Program officer Jobs in Markham, ON

This Volunteer Placement is Located in: Kingston, Jamaica

Start Date: June 2026

Placement Length: 5 months

Language Requirements: English Level 4-Advanced

Open to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada only

The Volunteer’s Role

The primary objective of this placement is to enhance the capabilities of the Caribbean Vulnerable Communities (CVC) in analyzing and interpreting research outcomes related to the lived experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Caribbean. As a volunteer, you will assist the team in reviewing, compiling, and analyzing a range of research documents and findings through a gender-responsive perspective. Additionally, you will provide support to our partner, the Eastern Caribbean Alliance for Gender Equality (ECADE), in similar initiatives.

As a volunteer, you will:

• Perform a review of existing research focused on the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the Caribbean.
• Assist in advocacy efforts by utilizing research outcomes.

Essential Requirements:

• University degree in social/political sciences, international development, human rights, gender studies, social work, law, public policy, or related field

Essential Background:

• At least 3 years of proven experience in roles related to advancing gender equality and diversity, including matters affecting the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Experience collaborating with civil society organizations.
• Proficient in data analysis and measurement techniques.

What’s in it for YOU? A life-changing experience!

About Us

Cuso International (Cuso) is an international cooperation and development organization based in Canada that works to create social and economic opportunities for equity-deserving groups. Building on over sixty years of impactful work, we address global challenges by tackling the root causes of inequality. Working alongside our partners, we are focused on efforts to improve economic resilience, advance equity and inclusion for all, and deliver progress on climate action. We believe that by sharing skills, we can build better futures. Guided by our values of courage, inclusion, sustainability and accountability, Cuso combines innovative strategies and enduring partnerships to create lasting, meaningful change in communities across Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada.

Project: BUILDING BRICKS - Building Balanced, Rights-Centered, Inclusive, Cohesive and Knowledgeable Societies

Partner: Caribbean Vulnerable Communities

Volunteer Support and Requirements

Support Package

Cuso International provides a comprehensive support package to ensure volunteers maintain a modest and healthy lifestyle aligned with local standards. This includes:

• Monthly living allowance
• Accommodation
• Health insurance (including required vaccinations and antimalarial medication)
• Round-trip airfare and visa/work permit costs
• Pre-placement, in-country and reintegration training (along with access to self-directed materials and online resources)
• Ongoing local support
• Access to the Employee Assistance Program during and after placement

Selection and Screening

If you are shortlisted, you will need to:

• Confirm passport or permanent resident details for travel
• Provide two professional references and one personal reference
• Complete a language assessment during the initial phone interview
• Pass a police check and medical clearance before departure
• Comply with anti-terrorism checks
• Agree to uphold the Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) policy and Code of Conduct

Residency and Citizenship: Candidates are responsible for confirming how volunteering internationally may affect their citizenship or residency status. Canadian Permanent Residents should verify requirements with Immigration Canada before travel.

Inclusion and Accessibility: Cuso International welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and equity-deserving groups. We provide reasonable accommodations throughout recruitment and placement. If you have accessibility needs, please contact us for support.

Ready to Make a Difference? Apply to volunteer today!