Community Development Specialist in El Salvador

Job Description

We are looking for U.S. citizens who want to be a part of something bigger and are willing to go the distance to make a difference. Is that you?

In more than 60 countries, Peace Corps Volunteers are putting their purpose, passion, and skills to work in partnership with welcoming host communities – growing, teaching, learning, and making change together.

As a Peace Corps Volunteer, you'll live and work alongside community members on locally prioritized projects, receiving a stipend and other support as you immerse yourself in a new culture. You’ll build relationships, exchange knowledge, and help transform lives for generations.

About the project

Entrepreneurs and small businesses in El Salvador are seeking to build the necessary skills to successfully launch or grow their enterprises. 

The Government of El Salvador has named economic growth and tourism as national priorities, with a commitment to expanding access to financial and educational support to underserved populations. The government’s strategic plan is designed to modernize infrastructure and boost the economy by developing policies aimed at economic and social growth. Between 2019 and 2024, international tourism increased by 89%, which indicated new economic opportunities. Crucial to the economic growth of El Salvador, micro and small enterprises (MSEs) represent 96% of all businesses with over half of those MSEs led by women. MSEs face significant challenges, including limited access to financing, high informality rates, and barriers to formalization. Digitalization also represents a crucial area for improvement in this dynamic sector, and continued efforts are needed to advance this aspect.

As a Community Development Specialist, you will work with youth 18-29 to develop the skills to strengthen personal finance, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills. You will equip business owners and entrepreneurs-in-the-making to create savings groups, market goods, and develop new products. Your collective efforts will improve individual livelihoods and help the country meet its growing tourism needs.

Learn more about what Volunteers do in country by visiting our El Salvador project page.