Protection Officer-PSS

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an international humanitarian organization founded in Denmark in 195

• It assists refugees and internally displaced persons globally by providing emergency aid, advocating for their rights, and working towards sustainable solutions for their future. With over 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers, DRC operates in conflict-affected areas and countries where refugees settle, striving for responsible integration and the possibility of returning home. The organization is guided by its core values of humanity, respect, independence, neutrality, participation, honesty, and transparency, aiming for a dignified life for all displaced individuals.

Job Overview:
The Protection Officer-PSS will work under the technical supervision of the Protection Team Leader and overall supervision of the Protection Manager. This role is crucial for implementing DRC's psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support (PSS) activities, which include conducting assessments, providing counseling, making referrals, and advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations. The officer will manage day-to-day activities, including scheduling, caseload management, and ensuring adherence to DRC's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The position involves delivering non-specialized PSS services, including structured group sessions and individual counseling, aimed at preventing and responding to protection risks faced by affected populations. The officer will also contribute to the integration of protection efforts with other sectors such as Economic Recovery and Emergency response, collaborating with local authorities and communities to enhance service delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Officer-PSS will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: conducting individual assessments to identify psychosocial stressors and needs, and developing intervention plans; planning and delivering structured group PSS sessions and individual counseling; preparing daily plans and materials for sessions; assessing protection issues for individuals needing additional counseling; referring clients to specialists or institutions for further assistance; conducting awareness-raising sessions on prevention; promoting the value of PSS services in communities; closing cases when objectives are met; providing continuous support through follow-up meetings; contributing to reporting and program development; mapping service networks for referrals; and ensuring data protection and confidentiality in all reporting and documentation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 2-3 years of experience in psychological or psychosocial counseling, preferably with internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, or returnees. They should demonstrate strong experience working with vulnerable clients and familiarity with the IASC Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings. The ideal candidate will have problem-solving abilities, a commitment to human rights, and the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment. High professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality are essential, along with experience in conducting qualitative interviews being a strong advantage.

Educational Background:
A university degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field is required. Essential computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office Suite and email, is necessary. Candidates should also possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and a willingness to work extra hours or weekends for emergency cases. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are also important.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in psychological or psychosocial counseling, particularly with vulnerable populations such as IDPs, refugees, or returnees. Candidates should have a proven track record of working effectively in challenging environments and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Languages:
Fluency in Pashto and Dari is required, along with a working level of English. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with clients and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may require travel to field locations. Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the DRC salary scale. Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and an updated CV, both in the same language, as applications without a CV will not be considered.