Child Protection Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF has a strong presence in The Gambia, working closely with the government to deliver essential services for children and to strengthen national laws and policies since 1965.

Job Overview:
The Child Protection Specialist role at UNICEF involves providing technical guidance and management support throughout the programming processes. The specialist is expected to facilitate the administration and achievement of sustainable contributions to national and international efforts aimed at creating a protective environment for children. This includes ensuring children's rights to survival, development, and well-being as established under the Convention on the Rights of the Child and other international frameworks. The position requires a proactive approach to program/project development, management, monitoring, and delivery of results, as well as building partnerships and capacity within the community.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the development and planning of programs/projects related to child protection.
• Manage and monitor program implementation to ensure delivery of results.
• Provide technical and operational support to facilitate effective program implementation.
• Build networks and partnerships with stakeholders to enhance program reach and effectiveness.
• Engage in innovation, knowledge management, and capacity building initiatives to strengthen child protection efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in international development, human rights, psychology, sociology, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, or a relevant social science field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in social development planning and management, particularly in child protection areas, is required. Familiarity with emergency contexts and experience in program development within a UN agency are considered assets.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in fields such as international development, human rights, psychology, sociology, international law, or other relevant social sciences is mandatory for this position.

Experience:
At least 5 years of relevant work experience in social development planning and management, specifically in child protection-related areas, is required. Experience in both development and humanitarian contexts is considered an added advantage, as is familiarity with emergency situations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile for the position.

Additional Notes:
The position is open to nationals of The Gambia only, except for internal UNICEF candidates who are legally permitted to work in the country. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks, and appointments are subject to medical clearance and compliance with vaccination requirements.