Note that in addition to the level of your role, there are a few factors that can affect the rate you are negotiating for

The nature of the project (its budget): The budget allocated for a project significantly impacts a consultant’s rate. Projects with larger funding, often sponsored by well-resourced international organizations or government agencies, tend to offer higher compensation. On the other hand, smaller NGOs or grassroots organizations working with limited budgets may offer lower daily rates, even if the consultant’s expertise is crucial. The scale and complexity of the project also influence the rate; large, high-impact initiatives generally come with higher pay due to their scope and importance.

How rare your expertise is or how proven you are: The more specialized and scarce your expertise, the higher your negotiating power. Consultants with unique, in-demand skills (e.g., conflict resolution in post-crisis regions, climate adaptation technology) can command higher rates, as fewer professionals are qualified to perform the work. Additionally, consultants with a strong track record or reputation in the field, backed by successful project outcomes or prior experience with high-profile clients, often secure better rates. Proven expertise reduces risk for the hiring organization, making them willing to pay better.

The broader supply and demand for consultants in your specific sector or region will influence rates. In a highly competitive market with many available experts, rates may be lower, while in less saturated fields or regions where consultants are scarce, professionals can get higher fees.

Urgency and length of the work: If a project has a tight deadline or requires immediate intervention, organizations may be willing to pay more for consultants who can deliver quickly. Urgency often adds pressure and requires a fast turnaround, justifying a higher daily rate. On the flip side, the length of the contract can affect payment—while short-term assignments might offer higher pay due to the intensity, longer contracts may provide more stability but offer slightly lower rates in exchange for consistent work over a longer period.

Location of the work (dangerous location or extensive traveling): Consultants working in remote, high-risk, or politically unstable areas typically negotiate higher rates due to the additional personal risks and hardships. Hazardous locations or assignments that require extensive travel can add significant physical and emotional strain, warranting compensation that reflects the added challenge. Additionally, travel-intensive roles that keep a consultant away from home for extended periods could justify increased rates for the inconvenience and potential disruption to personal life.

so what are some common skills that development consultants need to possess. Read more.