IT Mentor | Support Humanitarian Services in Timor-Leste
ICT
Closing date: 10/24/2026
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Connecting People – Transforming Lives.
Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) connects skilled volunteers with organisations and communities across the Pacific and beyond to support locally identified aspirations and achieve sustainable change.
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role This is your opportunity to become a VSA Volunteer and use your IT expertise to strengthen the systems and technology that support humanitarian services across Timor-Leste.
We are seeking an experienced Information Technology (IT) Mentor to work alongside Cruz Vermelha de Timor-Leste (CVTL) , the Red Cross National Society of Timor-Leste.
Based in Dili, you'll work collaboratively with staff to assess, improve, and strengthen the organisation's IT infrastructure, network systems, data management practices, and overall operational efficiency. Your work will help ensure staff have reliable systems and tools that support their vital work with vulnerable communities throughout the country.
This assignment is for 12 months , with the possibility of extension.
VSA provides support by funding and organising flights, visas, insurance, accommodation, living allowance, and utilities for the duration of your assignment.
Why Volunteer with VSA? This is an opportunity to combine your professional expertise with meaningful international development work.
As a VSA Volunteer you'll receive:
- Flights to and from Timor-Leste
- Furnished accommodation
- Living allowance and utilities
- Comprehensive insurance cover
- Visa support
- Ongoing professional and personal support
- Opportunities to further develop your leadership, mentoring, and cross-cultural skills
- The chance to contribute to meaningful humanitarian work while experiencing life in Timor-Leste
Ngā tino Pūkenga/Wheako | Essential Skills and Experience
We're looking for someone who can bring both technical expertise and a collaborative approach to mentoring and capacity building.
Ideally, you will have:
- Experience in IT infrastructure, systems administration, or network management
- Experience working with Microsoft 365 and cloud-based technologies
- Knowledge of server management, data backup, and recovery systems
- Experience supporting cybersecurity, network security, or IT governance practices
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
- Experience assessing and improving IT systems and processes
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Experience mentoring, coaching, or supporting non-technical users
- The ability to work effectively in a cross-cultural environment
Our Partner Organisation Cruz Vermelha de Timor-Leste (CVTL) was established in 2000 and is the recognised Red Cross National Society of Timor-Leste. As part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, CVTL works alongside communities throughout the country to support health initiatives, disaster preparedness and response, community resilience, and humanitarian assistance.
CVTL's vision is to improve the quality of life of vulnerable people and communities across Timor-Leste through humanitarian action, volunteerism, and community development.
The Assignment Technology plays a critical role in enabling CVTL staff to deliver effective programmes and support communities across Timor-Leste.
In this role, you will work closely with staff to:
- Conduct a comprehensive IT health check across the organisation
- Assess existing servers, networks, backup systems, and user processes
- Review and improve Microsoft 365 and cloud-based systems
- Strengthen network performance and connectivity
- Support improvements to data management and cybersecurity practices
- Improve system accessibility and reliability for staff
- Develop practical recommendations for future IT investments
- Build the confidence and capability of staff to manage and maintain systems effectively
A key focus of this role is mentoring and knowledge transfer, ensuring local staff are equipped with the skills and confidence to maintain and strengthen systems into the future.
The Country | Timor-Leste Timor-Leste is one of Southeast Asia's newest nations, known for its rich cultural heritage, resilient communities, and stunning landscapes. Based in the capital city of Dili, you'll have the opportunity to experience a unique blend of traditional culture and modern development while contributing to meaningful work that supports communities across the country.
VSA has worked alongside Timorese partners for many years, supporting locally led initiatives that strengthen education, governance, health, economic development, and community resilience.
Living and working in Timor-Leste offers a rewarding opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture while creating lasting impact.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and life experiences. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification listed, we still want to hear from you.
At VSA, we recognise that transferable skills, adaptability, relationship-building abilities, and a commitment to supporting communities can be just as valuable as specific technical expertise.
Please apply for this opportunity through our website at www.vsa.org.nz .
For more information or if you have any questions about this assignment, please contact our Recruitment Advisor at khenare@vsa.org.nz .
Please note: Due to VSA funding requirements, applicants must be New Zealand citizens or New Zealand permanent residents to progress through our recruitment process.
What’s included
Included when you join us
VSA organises and fully funds return economy-class international flights between New Zealand and your host country, plus any approved domestic travel connected to your assignment.
You’re covered under VSA’s comprehensive travel and medical insurance policy, which also includes emergency evacuation and personal belongings coverage. Before departure, you’ll receive full information on what’s covered and how to access support.
VSA arranges and funds safe, furnished accommodation throughout your assignment, whether you're in a capital or rural location. A housing checklist ensures your needs are met for comfort and security.
You’ll receive a modest monthly living allowance, paid into a local bank account, designed to cover essentials like food, transport, and utilities. This is in line with VSA’s cost-of-living support for volunteers.
Before you leave, VSA provides a multi-day residential briefing in Wellington, fully funded by VSA. This includes cultural orientation, language training, health and safety guidelines, and logistical preparation to get you deployment-ready
From your first day on assignment, you’ll have strong in-country support from VSA staff, Programme Managers and Coordinators, who provide orientation, security briefings, pastoral care, and ongoing assistance throughout your placement.
Preparation
How to prepare?
Be prepared for a comprehensive recruitment journey. This includes initial screening, background checks, and two interviews, one of which is a panel interview with a subject matter expert. Only after successfully completing these steps will you receive a provisional offer and begin the onboarding process. It’s essential to wait for VSA’s confirmation before making significant life changes, such as resigning from your job or selling property, as there may be delays in immigration or medical clearances.
Once accepted, you'll be invited to attend a multi-day residential briefing in Wellington. This course equips you with tools for success, covering cultural orientation, safety protocols, health preparation, and assignment logistics. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with other outgoing volunteers.
Volunteering abroad can be both deeply rewarding and personally challenging. Conditions may be unfamiliar, and change is often constant. Bring flexibility, a sense of humour, and a willingness to learn from others, you’ll grow alongside the community you’re there to support.
You’ll need to complete a health screening and ensure all required vaccinations are up to date. VSA provides medical and travel insurance, but you are also responsible for managing your day-to-day wellbeing. Think about how you'll maintain mental and physical health while overseas.
VSA asks volunteers to become ambassadors for the kaupapa. You will be asked to fundraise $1,000 to support the programme and raise awareness about your assignment. We provide resources and guidance to help you share your story and connect your networks with the impact of your work.
The platform we ask you to use is Raisely.
From visa applications to police checks and health forms, there are a few critical administrative tasks before departure. Our team will guide you through the steps to make sure everything is completed on time and with ease.
