Protection Officer-PSS

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 working towards sustainable solutions for their integration or safe return home. With over 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers, DRC operates in conflict-affected areas and along displacement routes, striving for a dignified life for all displaced individuals. The organization is guided by its core values of humanity, respect, independence, neutrality, participation, honesty, and transparency.

Job Overview:
The Protection Officer-PSS will work under the technical supervision of the Protection Team Leader and the overall supervision of the Protection Manager. This role involves implementing DRC's psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support (PSS) activities, which include conducting assessments, providing counseling, making referrals, and advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations. The officer will manage day-to-day activities, including scheduling, caseload management, and ensuring adherence to DRC's standard operating procedures (SOPs). The position requires collaboration with local authorities and communities to integrate PSS services within DRC's broader protection program, which also includes economic recovery and emergency response efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Officer-PSS will conduct individual assessments to identify psychosocial stressors and needs, developing intervention plans for those identified. Responsibilities include planning and delivering structured group PSS sessions, individual counseling, and outreach activities tailored to diverse age and gender groups. The officer will prepare daily plans and materials for sessions, assess protection issues for individuals needing additional support, and refer clients to specialists as necessary. They will also conduct awareness-raising sessions, manage case closures when objectives are met, and provide ongoing psycho-social support through regular follow-ups. The officer will contribute to reporting, program development, and mapping service networks for referrals, ensuring data protection and confidentiality in all activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have at least 2-3 years of experience in psychological or psychosocial counseling, particularly with internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, or returnees. Strong experience working with vulnerable clients is essential, along with familiarity with the IASC Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings. Candidates should demonstrate problem-solving abilities, professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to human rights. Experience in conducting qualitative interviews is advantageous, as is the ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks effectively.

Educational Background:
A university degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field is required. Essential computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office Suite and email, is necessary. Candidates should possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Willingness to work extra hours and be available for emergency cases is also expected.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in psychological or psychosocial counseling, ideally with vulnerable populations such as IDPs, refugees, or returnees. Candidates should have a proven track record of working effectively in fast-paced environments and managing multiple responsibilities.

Languages:
Fluency in Pashto and Dari is required, along with a working level of English. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication with clients and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time, and 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, as applications without a CV will not be considered.