ICLA Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 employees, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving assistance and long-term support to millions of individuals each year. The organization is dedicated to advocating for the rights of displaced persons and works to influence policies that protect these vulnerable populations. NRC is committed to safety and well-being, fostering a positive work culture that values empowerment, support, and a sense of belonging among its employees. The organization emphasizes accountability and inclusivity, ensuring that all employees adhere to its core values and ethical standards.

Job Overview:
The ICLA Specialist position at NRC is a pivotal role focused on driving the technical development and strategic direction of the Information, Counselling, and Legal Assistance (ICLA) core competency in Niger. The specialist will be responsible for ensuring quality assurance in ICLA programming, co-leading the Housing, Land, and Property (HLP) Working Group, and supporting actions under the civil documentation coordination framework. The role requires a proactive approach to developing ICLA strategies and technical guidance that align with both regional and global priorities. The specialist will also contribute to fundraising efforts, develop and revise funding proposals, and ensure compliance with contractual commitments. This position is crucial for enhancing the legal protection of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and other crisis-affected populations, facilitating their access to essential rights and services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The ICLA Specialist will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing and implementing the ICLA strategy for Niger, ensuring it aligns with regional and global strategies; providing technical guidance and support to field teams implementing ICLA programming; leading the development of Macro Logframes and ensuring high technical quality in project implementation; contributing to fundraising efforts by developing and revising funding proposals and budgets; identifying trends and donor priorities to inform program development; ensuring compliance with contractual commitments and maintaining synergies in project implementation; providing training, oversight, and mentoring to field teams; and actively participating in coordination meetings with external actors to enhance collaboration and effectiveness in addressing the needs of displaced populations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the ICLA Specialist position must possess a Bachelor’s degree in law, human rights, international relations, political sciences, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in protection, legal protection, and specifically in HLP and LID issues within the context of Niger is required. Applicants should have documented results related to the responsibilities of the position, experience in coordination and liaison with external actors, and familiarity with IDP and refugee-related programs. A strong understanding of humanitarian principles, minimum protection standards, and the application of these standards to vulnerable communities is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate expertise in HLP rights and knowledge of international refugee and human rights law.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the ICLA Specialist position includes a Bachelor’s degree in law, human rights, international relations, political sciences, or an equivalent field. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the legal frameworks and principles that govern the rights of displaced persons and for effectively implementing ICLA programming.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in protection and legal assistance, specifically focusing on housing, land, and property rights, as well as legal identity issues. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in humanitarian contexts, particularly in Niger, and should be familiar with the challenges faced by IDPs and refugees. Experience in coordinating with external stakeholders and managing complex projects is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in French, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, candidates should have a working knowledge of English at a B1-B2 level, which will facilitate communication and collaboration in an international context. Proficiency in other languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The ICLA Specialist position is based in Niamey, Niger, and is offered as a fixed national or international contract for a duration of 12 months. The role may require travel of up to 30% to various field locations. The salary and benefits for this position are classified at grade 9 on NRC’s salary scale, which includes accompanying terms and conditions. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization fosters a culture of empowerment and encourages employees to share ideas and take initiative in their roles.