General

Description of assignment title: Associate Eligibility Officer

Assignment country: Somalia

Expected start date: 11/01/2022

Sustainable Development Goal: 10. Reduced inequalities

Volunteer category: International UN Volunteer Specialist

DoA reserved for persons with disabilities: No

Host entity: UNHCR

Type: Onsite

Duration: 12 months (with possibility of extension)

Number of assignments: 1

Duty stations: Bosasso

Details

Mission and objectives

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees was established on December 14, 1950, by the United Nations General Assembly. The agency is mandated to lead and co-ordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. It strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with the option to return home voluntarily, integrate locally or to resettle in a third country. In addition to 2.6 million of internally displaced persons, mainly, living in south/central Somalia, as of 31 August 2021, Somalia is hosting 27,184 refugees and asylum seekers in need of a durable solution. The active refugee population in Somaliland is approx. 14,000 refugees and asylum seekers as of 31 August 2021. Most of the refugees live in urban centres in Somaliland and Puntland. The majority of refugees and asylum-seekers originate from Ethiopia mainly from Oromo ethnicity while the rest are from different nationalities such as Eritrea, Yemen, Syria, and other nationalities.

Context

The Office of the UNHCR was established on 14 December 1950 by the UN General Assembly. The agency is mandated to lead and co-ordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. It strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with the option to return home voluntarily, integrate locally or to resettle in a third country (www.unhcr.org). The Associate Eligibility Officer is a member of the Refugee Status Determination (RSD) team. Under the direct supervision of the Protection Officer and/or RSD Supervisor, s/he is responsible for conducting RSD interviews to determine eligibility for refugee status, undertaking country of origin (COI) and other research related to the claim, as required, and drafting RSD assessments, including for complex cases. The Associate Eligibility Officer provides counseling to asylum-seekers and refugees on UNHCR’s RSD procedures and on their status, rights and obligations in the country of asylum. The Associate Eligibility Officer may review RSD assessments of members of the RSD team and provide legal and procedural guidance and coaching, as required. The Associate Eligibility Officer may assist in developing and implementing RSD training, including for Government authorities and other partners, as well as other measures to enhance the quality and efficiency of RSD decision-making, and provide technical advice to strengthen national asylum procedures. The Associate Eligibility Officer assists in compiling and analyzing information related to the RSD activities of the operation, and participates in decisions regarding appropriate case management strategies. This UNV assignment is subject to proof of vaccination against Covid-19 with WHO approved vaccine, unless the UNHCR Medical Service approves an exemption from this requirement on medical grounds.

Task description

Under the direct supervision of Protection Officer and/or RSD Supervisor, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: Strategic Direction and Coordination:

• •  Stay abreast of legal, political, security and other developments which impact on the protection environment, and in particular, on protection delivery through RSD.
  •  Assist in the development of the RSD strategy of the operation and in the annual planning exercise.

• •  Contribute to the development and enhancement of regional and global RSD standards and policies. Response and Advice:

• •  Review RSD decisions and provide appropriate feedback and guidance to RSD staff.
  •  Conduct RSD interviews and draft RSD Assessments in accordance with applicable standards and guidelines.
  •  Maintain accurate and up-to date records and data related to all work on individual cases.
  •  Provide counselling to asylum seekers and refugees.
  •  Assist in designing, implementing and revising, as required, operation-specific SOPs for all aspects of the RSD operation in accordance with applicable standards and policies.
  •  Systematically apply an age, gender and diversity (AGD) perspective in the performance of assigned functions.
  •  Assist in monitoring RSD trends and in compiling and analysing RSD statistics related to RSD case processing to identify and respond to developments or issues impacting on the efficiency or quality of RSD decision-making, and to propose remedial measures. Advocacy, Information Management and Research:
  •  Conduct research on country of origin information (COI) and legal issues related to RSD and assist in maintaining a local repository of relevant information, guidelines and standards accessible to RSD staff in the operation.
  •  Ensure that persons of concern, Government authorities and legal partners have accurate information on the RSD procedures, including UNHCR standards, policy and practice.
  •  Assist in developing and maintaining processes to ensure that persons of concern, Government authorities and partners have accurate information on the RSD procedures, including UNHCR standards, policy and practice.
  •  Assist in initiatives to advocate with and support Government authorities and legal partners to establish and strengthen fair and efficient RSD procedures and RSD decision-making. Promotion and Capacity Building:
  •  Assess training needs of UNHCR staff engaged in RSD and related activities and provide on-going training and coaching on legal and procedural RSD issues.
  •  Support the development and implementation of RSD training initiatives for Government authorities and legal partners. Human resources:

• •  Assist in evaluating and projecting RSD staffing needs using the RSD Staffing Bench-marks.

