree holders
5. Humanitarian Field Officers / Emergency Response
Deployed during natural disasters, conflicts, and crises (e.g. floods, refugee support).
Skills Required: Crisis management, logistics, community engagement
🎓 What Qualifications Do You Need to Work in an NGO?
While each NGO is different, here’s what most look for:
✅ A degree (Social Work, Public Health, International Relations, Environmental Science, or Finance)
✅ Experience through internships, volunteering, or attachments
✅ Good command of English (and Swahili)
✅ Soft skills: Communication, empathy, adaptability, teamwork
✅ Computer literacy: Excel, Word, and data tools (like Kobo, ODK, SPSS)
💡 Pro tip: Even if you don’t have NGO experience, volunteering counts. Join Red Cross, church missions, or community-based organizations to gain exposure.
🗂️ How to Structure Your NGO CV
Use a format that highlights experience and skills over just qualifications.
Include:
Profile Summary
Relevant Skills (e.g. proposal writing, report generation, stakeholder engagement)
Volunteer Work
Work Experience
Education
Referees (preferably people in the development sector)
👉 Download a free NGO CV template on www.dreamjob.co.ke
🧑💻 Where to Find NGO Jobs in Kenya (Updated for 2025)
Here are trusted platforms to monitor daily:
www.dreamjob.co.ke – Curated NGO job listings
ReliefWeb.int – Global humanitarian job board
Idealist.org – NGO and nonprofit jobs
DevNetJobs.org – International development jobs
BrighterMonday Kenya – NGO category
LinkedIn – Follow organizations like UNICEF, World Vision, Mercy Corps
📣 Top NGOs Actively Hiring in Kenya (2025)
Amref Health Africa
World Vision Kenya
UNICEF Kenya
Red Cross Society of Kenya
Plan International
Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC)
International Rescue Committee (IRC)
Save the Children Kenya
UNHCR
African Wildlife Foundation
✅ Pro tip: Set up job alerts and follow these organizations on LinkedIn to apply early.
🙋 Want to Break Into the NGO Sector with No Experience?
Start here:
Volunteer with a local NGO or CBO
Take free online courses (see below)
Create a LinkedIn profile tailored to the development field
Join forums like Development Kenya on Facebook
Get involved in university clubs or church groups that run outreach programs
🎓 Free Online Courses to Boost Your NGO CV
Humanitarian Response – Kaya Connect
Project Management for NGOs – [Coursera or Philanthropy University]
M&E Fundamentals – [OpenLearn or Udemy]
Proposal Writing and Fundraising – [FutureLearn]
💬 Final Thoughts: Your Passion Can Become Your Profession
The NGO world is one of purpose, growth, and real-world impact. If you’re passionate about healthcare, human rights, education, climate action, or gender equality, there’s a place for you in this sector.
Your journey starts with one small step—whether that’s volunteering, taking an online course, or applying for that internship.
✅ Ready to Start?
🔹 Visit www.dreamjob.co.ke for real-time NGO job listings in Kenya
🔹 Download our Free NGO CV Template
🔹 Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly NGO job alerts
Your dream NGO job is out there. Let’s help you find it. 💼🌱
