Durable Solutions (DS) Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is focused on providing durable solutions for refugees and vulnerable host communities. It operates in various regions, including Kenya, and is dedicated to improving access to legal protection and self-reliance for these populations. The organization emphasizes the importance of integrating its core competencies with external stakeholders to ensure effective project implementation and alignment with local needs.

Job Overview:
The Durable Solutions (DS) Project Assistant is tasked with implementing self-reliance project interventions specifically in Dadaab Sub-County, Garissa County, and the surrounding host communities. This role involves providing technical support related to program development and implementation, focusing on improving access to legal protection and durable solutions for refugees and vulnerable host communities. The Project Assistant will be responsible for developing strong working relationships with various stakeholders to ensure that the projects are strategically aligned with the needs of the community and the objectives of the organization. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt programming based on assessments and local advocacy efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Assistant will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Implementing projects focused on self-reliance, legal protection, and durable solutions for refugees and host communities.
• Managing day-to-day project implementation at the field level, developing clear work plans and targets, and monitoring project performance.
• Contributing to the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual reports, including monitoring and evaluation updates.
• Ensuring quality programming by identifying areas for improvement and devising strategies to enhance project implementation.
• Engaging project participants to incorporate their feedback into the design and execution of responses.
• Conducting technical assessments and research to inform program adaptations.
• Actively participating in coordination forums related to protection, child protection, and livelihood working groups.
• Delivering technical training to stakeholders in consultation with the ICLA Specialist.
• Promoting safe and inclusive programming and protection mainstreaming. 1
• Documenting project successes and preparing visibility materials such as success stories and photos. 1
• Performing any other tasks assigned by the Programme Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in law, political science, social science, or a related field. A diploma with relevant experience may also be considered. Additionally, candidates should have relevant experience in humanitarian settings, particularly in protracted crises, and a solid understanding of the refugee situation in Kenya. A minimum of three years of relevant experience in the field of expertise is required, along with at least two years of experience managing legal protection or durable solutions projects in complex contexts. Familiarity with international refugee law and human rights law is essential, as is knowledge of SPHERE standards and other global humanitarian and protection standards. Candidates should also have documented technical competencies related to the responsibilities of the position and experience in proposal and report writing, along with excellent computer skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in law, political science, social science, or a relevant discipline. Candidates with a diploma and significant relevant experience will also be considered. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the legal frameworks and social dynamics that affect refugees and host communities.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience within the field of expertise, with at least two years specifically managing legal protection or durable solutions projects in complex and volatile contexts. Candidates should have a good understanding of the refugee situation in Kenya and experience working in humanitarian settings, particularly in protracted crises. Previous experience in proposal and report writing is also necessary, as well as documented technical competencies related to the responsibilities of the position.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the context of the position. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the Dadaab area may be advantageous and is considered a good-to-have skill for effective communication with project participants and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time, with a focus on project implementation in the field. The role may involve working in a challenging environment, requiring adaptability and resilience. The organization may also offer benefits related to working in humanitarian settings, though specific compensation details are not provided in the job description.