•  Support UNHCR staff engaged in RSD and related activities and exercise effective oversight.

Eligibility criteria

Age: 27 – 80

Nationality

Candidate must be a national of a country other than the country of assignment.

Requirements

Required experience

3 years of experience in the area of refugee protection, human rights or international humanitarian law.

•  Minimum 1 year of experience working directly with procedures and principles related to RSD.
•  Knowledge of International Refugee Law and Human Rights Law and ability to apply the relevant legal principles.
•  Strong research and analytical skills.
•  Excellent oral and written communication skills.
•  Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills.
•  Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) awareness and demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a multi-cultural environment.
•  The ability to work effectively under stress and in crisis situations. Desirable qualifications and competencies:
•  Experience as a decision-maker in UNHCR or Government RSD procedures is highly desirable.
•  Experience in counselling asylum seekers or refugees.
•  Experience in working with vulnerable or traumatized individuals.
•  Completion of UNHCR’s RSD Learning Programme, COI Learning Programme, Protection Learning Programme.
•  Experience in supervising and in providing training or coaching, guidance or advice to staff.

Area(s) of expertise

Security and protection

Driving license

–

Languages

English, Level: Fluent, Desirable

Required education level

Bachelor degree or equivalent in Law, political science, international relations or another related field

Competencies and values

•  Professionalism: demonstrated understanding of operations relevant to UNHCR; technical capabilities or knowledge relevant or transferrable to UNHCR procedures and rules; discretion, political sensitivity, diplomacy and tact to deal with clients; ability to apply good judgement; ability to liaise and coordinate with a range of different actors, especially in senior positions; where appropriate, high degree of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take ownership; resourcefulness and willingness to accept wide responsibilities and ability to work independently under established procedures; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsive and client-oriented;
•  Integrity: demonstrate the values and ethical standards of the UN and UNHCR in daily activities and behaviors while acting without consideration of personal gains; resist undue political pressure in decision-making; stand by decisions that are in the organization’s interest even if they are unpopular; take prompt action in cases of unprofessional or unethical behavior; does not abuse power or authority;
•  Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, mixed-gender environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity; sensitivity and adaptability to culture, gender, religion, nationality and age; commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of UN operations; ability to achieve common goals and provide guidance or training to colleagues;
•  Commitment to continuous learning: initiative and willingness to learn new skills and stay abreast of new developments in area of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in work environment.
•  Planning and organizing: effective organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to manage a large volume of work in an efficient and timely manner; ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with conflicting deadlines, and to handle multiple concurrent projects/activities;
•  Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken and written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear and concise reports; ability to conduct presentations, articulate options and positions concisely; ability to make and defend recommendations; ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts and local interlocutors coming from very diverse backgrounds; capacity to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of different target groups;
•  Flexibility: adaptability and ability to live and work in potentially hazardous and remote conditions, involving physical hardship and little comfort; to operate independently in austere environments for protracted periods; willingness to travel within the area of operations and to transfer to other duty stations within the area of operations as necessary;
•  Genuine commitment towards the principles of voluntary engagement, which includes solidarity, compassion, reciprocity and self-reliance; and commitment towards UNHCR’s mission and vision, as well as to the UN Core Values.

