ICLA/Protection Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a humanitarian organization that provides assistance, protection, and durable solutions to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Established in 1946, NRC operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on the needs of those affected by displacement. The organization is committed to upholding the rights of displaced individuals and communities, ensuring they have access to essential services and support. NRC employs thousands of staff globally, working in various sectors including education, shelter, and legal assistance, with a mission to help people rebuild their lives after crises.

Job Overview:
The ICLA/Protection Officer position is crucial for the effective implementation of ICLA (Information, Counselling, and Legal Assistance) and Protection activities in accordance with approved proposals and NRC policies. This role serves as a focal point for conducting needs assessments, selecting beneficiaries, and managing projects to ensure high-quality service delivery. The officer will be responsible for supporting beneficiaries through outreach and awareness sessions, enhancing the capacity of local authorities, and advocating for the needs of beneficiaries. The position also involves monitoring policies that affect IDPs, documenting findings, and representing NRC in relevant clusters to promote the rights and well-being of affected communities. The officer will work closely with partners and stakeholders to provide assistance and improve the quality of ICLA/Protection activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The ICLA/Protection Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities including: adhering to NRC policies and guidelines; assisting with the implementation of the support function portfolio; preparing and developing status reports; ensuring proper filing of documents; promoting ideas for improvement; working with partners to assist beneficiaries; suggesting new methods to enhance ICLA/Protection activities; conducting advocacy activities; ensuring alignment of ICLA/Protection activities with approved proposals and donor requirements; overseeing the full project cycle including implementation, monitoring, and evaluation; providing guidance and information to beneficiaries; conducting awareness sessions; applying participatory approaches; maintaining an understanding of the ICLA/Protection context; supporting the development of case management systems; conducting outreach and advocacy initiatives; guiding beneficiaries seeking legal counseling; contributing to needs assessments and research; conducting training sessions; assisting in strategic reviews; monitoring policies affecting IDPs; building relationships with beneficiaries; documenting findings; supporting community mobilization activities; representing NRC in relevant meetings; and performing additional duties as assigned by the ICLA/Protection Team Leader and Area Program Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in law, social studies, development studies, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of three years of work experience with an NGO, legal, or international organization in the area of protection or human rights is required. Experience working on protection and legal assistance projects in humanitarian or recovery contexts is essential, along with previous experience in complex and volatile environments. Candidates should have documented results related to the responsibilities of the position and possess knowledge of their own skills and profile. Proficiency in English is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in law, social studies, development studies, or a relevant field. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the legal frameworks and social dynamics that impact the work of the ICLA/Protection Officer.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant work experience, particularly in the fields of protection or human rights, preferably within an NGO or international organization. Candidates should have experience working on protection and legal assistance projects in humanitarian or recovery contexts, as well as experience in complex and volatile situations. Documented results related to the responsibilities of the position are also necessary to demonstrate capability and effectiveness in similar roles.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for communication and documentation. Additionally, knowledge of the local language is highly desirable, as it facilitates better engagement with beneficiaries and local authorities.

Additional Notes:
This position may involve working in insecure environments, and candidates should be prepared to handle such situations. The role requires strong planning and delivery skills, as well as the ability to empower and build trust with beneficiaries. Effective communication with impact and respect is also a key competency for success in this role. The position may be full-time and could involve international recruitment, depending on the needs of the organization.