Protection Officer – CPB & HDP

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, dedicated to helping displaced people and communities affected by conflict and disaster. Established in 1956, DRC operates in numerous countries around the globe, providing assistance to refugees, internally displaced persons, and vulnerable communities. The organization focuses on protection, livelihoods, and community engagement, ensuring that the needs of the most vulnerable populations are met. DRC employs thousands of staff worldwide, working in various sectors to deliver effective humanitarian aid and support. The organization is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in its operations, ensuring that all interventions are conducted in accordance with international humanitarian principles and best practices.

Job Overview:
The Protection Officer – CPB & HDP will play a crucial role in the Danish Refugee Council's emergency response efforts in Hudet, Somali region. This position is designed for a highly qualified individual who will be responsible for implementing quality protection and peacebuilding interventions. The officer will work under the supervision of the Protection Team Leader and will be expected to deliver psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support, conduct rapid protection assessments, and engage in conflict sensitization activities. The role requires close collaboration with various team members, including community mobilizers and other sector teams, to enhance DRC’s protection and HDP programming. The officer will also be responsible for ensuring that all activities align with DRC Ethiopia's protection strategy and adhere to minimum standards for protection interventions. This position is vital for addressing the needs of communities affected by displacement and ensuring that protection services are accessible and effective.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: conducting Rapid Protection Assessments alongside team members to ensure ethical data collection; contributing to the targeting and beneficiary selection processes; supporting the distribution of multi-purpose cash and dignity kits to displaced communities; establishing mobile protection centers to enhance access to protection services in underserved areas; developing and regularly updating service mapping and referral pathways; managing referrals to and from other partners and sectors; coordinating with authorities and partners to ensure effective service delivery; delivering individual and group psychosocial support sessions; facilitating capacity-building initiatives on psychosocial support and psychological first aid; forming and training inclusive peacebuilding committees; conducting conflict sensitization and awareness sessions; adhering to all protection guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures; monitoring, reporting, and evaluating protection activities; and carrying out any additional tasks assigned by the Protection Team Leader.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 2 years of experience in an entry to mid-level position within humanitarian protection or a relevant social service field. Experience in the Somali region is strongly preferred, along with a proven track record in the direct implementation of community-based protection and peace-building activities. Applicants should demonstrate a strong understanding of core protection concepts, prevention and response strategies, and ethical data collection protocols. The ability to identify and respond to the needs of vulnerable individuals based on protection risks, age, gender, and diversity analysis is essential. Strong planning, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills are required, as well as the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team. Candidates should exhibit integrity, a strong work ethic, and the capacity to meet deadlines under pressure. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel, is mandatory, and familiarity with Kobo and other data collection tools is desirable.

Educational Background:
A university degree in social work, social sciences, law, or a related field from a recognized institution is required for this position. Relevant certifications or licenses that enhance the candidate's qualifications in the field of protection or social services will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 2 years of relevant experience in humanitarian protection or a related social service field. Experience working in the Somali region is highly preferred, as it demonstrates familiarity with the local context and the specific challenges faced by communities in this area. Candidates should have a proven record of community engagement and consultation, including conducting assessments, trainings, workshops, and awareness sessions.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is essential for this position. Additionally, proficiency in the Affan Oromo language is strongly preferred, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and enhance the effectiveness of protection interventions.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered on a national contract basis with a contract length of 7 months. The designation of the duty station is Hudet, Somali region. The start date for this position is as soon as possible. Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for National employees. The organization is committed to achieving gender parity in staffing and encourages women candidates to apply to bridge the gender gap. DRC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, creating an inclusive environment based on mutual respect for all employees. Applications must include a cover letter and an updated CV, not exceeding four pages, in English. Applications sent via email will not be considered, and the closing date for applications is December 16, 2025.