Other information

Living conditions and remarks

•  Somalia (Bossaso/Somalia) is a non-family duty station and the volunteer will be subject to the overall direction and guidance of the UN Designated Official (DO) for security. This is usually the UNDP Resident Representative. The volunteer will be incorporated into all applicable security protocols and will be required to strictly adhere to the guidelines, security plans and other directives issued by the DO. While in Somalia, the volunteer will be accommodated at an accommodation that has been cleared by UNDSS.
•  The volunteer will be living in UNHCR compound. As a resident in the compound the volunteer will be allocated a bedroom with bathroom and shared common room, kitchen, living room with a dining area.
•  Bossaso is now high security level and therefore all international staff members are required to use Armored Vehicles when moving within and outside Bossaso.
•  Access to markets is limited due to difficulties of moving around without armored vehicle and are subject to UNDSS advise of having an accompanying national staff when visiting the markets. Access to restaurants and cafes and other public spaces are not allowed due to high level of security.

Inclusivity statement

United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. We are committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, care protected characteristics. As part of their adherence to the values of UNV, all UN Volunteers commit themselves to combat any form of discrimination, and to promoting respect for human rights and individual dignity, without distinction of a person’s race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.

Note on Covid-19 vaccination requirements

Selected candidates for certain occupational groups may be subject to inoculation (vaccination) requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) in line with the applicable host entity policy

The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs. DRC is a humanitarian, non-governmental, non-profit organization which has been operating in Somalia since 1997. DRC has mainly focused on Somalis who are displaced by conflict and natural disaster. DRC programs include Protection, Food Security & Livelihoods, Shelter/NFI and Water & Sanitation. Since 2018 DRC, in collaboration with UNHCR and under the leadership of the Protection Cluster, is spearheading a country-wide Protection Monitoring System. DRC is one of the two networks responsible for data collection in Somalia.

Overall purpose of the role:

We are looking for a highly motivated Protection Assistant whose main responsibilities focus on conducting protection monitoring as well as to provide general support to protection activities. The person will be responsible for DRC Protection Monitoring PM) Activities data collection, in line with Protection Information Management principles and methodology, by conducting interviews to collect information about rights violations and protection risks in the framework of the Mix Migration Strategy.

Responsibilities:

•  Utilize digital data collection system for data collection and uploading
•  Participate actively in training when provided – including on PIM, the digital system and other relevant topics
•  Contribute to testing, data cleaning, and regular debriefing with the Protection Team Leader of digital data collection activities
•  Ensure the data is collected in line with PIM and protection principles, observing data protection SOPs
•  Report about emergencies such as evictions, displacement, natural disaster and related protection needs
•  Participate in protection and multi-sectoral rapid needs assessments
•  Support coordination of emergency response through sharing information about needs and ongoing interventions.
•  Implement protection monitoring, through the collection of quantitative data (with household-level survey) and qualitative data by implementing focus groups and key informant surveys on protection issues.
•  identify beneficiaries for possible IPA and refer them to the Officers for characterisation.
•  Carry out service requests and direct purchase processes aimed at responding to the specific protection needs in each case, as well as monitoring and tracking such actions until the actual delivery of the required service/assistance.
•  Accompany and/or carry out the effective delivery of the services/assistance required and make the respective delivery report to the Protection Officer.
•  Carry out the due legalization of the expenses incurred for the provision of services/assistance required by the PoC
• • Maintain permanent communication and coordination with the case management officer, for the prompt, effective and suitable provision of the required services/assistance and in compliance with the technical, programmatic and support requirements existing in the organization.
  •  Provide psychological first aid, safe identification, and referrals to survivors of protection incidents in line with the survivor-centered approach, ensuring commitment to case management principles – in particular the principle of confidentiality.
  •  Handle confidential information correctly, managing protection files accurately, correctly and completely.
  •  Participate in protection and multi-sector awareness sessions
  •  Follow up cases by ascertaining beneficiaries’ satisfaction in receiving services.
  •  Obtain, collect and organize in a suitable way the physical and digital means of verification of the project.
  •  Support protection officers in the coordination and implementation of services/assistance to be provided (IPA) according to the specific protection needs and individual care plans generated for each case.
  •  (C) Conduct other duties as assigned by supervisors
  •  Support other sectors, esp. CCCM activities if requested

  Experience, Education and technical competencies: (include years of experience)

  •  At least one-year previous NGO or humanitarian work experience.
  •  Diploma, University Degree in Social sciences or related qualification in Social work, protection or human rights.
  •  Good data collection/analysis and reporting skills
  •  Experience using online data collection software
  •  Familiar with computers, Outlook, Excel and MS Word, mobile surveys
  •  Experience in protection monitoring and reporting
  •  Honest, hardworking and independent.

