Programme Officer MHPSS

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 to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the importance of building careers that contribute to the welfare of children and communities globally.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer for Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) will play a crucial role in providing technical advice and support to the country office, government, and key stakeholders. The position involves regular technical assistance to ensure quality assurance in establishing sustainable MHPSS services. The officer will coordinate and implement evidence-based MHPSS programming and interventions, focusing on capacity building initiatives with government agencies, NGOs, and community partners. This role also includes developing and reviewing MHPSS training packages and resources, ensuring robust integration of MHPSS in various programs, and supporting the establishment of a community of practice within the UNICEF Country Office. The officer will be responsible for developing technical notes and policy briefings to inform advocacy efforts and will establish partnerships with relevant organizations to enhance MHPSS initiatives. Additionally, the officer will guide research initiatives and support the development of tools for monitoring and responding to the needs of affected adolescents and families.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical advice and guidance to the country office and government on MHPSS services, ensuring quality assurance and sustainability.
• Support the coordination and implementation of evidence-based MHPSS programming, including capacity building with government and community partners.
• Develop and review MHPSS training packages and resources aligned with national and regional frameworks.
• Establish and maintain partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and UN agencies related to MHPSS.
• Develop technical notes, policy briefings, and presentations to support advocacy for a robust MHPSS system.
• Provide analytical support on trends and policies to inform advocacy strategies.
• Lead resource mobilization efforts related to MHPSS.
• Guide research initiatives, enhancing data collection and analysis methodologies.
• Support the development of tools for monitoring and responding to the needs of adolescents and families affected by adversity. 1
• Engage in additional activities related to MHPSS as agreed with supervisors based on national priorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in mental health and psychosocial programming or a relevant field. A minimum of 2 years of professional experience in establishing mental health and psychosocial programs for children, adolescents, caregivers, and families is required, along with in-depth knowledge of MHPSS programming in development contexts. Relevant experience in fragile settings and humanitarian contexts is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate UNICEF’s core values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability (CRITAS).

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in mental health and psychosocial programming or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to MHPSS initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires at least 2 years of professional experience in setting up or establishing mental health and psychosocial support programs. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in development contexts, particularly with children, adolescents, and families affected by adversity. Experience in fragile settings and humanitarian contexts is considered an asset, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate complex environments and respond to urgent needs.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Bahasa Malaysia is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve working in various contexts, including humanitarian settings. UNICEF promotes flexible working arrangements 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. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and abuse. Background checks will be conducted for all selected candidates, and medical clearance is required for appointments.