Child Protection Specialist Level 3

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its passionate culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to build careers while serving children and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Child Protection Specialist position at UNICEF Armenia Country Office is designed for a motivated professional with expertise in developing and managing programs that enhance child protection systems and promote children's rights, safety, and well-being. The role involves leading the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of evidence-based and sustainable child protection programs in Armenia. The specialist will provide technical guidance and strategic support to strengthen national child protection systems and services, addressing issues such as violence, abuse, and exploitation faced by children. The position emphasizes community-based and family-focused solutions in alignment with the Convention on the Rights of the Child and UNICEF's priorities. The specialist will coordinate program/project development, manage programs, provide technical and operational coordination, build networks and partnerships, promote innovation, and support program development and strategic advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate program/project development and planning in child protection, leading situation analysis, strategic planning, and program design to ensure alignment with UNICEF’s Child Protection priorities.
• Manage and oversee the effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of child protection programs, ensuring that results are achieved and resources are utilized efficiently.
• Provide technical guidance and operational support to government counterparts, civil society, UN agencies, and other partners, translating UNICEF policies and standards into effective interventions.
• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with government, national and international organizations, donors, and academia to advance child protection priorities.
• Identify and promote innovative approaches and good practices, facilitating knowledge sharing and strengthening the capacity of government and partners.
• Contribute to policy dialogue, advocacy, resource mobilization, and strategic program materials to ensure child protection is integral to national development and humanitarian efforts.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: A Master’s degree or equivalent (Advanced University Degree) in Psychology, International Development, Sociology, Social Science, Human Rights, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">International Law, or related fields.
• Work Experience: A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in Human Rights, Child Protection, Early Childhood Development, Social Development, or related fields.
• Skills: Proficiency in Monitoring and Evaluation, Program Management and Development, Knowledge Management, and Capacity Building.
• Language Requirements: Proficient/Fluent in both English and Armenian. Desirable qualifications include knowledge of another official UN language, especially Russian, and experience in developing countries, humanitarian contexts, and UN operations.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as Psychology, International Development, Sociology, Social Science, Human Rights, or International Law. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of child protection and the rights of children.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant work experience in fields related to Human Rights, Child Protection, Early Childhood Development, or Social Development. This experience should ideally include work in developing countries and humanitarian contexts, as well as familiarity with UN operations and emergency preparedness.

Languages:
Proficiency in both English and Armenian is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of another official UN language, particularly Russian, is considered a valuable asset. Other languages such as Arabic, Chinese, French, or Spanish may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is assessed as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes, requiring additional vetting and assessment. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must comply with medical clearance and vaccination requirements as mandated by UNICEF. The organization does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process and emphasizes the importance of safeguarding children in all its operations.