  Languages: Fluency in written and spoken Somali & English

  ABOUT YOU

  In this position, you are expected to demonstrate DRC’ five core competencies: Striving for excellence: You focus on reaching results while ensuring an efficient process. Collaborating: You involve relevant parties and encourage feedback. Taking the lead: You take ownership and initiative while aiming for innovation. Communicating: You listen and speak effectively and honestly. Demonstrating integrity: Upholding and promoting the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in relation to DRC’s values and Code of Conduct, including safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment.

  Conditions

  Availability: August 2022 Duty station: Bossaso Reporting to: Protection Team Leader

  Duration: 6 Months with possibility of extension based on performance and funding

  Contract: This position is graded as Band I-Non-Management for qualified national staff and the terms of employment will be in accordance with DRC terms for national staff.

  The position is open to Nationals ONLY

  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, color, race, marital status or other protected characteristics.

  Commitments DRC has a Humanitarian Accountability Framework, outlining its global accountability commitments. All staff are required to contribute to the achievement of this framework (http://www.drc.dk/HAF.4265.0.html). All DRC staff must be committed to the Red Cross Code of Conduct, as well as the Core Humanitarian Standards.

  Application Applicants must send a cover letter and an updated CV in English. The cover letter should outline your personal motivation for applying and your key qualifications for the position. We only accept applications sent via our online-application form on www.drc.ngo under Vacancies. Applications sent by email will not be considered. Please forward the application and CV, in English through the online application on www.drc.ngo under Vacancies no later than 19 July 2022.

  If you have questions or are facing problems with the online application process, please visit drc.ngo/job support

   

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BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT

Somalia is emerging from a long period of conflict that has brought public health infrastructure to a state of near collapse. Over the past decade, the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with health partners has embarked on a process of health system rehabilitation with the goal of ensuring access to essential health services for all.

The goal is to put the country onto a path towards achievement of equity in health service delivery, and to lay the foundation for progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC) 2030. Core health indicators suggest some early successes, though much work remains to be done.

Although they remain very high, maternal, infant and child mortality rates are gradually declining. In 2015, the maternal mortality ratio was estimated at 732 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births ^{[ [1]]}, further declined, although modestly, to an estimated 692 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births ^{[ [2]]}. The proportion of births assisted by skilled health personnel has increased from 9% (2016-2017 data) ^[1], to 32% in 2020^[2] which could partially explain the gradual reduction in maternal mortality over the past decade and reflects improvements in service demand and delivery.

Job Title: Food security and Livelihoods Manager

Project/Department: Emergency Program

Location: Bosaso –Puntland with substantial travel to project sites

Supervisor Title: Humanitarian Program Manager -Puntland

Position Summary

About CARE, CARE is an International NGO working in Somalia/Somaliland. CARE and its partners work with vulnerable communities to address Humanitarian needs, the underlying causes of poverty and promote peace and development, through its strategic goal to reduce poverty by empowering women, enhancing access to resources and services, and improving governance.

Job Summary; Under the supervision of the Humanitarian Program Manager -Puntland, the Food Security and Livelihood Manager will be expected to have demonstrated experience, skills & knowledge in Food security and Livelihoods for humanitarian assistance agenda in Somalia. He/she will be required to develop strategies, sustainable technical guidelines in close working relationship with other program teams. The incumbent is expected to work in close collaboration with the emergency, Rural women and Urban youth program teams to promote synergy as well as the Humanitarian -Development nexus. CARE is looking for suitable candidates to fill the position of Food Security and Livelihoods Manager based in Bosaso, Puntland with frequent travels and support to project sites. Therefore, we invite applications from experienced and talented individuals for the position.

