Social and Behavior Change Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and emphasizes equity, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential. UNICEF employs a diverse workforce and offers opportunities for professional and personal development, along with an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Social and Behavior Change Specialist plays a crucial role in UNICEF's mission by providing technical and operational support for developing a systematic, planned, and evidence-based strategy for Social and Behavior Change (SBC). This position is integral to program development, planning, and implementation, focusing on engaging stakeholders, communities, children, civil society partners, and government counterparts to promote measurable behavioral and social change. The Specialist will work under the guidance of the Programme Manager and is expected to generate and utilize evidence, design and implement programs, advocate for change, build partnerships, and enhance capacities within the community. The role is vital in achieving sustainable results that improve children's rights, survival, and well-being in Burkina Faso.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive SBC strategy that aligns with UNICEF's goals and objectives.
• Conduct research and gather evidence to inform SBC initiatives and measure their impact.
• Collaborate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations, to foster partnerships that enhance SBC efforts.
• Design and facilitate training programs to build the capacity of local partners and stakeholders in SBC methodologies.
• Monitor and evaluate SBC programs to ensure they are effective and meet the needs of the target population.
• Advocate for policies and practices that support SBC initiatives at local, national, and international levels.
• Engage with communities to promote awareness and understanding of SBC principles and practices.
• Prepare reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders and decision-makers.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in fields such as Economics, Public Policy, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, or a relevant technical field. Alternatively, a combination of a First Level Degree (Bachelor) with two additional years of relevant work experience will be accepted in lieu of an Advanced University Degree. A minimum of five years of professional experience in social development program planning, social and behavior change, communication for development, public advocacy, or related areas is required. Relevant experience in a UN system agency or organization is considered an asset, as is experience working in a developing country.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in one of the following fields is required: Economics, Public Policy, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, or another relevant technical field. A combination of a First Level Degree (Bachelor) with two additional years of relevant work experience will be accepted in lieu of an Advanced University Degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of professional experience in one or more of the following areas is required: social development program planning, social and behavior change, communication for development, public advocacy, or another related area. Experience in a UN system agency or organization and working in a developing country is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in French and a good working knowledge of English are required. Knowledge of another official UN language or a local language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The organization offers a wide range of benefits, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must be willing to undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and appointments are subject to medical clearance and visa requirements. UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment process.