Protection Assistant (Psycho-Social Support Assistant)

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent protection agency dedicated to safeguarding, advocating for, and promoting sustainable solutions for populations affected by displacement. Established in 1956, DRC has grown to employ over 800 staff members in Ukraine alone, where it has been operational since 201

• The organization implements emergency responses across various sectors, including Protection, Livelihoods, Shelter/NFIs, and Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding, utilizing direct interventions, support to duty bearers, and partnerships with civil society organizations (CSOs). DRC is committed to adapting its durable solutions portfolio to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves, ensuring that its programs remain relevant and effective in addressing the challenges faced by displaced populations.

Job Overview:
The Protection Assistant (Psycho-Social Support Assistant) will work under the supervision of the Protection Team Leader to deliver high-quality protection activities aimed at vulnerable individuals and communities impacted by the ongoing conflict in Kharkivska and Donetska oblasts. This role involves conducting comprehensive needs assessments, developing actionable plans, and providing safe referrals to necessary services. The Protection Assistant will also be responsible for organizing and facilitating awareness-raising sessions on critical topics related to psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support and gender-based violence (GBV). The position demands close collaboration with various DRC departments and external partners to ensure that support is timely, effective, and centered around the needs of clients, while upholding the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in enhancing the mental well-being of affected populations and ensuring that they have access to the resources they need to cope with their circumstances.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main duties and responsibilities of the Protection Assistant include conducting structured group psychosocial support sessions aimed at fostering mutual support, resilience, and mental well-being among target groups, particularly women and girls. The role also involves developing and facilitating awareness-raising sessions on psychosocial issues and GBV topics, such as stress management and coping strategies. The Protection Assistant will manage cases for survivors of GBV in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and inter-agency GBV case management standards. Additionally, the position requires facilitating referrals to relevant services in coordination with other service providers, conducting ongoing monitoring to assess psychosocial needs, and ensuring proper documentation of data and case information while maintaining strict confidentiality. The Protection Assistant will also contribute to the development and continuous updating of a service mapping system that details available services and assistance within DRC’s operational areas, focusing on GBV and mental health support services.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, candidates must be certified psychology specialists with a commitment to gender equality and a strong interest in preventing and responding to violence against women and girls. The ideal candidate should be comfortable discussing sensitive topics and working with individuals in distress. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work effectively with vulnerable individuals and diverse stakeholders. A strong sense of personal integrity and adherence to confidentiality and ethical standards is also required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with various operating systems is necessary, along with Ukrainian language skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of psychosocial support and the specific needs of vulnerable populations.

Experience:
A minimum of one year of experience in psychology is required, preferably within an NGO context that implements programs in the humanitarian field, social work, or women’s and girls’ empowerment. Experience working with conflict-affected populations is highly desirable, as is the ability to communicate effectively and empathetically with individuals facing distressing situations.

Languages:
Ukrainian language skills are mandatory for this position. Basic English language skills are considered desirable, as they may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered on a contract basis with an initial probation period of three months, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and satisfactory performance. The role is classified at Level I (nm) and is based in Kharkiv. The expected start date for this position is January 202

• Salary and conditions will be aligned with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for national staff. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and an updated CV (not exceeding four pages) in English. Applications sent via email will not be considered. The closing date for applications is set for 12th December 2025, and candidates are encouraged to apply promptly, as interviews may be conducted on a rolling basis. DRC reserves the right to select a candidate before the vacancy closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.