Duties & Responsibilities

1. Strategic planning.

• Lead on situation analysis related to food security and Livelihoods, conduct assessments including market assessment and other related exercises.
• Gather and analyze Food security and Livelihoods information to inform proposal development for Humanitarian interventions.
• Offer technical support to the program and support teams during design and proposal development
• Based on opportunities and gap analysis, develop and implement strategies for the growth of Food security and livelihoods sector, in particular new and innovative approaches.
• Ensure that synergies between health, nutrition, WASH and protection are optimized and highlighted in all phases of the program cycle considering the Humanitarian and Development nexus.

1. Program Design, implementation and Reporting

• Lead the field level implementation of Food security and livelihood activities in Puntland.
• Assist the Humanitarian Program Manager in identifying new needs in food security and livelihood in the program areas and provide clear and detailed recommendations for interventions.
• Supervise and manage the field team implementing food security and livelihood activities while support the team for setting clear work plans.
• Conduct regular field visit during the project implementation and provide feedback to the team as well as local partners implementing CARE programs.
• Jointly with the Humanitarian Program Manager, develop appropriate targeting criteria and mechanisms to ensure the needs of identified eligible and vulnerable groups are met.
• Ensure that the different FS&L projects /activities are implemented in a coordinated and integrated manner.
• Create a conducive environment and conditions to ensure effective teamwork while promoting staff wellbeing.
• Ensure all FS&L team under supervision understand and carry out their duties in accordance with humanitarian principles, CARE core values and the Code of Conduct.
• Working in close collaboration with other program members such as the health, Nutrition, Protection and WASH teams to ensure an integrated approach to meet the other basic needs of the affected population.
• Ensure prompt collection, analysis, and sharing of all food security and livelihood data, especially commodity/market price monitoring, working closely with the MEAL Team.
• Work with the M&E team to monitor indicators of the project and document successes and challenges encountered.
• Be responsible for quality data management and reporting of cash and voucher assistance (CVA)
• Actively engage in and represent the Humanitarian Program Manager in the Cash Working Group and Food Security and Livelihoods Sub-Sector (FSL), when required.
• Provide regular updates on the FS&L activities and ensure reports are written and submitted timely to the Humanitarian Program Manager.
• Liaison and collaborate with relevant local authorities, line ministries and stakeholders in the project areas.
• Identify priority areas for capacity building of the staff and work with the Humanitarian Program Manager to provide additional training and support.
• Establish and maintain constructive working relationships with other Partners in the program areas.
• Proactively raise field related issues with the Humanitarian Program Manager as appropriate.
• Work with the communication team for the documentation of project impacts.

Representation and Communication

• Coordinate all technical activities with program teams, sub-recipients, government agencies, local and international NGOs and community organizations
• Represent CARE in meetings and workshops with external stakeholders including the Clusters, UN, INGOs and Government
• Attend Food and Livelihoods security cluster meetings and ensure CARE programs are adequately shared and decision influence where appropriate to increase visibility.
• Participate Somalia Cash technical working group and show case CARE Somalia cash and voucher assistance interventions and key learnings.

Key Internal Contacts; Emergency Director/sector leads /Humanitarian Program Managers/ MEAL teams

Key External Contacts; Focal points in clusters and other humanitarian agencies (UN and NGO).

• University degree in food security, economics, or related field complemented by significant experience in food security and livelihood-related field.
• At least 4 years of experience in humanitarian programming on food security and livelihoods and cluster coordination.
• Extensive experience and demonstrated success in team management.
• A good track record of implementing, managing, and monitoring cash and Voucher assistance program.
• Ability to work independently, but also coordinate effectively as part of a team.
• Strong computer skills (MS Word, Excel, Outlook and Power Point);
• Fluency in English. Somali language is a requirement
• Firm understanding of ‘Do No Harm’ approach
• Willingness to travel within the project areas
• Proven ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is offering an Associate RSD Officer position within Bossaso, UNHCR Somalia in our Protection Unit. The Associate RSD Officer will be conducting Refugee Status Determination case processing, include, where needed, appeals, and case review and capacity building training and activities.

UNHCR is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights and building a better future for refugees, forcibly displaced communities and stateless people. Every year, millions of men, women, and children are forced to flee their homes to escape conflict and persecution. We are in over 125 countries, using our expertise to protect and care for millions.

