Title:  Protection Officer (Social Cohesion)

Location:  Gambella

Reports to: Protection Team Leader (Social Cohesion/Legal Aid)

Employment Band: H2

Salary Range: USD 540.00–656.00 per month which specific amount will be determined up on candidates experience and educational relevancy

Start of Contract & Duration: December 31, 2023 

INTRODUCTION 

The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a humanitarian, non-governmental organization founded in 1956 that works in more than 40 countries throughout the world, including Ethiopia. DRC commenced work in Ethiopia in 2009 and currently provides assistance in shelter, WASH, livelihoods and protection in the Gambella, Afar, Amhara, Tigray, Addis Ababa and Somali regions of the country as well as in Djibouti. The Danish Refugee Council (DRC), an international non-governmental organization (NGO), has been providing relief and development services in the Horn of Africa since 1997. DRC promotes and supports solutions to the problems faced by refugees, internally displaced people (IDPs), and migrants.

OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The Protection Officer (Social Cohesion), under the direct supervision of Protection Team Leader (Social Cohesion/Legal) in Gambella, is primarily responsible for the implementation of DRC’s protection program in specific to social cohesion activities across DRC`s areas of operation- Gambella (between refugees and host community).  S/he will work closely with the implementing partners, other DRC, local partners, program departments, other stakeholders assisting the target communities, and local authorities. The Officer will help establish and maintain strong relationships with project stakeholders for the fulfillment of project objectives.  S/he will collaborate with the protection team leader to ensure effective, relevant and holistic protection programming delivering activities in line with protection standards.

Responsibilities and tasks

• Provide capacity building trainings and workshops for community based structures, local committees, and local authorities on peace building strategies and social cohesion;

•  Establishment/strengthening of community groups such as peace committees, youth committees, and women committees;

• Organization of community-based social cohesion and solidarity events between refugees and host communities, such as participatory sessions to identify and analyze conflicts while ensuring Do No Harm, community awareness sessions on the risks of community conflicts in their communities, intra / inter-community dialogues for conflict management, community mobilization activities during international celebrations, and periodic workshops to assess community action plans;

•  Development and dissemination of key messages for the prevention of community conflicts;

• Celebration of champions and model hills in social cohesion on the International Day of Peace;

• Create strong collaboration and coordination with DRC`s livelihood project staff likewise with other support service departments

• Participate in the development of project management tools

• Plan the material supplies necessary for the implementation of the activities (training material, awareness raising, etc.)

• Respect all administrative, financial and logistical procedures of DRC;

•  Work closely with the supply chain team and colleagues to plan the organization of vehicles;

• Classify and archive all documents relating to activities and other resources;

• Ensure the representation of project activities in the field of social cohesion;

• Ensure quality representation of DRC to implementing partners;

•  Maintain good relations with all stakeholders;

• Collaborate closely with other team members and partners in the implementation of all activities;

• Regularly report to the protection team leader any information likely to impact the progress of project activities;

• Maintaining accurate and comprehensive files of project activities, outputs, materials, and other relevant documentation;

• Support protection related advocacy initiatives;

• Provide support in needs assessment surveys for future protection programming;

• Submit weekly progress reports to line manager including trainings, awareness-raising, community events within the allotted time;

Others

• Other relevant duties as directed by the line manager.

Job Requirements

Experience and technical competencies: (include years of experience)

• Minimum 2 years of experience in an entry to mid-level position, preferably in the field of humanitarian response and refugee protection working for an international NGO, UN agency or relevant ministry or local authority.

• Experience in refugee protection

• Have knowledge on community engagement, social cohesion, peaceful conflict management and non-violent communication, community-driven development, participatory development processes;

• Experience working with communities, particularly in conflict-affected areas;

• Experience working with vulnerable people representing different backgrounds;

• Demonstrated experience in coordinating and working with local government representatives;

• A good understanding of the gender issue;

• An understanding of the basic principles of humanitarian work, human rights, protection, and the needs of internally displaced persons, refugees and host communities in Gambella, Ethiopia.

• Interest in humanitarian work and human rights, ability and willingness to learn.

• Ability to clearly express one’s thoughts, to analyze and present information clearly and concisely.

• Ability to set priorities and show initiative, to work independently and as part of a team.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Good interpersonal and communication skills.

• Full proficiency in Microsoft Office package

• A sensitive approach to external representation 

All DRC roles require the post-holder to master DRC’s core competencies:

• Striving for excellence: Focusing on reaching results while ensuring efficient processes. 

• Collaborating: Involving relevant parties and encouraging feedback. 

• Taking the lead: Taking ownership and initiative while aiming for innovation. 

• Communicating: Listening and speaking effectively and honestly. 

• Demonstrating integrity: Acting in line with DRC's vision and values

Education:

• Bachelor degree in social sciences, community development, governance, law, social work, international development, or other relevant field from a recognized institution

Languages:

• Excellent proficiency in written and spoken English and Amharic. Knowledge of local language is an asset.

How to Apply

Interested candidates who meet the required qualifications and experience are invited to submit updated CV and cover letter explaining their motivation and why they are suited for the post.

We only accept applications sent via our online-application form on CLICK HERE under Vacancies

Please forward the application and CV, in English through the stated website no later than September 5, 2023

For general information about the Danish Refugee Council, please consult www.drc.ngo

Gender Equality: DRC is committed to achieving gender parity in staffing at all levels. In light of this, women candidates are particularly encouraged to apply to bridge the gender gap.

Equal Opportunities: DRC is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment based on mutual respect for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, disability status, religion, ethnic origin, colour, race, marital status or other protected characteristics

We encourage only qualified Ethiopian Nationals to apply. DRC considers all applicants based on merit.

Female Applicants are highly encouraged!