Protection Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a leading humanitarian organization that works to support displaced individuals and communities affected by conflict and disaster. Established in 1956, DRC operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on providing assistance, protection, and solutions for refugees and internally displaced persons. With a mission to promote the rights of displaced people and support their reintegration into society, DRC employs thousands of staff and collaborates with various local and international partners to deliver effective humanitarian aid and development programs.

Job Overview:
The Protection Officer plays a crucial role in the implementation of community-based protection activities, ensuring the effective delivery of services to communities at risk of displacement. This position involves providing technical supervision to protection assistants and leading the Community-Based Protection (CBP) initiatives, which include community consultations, training, and the development of Community Action Plans (CAP). The officer is expected to work closely with affected communities, enhancing their understanding of protection risks and facilitating the implementation of Group Cash Transfers (GCT) to address immediate needs. The role also requires regular reporting and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the smooth execution of protection activities and the adaptation of community-based approaches that are rights-based and gender-responsive.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Officer's responsibilities include leading the capacity building and technical supervision of CBP implementation, conducting community consultations, and facilitating the selection and training of Community-Based Protection Group (CBPG) members. The officer will support protection assistants in utilizing CBP tools effectively and will be responsible for submitting bi-weekly protection reports to the Protection Team Leader. Additionally, the officer will facilitate meetings and training sessions in conflict-affected areas, ensuring that protection awareness activities align with community needs. The role also involves developing partnerships with local stakeholders, conducting field monitoring visits, and coordinating with CSOs to identify protection risks and trends. The officer will draft financial and procurement documents under the supervision of the Protection Team Leader and assist in recruiting new incentive workers as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a relevant university degree in fields such as political science, international development, or economics, or have equivalent professional qualifications. A minimum of 2 years of work experience in humanitarian settings, preferably with NGOs or UN agencies, is required. Strong knowledge of protection issues in the Northern Shan State context and experience with community-based protection approaches are essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong facilitation skills, analytical abilities, and problem-solving capabilities. Proficiency in MS Office applications is also necessary, along with strong team coordination and leadership skills.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant university degree, such as in political science, international development, or economics. Equivalent professional qualifications may also be considered acceptable. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and protection issues.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 2 years of relevant work experience in humanitarian programs, particularly in roles related to protection and community engagement. Experience working with international NGOs or UN agencies is preferred, and candidates should have a strong understanding of protection issues and community-based approaches in the context of Northern Shan State.

Languages:
Fluency in Burmese is mandatory, and proficiency in English is also required. Knowledge of additional local languages, such as Shan and Kachin, is considered an asset and would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered on a regular contract basis, with a 3-month probation period. The contract is renewable based on funding availability and performance. The salary and conditions will align with DRC's Terms of Employment, and the position falls within Employment Band H, which is categorized as non-management. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting their applications in English by the deadline of 29 June 202

• Note that applications consisting solely of CVs will not be considered, and the review process will occur on a rolling basis, with shortlisted candidates potentially contacted for interviews before the closing date.