• Title: Associate RSD Officer
• Duty Station: Bossaso
• Duration: from 01/06/2022 to 31/12/2022 (with possibility of extension)
• Contract Type: UNOPS International ICA Level 1
• Closing date: 28^th March 2022
• Start date: 1^st June 2022

Organisational context

The Protection Unit in Field Office Bossaso, Puntland is headed by an Associate Protection Officer and provides operational support, policy guidance and advice throughout FO Bossaso Areas of Responsibility (Bossaso, Garowe and Gardo). In addition, the Unit maintains close cooperation with other Units in UNHCR Mogadishu and Sub Office Galkayo and works together with Executive Office and Programme Unit in design, review and implementation of projects, as well as participates in Protection Cluster meetings, representing UNHCR FO Bossaso position and strategy regarding protection of persons of concern (PoCs). The Associate RSD Officer is a member of the Protection Unit with specific responsibilities related to Refugee Status Determination procedures (RSD).

As of 01 March 2022, Somaliland hosts approximately 12,000 refugees and asylum seekers, primarily from Ethiopia, Yemen, and other nationalities. Access to asylum is generally respected in Puntland. Yemenis and Syrians in Puntland are accorded refugee status on prima facie basis while all other nationalities (Ethiopians) are required to undergo individual RSD. Puntland authorities recognize refugee status accorded by UNHCR, which conducts mandate RSD – First Instance and Appeals. There is a significant number of asylum seekers in Puntland that are pending mandate RSD and the existing operational staffing capacity to clear current backlog is extremely limited. This backlog has an impact on the resource allocation for the program given that asylum seekers constitute 50% of the population and most vulnerable asylum seekers receive cash assistance. As per the UNHCR Somalia 2020-2022 Multi-Year Multi Partner Protection and Solutions Strategy and 2020 RSD Backlog Reduction Strategy, those in need of RSD to achieve solutions and protection benefits will be prioritized for RSD processing based on clearly defined prioritization criteria.

The position

We are seeking a dynamic and proactive team player, who will ensure that the above explained strategic approach is effectively implemented towards backlog reduction. The Associate RSD Officer will also provide operational, case processing and strategic support on mandate RSD in Puntland and provide advice and guidance on legal and procedural matters related to RSD in line with UNHCR’s RSD Procedural Standards (2020) and other relevant protection policies and guidelines. Under the supervision of the Associate Protection Officer based in Bossaso, s/he will work closely with the RSD Officer in Nairobi, senior managers, as well as staff responsible for registration, resettlement and training activities and will ensure that weekly RSD case targets are effectively tracked. S/he will also liaise with relevant focal points working at RO and Regional Bureau.

Duties and responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of Protection Officer and/or RSD Supervisor*,* the Incumbent will undertake the following tasks:

• Conduct RSD interviews and draft RSD Assessments in accordance with applicable standards and guidelines.
• Maintain accurate and up-to date records and data related to all work on individual cases.
• Provide counselling to asylum seekers and refugees.
• Assist in monitoring RSD trends and in compiling and analysing RSD statistics related to RSD case processing to identify and respond to developments or issues impacting on the efficiency or quality of RSD decision-making, and to propose remedial measures.
• Conduct research on country-of-origin information (COI) and legal issues related to RSD and assist in maintaining a local repository of relevant information, guidelines and standards accessible to RSD staff in the operation.
• Supervise the reception and provide support to the receptionist in providing feedback to individual cases.
• Supervise the protection email ID and letter box and ensure to provide timely responses to PoCs
• Review RSD decisions and provide appropriate feedback and guidance to RSD staff.
• Assist in developing and maintaining processes to ensure that persons of concern, Government authorities and partners have accurate information on the RSD procedures, including UNHCR standards, policies and practice.
• Assist in initiatives to advocate with and support Government authorities and legal partners to establish and strengthen fair and efficient RSD procedures and RSD decision-making.
• Design and carry out training for Government authorities and other partners on legal and procedural issues related to RSD and provide technical advice to strengthen national asylum procedures
• Assist in evaluating and projecting RSD staffing needs using the RSD Staffing Benchmarks.

