Technical Advisor I - Accountability System Management

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and its work culture is collaborative and mission-driven, dedicated to improving the lives of the poor globally. The agency welcomes individuals from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to service.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor I for Accountability System Management will provide strategic and technical leadership in the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of accountability systems across CRS projects. This role is crucial in establishing and managing Feedback, Complaint, and Response Mechanisms (FCRM) that are safe, accessible, and appropriate for all community members, particularly vulnerable groups. The advisor will ensure the availability and functionality of FCRM channels, guide partner organizations in strengthening their accountability systems, and support capacity-building efforts throughout the program. The position requires a proactive approach to deploying, maintaining, and closing out the FCRM system in alignment with the project cycle, ensuring that feedback and complaints are addressed in a timely and appropriate manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Technical Advisor I include overseeing the maintenance of FCRM systems, conducting assessments to identify gaps, and improving the utilization of feedback channels. The advisor will develop and enhance FCRM tools, standard operating procedures, workflows, and response mechanisms to ensure clarity and consistency across projects. They will also conduct context analyses to understand the preferences of project participants regarding feedback reporting and communication channels. Additionally, the advisor will ensure that project participants are informed about FCRM channels, identify capacity gaps, and lead the development of training materials for CRS and partner staff. Monitoring and assessing the functionality of feedback mechanisms, collaborating with various teams, and contributing to donor reports and institutional learning are also key responsibilities. The advisor will build strong partnerships with implementing partners and coordinate closely with project teams to ensure effective integration of accountability systems across all program components.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in international relations, management, social accountability, international development, or a related field, along with a minimum of five years of relevant work experience. Professional training in accountability and protection principles is advantageous. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in setting up and implementing accountability systems within international NGOs, particularly in emergency contexts. They should demonstrate progressive experience in accountability-related fields, community engagement, and participatory action planning. Proficiency in facilitating community consultations and working with grassroots stakeholders is essential, as is a minimum of three years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL). Candidates should be adept in using MS Windows and Office applications, data visualization tools, and information management systems.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree in fields such as international relations, management, social accountability, international development, or other related disciplines. This advanced education is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively manage accountability systems within the context of international humanitarian work.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of work experience in establishing and implementing accountability systems, particularly with international NGOs. Candidates should have progressive experience in accountability-related fields, ideally within emergency contexts. Experience in community engagement, participatory action planning, and working with partners is crucial. Additionally, candidates should have hands-on experience in facilitating community consultations and participatory assessments, as well as a minimum of three years of experience in MEAL.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international context of the organization. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Ethiopia may be advantageous and could enhance communication with community members and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered on an indefinite period contingent upon funding availability. It is classified at job grade 9 and reports to the Program Manager II – Accountability Lead. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages are based on the country of employment. The organization prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where CRS operates, and the successful candidate is expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and safeguarding policies.