Humanitarian Access and Safety (HAS) Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization dedicated to helping people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. Established in 1946, NRC operates in over 40 countries worldwide, employing approximately 15,000 staff members. The organization focuses on providing life-saving assistance and long-term support to millions of displaced individuals each year, with a significant presence in the Middle East, including over 3,000 staff dedicated to aiding those affected by conflict in Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Libya, and Palestine. NRC's humanitarian interventions are based on its expertise in various core competencies, including Shelter, Education, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), Livelihoods and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security, and Information Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA).

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Access and Safety (HAS) Adviser plays a crucial support role to the HAS Manager, focusing on safety and security, crisis management, and access within the NRC country office. This position involves providing technical advisories to HAS teams in Gaza and the East Jerusalem/West Bank Area Offices. The adviser will be responsible for developing and updating Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) strategies, plans, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). They will also contribute to the preparation of Access and Engagement strategies, Actor Mapping, and reporting on access challenges. A key aspect of the role includes advising on safety mitigation measures to ensure secure program access. Additionally, the HAS Adviser will support the HAS Manager in coordinating and implementing tailored training courses for both the country office and area offices, ensuring that staff are well-equipped to handle the complexities of humanitarian access and safety in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Humanitarian Access and Safety (HAS) Adviser include advising the HAS Manager on the implementation of the NRC Global HAS Management System at the country level. The adviser will provide information and analysis to assist in preparing reports as required by management. They will develop status reports for the country level and provide technical support in recruiting HAS staff at both the country and area office levels. The adviser will also conduct inductions for international staff arriving in the mission area, ensuring they are well-informed about the security context. Furthermore, the adviser will analyze and forecast key security and access developments, providing the HAS Manager with insights into NRC exposure, access challenges, and emerging threats. They will contribute to the development and maintenance of country HAS documents, procedures, guidance, and tools, including strategic proposals for the HAS budget. The adviser will oversee and conduct Security Risk Assessments (SRAs) and access assessments, advising the HAS Manager on relevant mitigation measures. They will also support training and capacity development for NRC staff and partners in access, safety, and security, and work with the Area HAS team to consolidate inputs for advocacy products, ensuring effective messaging based on solid analysis and data collection.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Humanitarian Access and Safety (HAS) Adviser position must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in non-profit or NGO work within international humanitarian assistance programs. A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required. Candidates should have advanced knowledge of communications technology, including satellite communications and cell phone systems. Attention to detail and the ability to complete paperwork accurately are essential. Previous experience in the region or area of operations is preferred, along with experience working with civilian and military interlocutors. Knowledge of Arabic and/or Hebrew is considered a plus. Candidates should have experience in risk management with implementing partners and at least one year of professional experience in a high-risk context. Familiarity with the local geography and the ability to read and interpret maps, as well as proficiency in using Google Maps or similar applications, are important. The ability to structure thoughts and summarize situations accurately under time pressure is also necessary, along with troubleshooting skills for electrical, radio, and computer systems.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Humanitarian Access and Safety (HAS) Adviser position includes a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of humanitarian access and safety, as well as the operational context in which NRC operates. Candidates with advanced degrees or specialized training in security management, humanitarian studies, or related fields may have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in non-profit or NGO work, specifically within international humanitarian assistance programs. Candidates should have substantial experience in high-risk contexts, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex security environments. Previous experience in the region or area of operations is highly desirable, as it provides valuable insights into the local dynamics and challenges faced by humanitarian organizations. Experience working with both civilian and military interlocutors is also beneficial, as it enhances the adviser's ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all applications and communications will be conducted in English. Knowledge of Arabic and/or Hebrew is considered a significant advantage, as it facilitates communication with local communities and stakeholders in Palestine and Jordan. Proficiency in these languages can enhance the adviser's effectiveness in assessing security situations and engaging with local actors.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Jerusalem or Amman, and candidates must have the legal right to work in either Palestine or Jordan, as NRC is unable to provide visa sponsorship. The role involves approximately 20% travel to the Gaza Area Office, West Bank Field Offices, and other project sites as necessary. The salary for this position is classified as Grade 8 on NRC's salary scale. NRC is committed to diversity and equal opportunities, ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and dignity. The organization fosters a culture of empowerment, encouraging employees to share ideas and take responsibility for their work. NRC emphasizes safeguarding and expects all employees to contribute to a safe environment, free from exploitation and harassment.