Essential minimum qualifications and professional experience required

The ideal candidate will/have:

• Possess a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field – International Refugee Law International Human Rights Law; International Humanitarian Law; International Criminal Law; Social Sciences; or another relevant field
• Minimum 3 years relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or 2 years relevant experience with Graduate degree or 1-year relevant experience with Doctorate degree
• Minimum six months experience working with RSD module on proGres v4 is required
• Knowledge and experience working with RSD on proGres v3 is desirable
• Be knowledgeable of and/or preparedness to become familiar with and abide by UNHCR’s principles, code of conduct and humanitarian goals;
• Knowledge of the international legal framework governing refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons and statelessness;
• Knowledge of UNHCR guidelines on refugee status determination including application of Exclusion article 1F of the 1951 Convention, preventing and Mitigating of Fraud in the Resettlement processes.
• Excellent interviewing and counselling skills as demonstrated in previous assignments.
• Excellent drafting and written skills in English, very strong attention to detail, very strong analytical skills, as demonstrated in previous assignments’
• Experience giving advice on RSD guidelines and policy is desirable.
• Excellent communication skills with strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Be fluent in English, with advanced writing and editing skills. Additional languages are desirable, but not essential.
• Be capable of building and maintaining simple databases and filing systems for project management.
• Have good experience using the Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Demonstrate a genuine desire to learn and develop.
• Be highly organized and have good attention to detail.
• Be able to multi-task and to prioritize workload.
• Be a flexible, team-player

Location

The successful candidate will be based with the team in Bossaso, Somalia.

Conditions

The assignment is from June 2022 to December 2022 with possibility of further extension. It is a full-time role with working hours starting from 8.00am to 16.30pm Sunday to Thursday (40 hours per week).

Job Title: Senior Project Officer (SPO)– Education in Emergency

Project/Department**: Emergency Program

Duty station:** Bossaso with travel to other parts of Puntland where project covers.

Supervisor Title: Programme Manager – Education in Emergency (EiE)

I. JOB SUMMARY

CARE Somalia in Partnership with Mercy Corps and DBG Somalia is implementing a two-year ECHO funded Education in Emergency Consortium project, named, Expanded Emergency Education support for Disaster Affected children in Somalia (EESDAC). The project is designed to contribute to increased access to quality and protective learning opportunities for out of school children and improve retention for those at risks of dropping out to impact of various disasters. The project covers seven regions namely, Sool, Sanaag, Mudug, Bari, Galgadud, Banadir and Nugal.

The SPO will be employed under the EESDAC project and will be based in Bossaso. He/ she is will be responsible for day to day implementation of the project activities in Puntland state under the supervision of the Program Manager -EIE sector. This will include leading field assessment, implementation of project activities; work plans, supporting MEAL activities and collection of project achievements data, liaising and supporting education stakeholders’, capacity building initiatives, preparation of project activities reports, overseeing education stakeholders’ trainings etc. He/she ensures that efficient and effective systems and processes are in place to enable CARE to implement program activities in line with donor requirements. He/she will have frequent interaction with program technical staff and government officials in his / her area of work.

Specific responsibilities will include the following

II. Responsibilities

Project Implementation

• Lead all field work to conduct baseline, midline and end line studies, school assessments, and other studies that the project might undertake in the course of the project life.

• Working with the program staff, MOE, and communities to identify support to target schools based on the assessment of need in all the districts of project operations.

• Ensure that all the beneficiary communities participate fully in all the project work particularly in the prioritizing of community needs.

• Working with the project team and MOE ensure that project intervention target marginalized children with special emphasis on the girl child.

• Train and coach CECs and head teachers in the development of School Improvement Plans in collaboration with regional and district education officers.

• Working closely with the project engineer, ensure that all construction/rehabilitation works are in line with the designs and BOQs and are of high quality and meet the child friendly school criteria.

• Ensure that project intervention give special attention to the needs of girls and for children with special needs.

• Working with CECs, school heads and Ministry of health and MOE to promote life skills, hygiene and nutrition awareness among young learners especially girls in upper classes.

• Collaborate with other CARE Education Projects for synergy in the implementation of project activities.

