Support us on site!
We are looking for people who are prepared to spend three or more months of their lives radically helping others.
What must I be able to do?
We are primarily looking for construction specialists with practical work experience. This means: ideally you have completed a technical apprenticeship or a degree in civil engineering, architecture or similar. Ideally, you should have already spent some time in the workplace. You should not be afraid to carry out physically demanding work, even in hot weather. However, we organise the teams in such a way that the skills of the team partners complement each other well. We make sure to assign you to a project that suits you at the appropriate (construction) phase – so you don’t have to be able to do or know everything.
What makes the Green Helmets tick?
We are looking for people who identify with the Green Helmets’ values of solidarity. This includes approaching other ways of living and working with curiosity, openness and respect. We always behave with restraint in the project country and regard ourselves as guests there. Dealing with the local people and the Green Helmets team as equals is essential. That is why we are not looking for lone wolves, but empathetic people who can work in a team.
What can I expect?
You should be able to do without your usual comforts. For example, is it no problem for you to shower outdoors (in African countries), have little or no internet reception or change your diet? Very good.
What are the costs?
You will not incur any costs during a Green Helmets assignment. However, we do not offer an employment contract or salary. Your work for us is considered voluntary work. For a three-month assignment, the organisation pays your travel costs to the project, accommodation (no single room) and meals in the project as well as accident and international health insurance. You will also receive a monthly allowance of 100 euros. For longer assignments, the Green Helmets pay a slightly higher allowance from the fourth month onwards. We do not cover rent or other expenses in Germany.
What else do I need?
We expect our applicants to take part in a first aid refresher course before their assignment and to have the necessary vaccinations for entry into the country. All employees must also be mentally and physically able to withstand the challenges.
How does the application process work?
If you are confident in this role and have at least three months to spare, simply apply using our online application form. There are no fixed application deadlines, as we are always looking for employees, sometimes at short notice.
If you are suitably qualified, we will invite you to an introductory weekend, which takes place approximately every eight to twelve weeks. There you will be informed in detail about the work and philosophy of the Green Helmets and there will be space for discussions and questions, as well as smaller construction projects in teams. After the meeting, you can decide whether an assignment is really something for you. At the same time, we will find out more about you and give you prompt feedback on whether, when and where an assignment is possible.