Safety and Access Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an international humanitarian organization founded in Denmark in 195

• It assists refugees and internally displaced persons globally by providing emergency aid, advocating for their rights, and enhancing their opportunities for a better future. DRC operates in conflict-affected areas, along displacement routes, and in countries where refugees settle. The organization collaborates with local communities to pursue responsible and sustainable solutions, aiming for successful integration and, when possible, facilitating the return of displaced individuals to their homes. With a workforce of over 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers, DRC's vision is to ensure a dignified life for all displaced individuals, guided by core values of humanity, respect, independence, neutrality, participation, honesty, and transparency.

Job Overview:
The Safety and Access Officer position is based in Herat and reports directly to the Area Manager. This role is crucial for representing DRC and requires the development of strong relationships with various stakeholders to effectively fulfill the responsibilities associated with safety and access. The officer must maintain a professional demeanor and adhere to DRC's Code of Conduct at all times. The position involves ensuring effective communication between local authorities, community leaders, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security stakeholders, acting as the local focal point for safety coordination and information sharing. The officer will also be responsible for ensuring DRC's operations align with local guidelines and protocols, collecting and analyzing information that may impact DRC's operations, and assisting in the development of safety plans and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Safety and Access Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: ensuring strong communication between DRC and local authorities, community leaders, and security stakeholders; acting as the local focal point for safety coordination; representing DRC at inter-agency safety forums; ensuring compliance with local guidelines; collecting, verifying, analyzing, and reporting information affecting DRC operations; assisting in the development of safety plans and standard operating procedures; updating and briefing DRC staff on security situations; supporting the Safety Team Leader in monitoring compliance with Minimum Operating Safety Standards; maintaining an updated emergency contact list and register of key stakeholders; providing timely updates on safety and access risks; contributing to the development of safety SOPs; responding to safety incidents; conducting physical safety assessments; assisting in safety inductions and orientations; conducting fire safety drills; drafting and reviewing incident reports; investigating threats to DRC; and performing any other tasks assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
To be considered for this position, candidates must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and a strategic mindset. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to manage challenging situations tactfully and impartially, provide advice and support to field staff, and possess proven negotiation skills. Strong report writing skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively to meet tight deadlines are also essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree in a relevant field to qualify for this position. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of safety and access management in humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of experience in security management. Candidates should have a solid understanding of security protocols and practices, as well as experience in reporting and data analysis. Familiarity with government issues and the ability to coordinate staff effectively are also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this role. Additionally, proficiency in Dari and Pashto, both spoken and written, is required to facilitate communication with local stakeholders and staff.

Additional Notes:
The position is open only to internal staff of DRC Afghanistan. Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the DRC salary scale. Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and an updated CV, both in the same language and not exceeding four pages.