• Design an overall operational plan for each region in consultation with the Regional Education

• Officers, CECs and other stakeholders.

• Oversee the overall implementation of EIE project activities in accordance with CARE program quality and compliance standards and donor requirements stipulated in the project documents.

• Provide support to MoE officers responsible for supporting the EIE project implementation at schools, districts and regional level.

• Assist Program Manager in producing project cash flow on monthly basis as per

CARE minimum standards and donors’ requirements

• Ensure that education program is implemented in close coordination with MOE and other actors of education projects

• Establish good working relationship with MOE at central, regional and district levels, teachers and CECs and ensure that they take the leading role in planning, managing and monitoring of project activities.

• Ensure that project procurement is properly planned and put into the Pamodzi system.

• Work closely with the procurement officer to follow up the procurement process of the project goods and services.

• Facilitate child protection and psychosocial support trainings for teachers, CECs, child clubs and focal points.

Partnership & Capacity Building

• Train, support and coaching of education mentors, teachers and Community Education Committee

(CECs) in order to ensure quality delivery of programs.

• Ensure the implementation of EESDAC project promotes capacity building to the maximum degree possible for local communities, MOE, CBOs and government staff and agencies.

• Training and capacity building of CECs to oversee the management and administration of project supported schools.

• To manage delegated budgets as required in liaison with the Programme Manager to ensure that all project funds are spent in accordance with CARE and donor policies.

Project Monitoring and Review

• Collaborate with the regional and district officials of the MOE to oversee project implementation.

• Organize and participate in quarterly monitoring and evaluation of projects.

• Ensure that project/program monitoring and evaluation system/tools are applied and project progress (activities and outputs), results and immediate objectives (outcomes) and impacts are systematically tracked, documented and shared as appropriate on the basis of CARE and donors’ requirements.

• Travel to project sites of Education program and conduct regular monitoring of projects together

with MOE and project team.

• Ensure the participation of beneficiaries in M&E of project activities.

• Provide technical assistance to REOs, DEOs, teachers and mentors through developing standards, monitoring/supervision tools, guidelines and trainings and other mechanisms to ensure quality of primary education.

Reporting and Representation

• Ensure the timely production of quality monthly and quarterly reports by collating reports of different field locations into one report and submission programme Manager or other Key management staff.

• Document programme learning and disseminate lessons learned to key stakeholders in the field.

• Prepare reports on each field visit conducted and submit to the report to Programme Manager or other key management staff.

• Prepare case studies and success stories in the course of your work with the project.

• Represent CARE in all relevant forums, stakeholders such as local authorities, community leaders, representatives of NGOs, UN agencies and government issues related to education sector.

R.5 Others

• Undertake any other duties as assigned by your supervisor or other key management staff.

• Perform other related tasks as requested by his/her immediate supervisor.

• Account for CARE’s assets and interests and safeguard from loss arising from fraud, waste, weak administration and poor value for money

• Carry out the responsibilities of the role in a way which reflects CARE’s commitment to delivering

service to the needy beneficiaries.

• To bring to the notice of the Programme Manager any discrepancies, serious incidents or any urgent information which may need serious consideration regarding day to day program activities

• To fulfill any additional assignments as deemed necessary by the organization.

III**. Decision- Making Authority**

None

IV. Key Relationship / Contacts

CARE sub – office staff

• Staff of other CARE projects

• Line ministries staffs (MoE)

• Local partner organizations

• Local authorities

• CECs and communities

· Children and teachers

V. Direct Reports

None

VI. Working Conditions

Based in Bossaso and requires substantive travel to project sites covering all the regions of Puntland.

VII. Required Qualification

• University degree in Education, social sciences or any other related field.

• At least 3 years working experience with INGOs in Education

VIII. Person Specification

• Strong command of written and spoken English

• Good interpersonal and communication skills

• Good computer skills MS and Excel

· Good understanding of child protection, safeguarding and PSS.

• An individual with initiatives and strong teamwork skills

• Clearly conveying information and ideas through a variety of media to individuals or groups

• Establish courses of action for self and others to ensure work is completed efficiently and effectively