Protection Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, dedicated to helping refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1956, DRC operates in multiple countries across the globe, focusing on providing assistance in conflict-affected areas. The organization aims to promote the rights of displaced individuals and support them in rebuilding their lives. DRC employs thousands of staff members worldwide and is committed to delivering effective humanitarian aid while ensuring the highest standards of accountability and integrity in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Protection Officer position is crucial for the successful implementation of the Hope, Empowerment, Resilience (H.E.R) project in Ura Woreda, Benishangul-Gumuz. Under the supervision of the Project Manager, the officer will be responsible for delivering quality, rights-based protection services. This includes providing survivor-centered psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support services and promoting positive behavioral changes through the Engaging Men in Accountable Practices (EMAP) approach. The role requires close collaboration with community structures to strengthen community-based protection mechanisms, support inclusive participation, and foster safer environments for women and girls. The Protection Officer will also contribute to building resilience and self-reliance among affected populations by linking psychosocial and protection interventions with broader recovery and empowerment initiatives. The position demands a proactive approach to community engagement and the ability to adapt interventions to meet the specific needs of vulnerable groups.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Officer will lead the implementation and follow-up of community-based protection (CBP), psychosocial support (PSS), and EMAP related activities under the H.E.R. project. Key responsibilities include facilitating two-way communication between communities and stakeholders, promoting active participation of affected populations, identifying capacity-building needs among protection assistants, and organizing tailored training sessions. The officer will conduct psychosocial assessments, provide culturally appropriate counseling, and support the design and implementation of psychosocial interventions. Additionally, the role involves engaging with local structures to enhance coordination and referral pathways for psychosocial and protection services, contributing to the development of context-appropriate IEC materials, and ensuring compliance with DRC’s operational policies and accountability frameworks. The Protection Officer will also prepare timely reports on activities and maintain secure archiving practices for all documentation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 2 years of experience in protection-related work, preferably within humanitarian or development settings. Demonstrated experience in facilitating psychosocial support, community-based protection, or EMAP activities is essential. A good understanding of protection principles, community mobilization, and gender equality approaches is required. Basic skills in data collection, reporting, and proficiency in common digital tools such as Microsoft Office are necessary. Strong interpersonal, communication, and coordination skills are crucial for effective collaboration with community members and partners.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, or other related fields from a recognized institution is required for this position. Additional certifications or licenses related to psychosocial support or protection work will be considered an advantage.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 2 years of relevant experience in protection work, particularly in humanitarian or development contexts. Experience working directly with refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and host communities in participatory community engagement or awareness-raising initiatives is highly valued. The candidate should also demonstrate a good understanding of protection principles and community mobilization strategies.

Languages:
Proficiency in the English language is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of the local language is considered an advantage, as it will facilitate better communication and engagement with the community.

Additional Notes:
The contract length for this position is 1 year, and it is classified as a National Contract under Band H2 – Non-Management. The designation of the duty station is Assosa, and the start date is as soon as possible. The organization is looking to fill 2 positions. Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for National employees. All applicants must upload a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with applications sent via email not being considered. The closing date for applications is November 24, 202

• DRC is committed to achieving gender parity in staffing and encourages women candidates to apply. The organization values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment based on mutual respect.