ICLA Officer - 5 Open Positions

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization dedicated to assisting people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters. Established in 1946, NRC has grown to employ approximately 15,000 staff members and operates in 40 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people each year, with a commitment to protecting the rights of refugees and displaced persons. NRC's mission is to ensure that displaced individuals can access essential services and support, enabling them to rebuild their lives and regain their dignity.

Job Overview:
The ICLA Officer position is crucial for the implementation of NRC’s Information, Counselling, and Legal Assistance (ICLA) program at the office level. The officer will ensure that ICLA is integrated into all program activities and will be responsible for training and advising staff and partners on ICLA-related matters. The role involves producing data collection, reports, and analyses as required, and providing recommendations on ICLA actions and response mechanisms in consultation with field teams. The ICLA Officer will represent NRC in protection and shelter cluster meetings, ensuring collaboration with relevant partners. Staying updated on local and national news is essential, as the officer will provide briefings to NRC staff on pertinent information and be vigilant about the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security implications of NRC’s activities related to protection and human rights concerns. This position requires a proactive approach to understanding the legal situation for refugees, returnees, and internally displaced persons in Uganda, and assisting in developing and implementing a case management system and database of cases.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The ICLA Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including ensuring that ICLA project activities are implemented according to approved proposals, donor requirements, NRC policies, international standards, and local customs. The officer will act as the focal person for needs assessments and beneficiary selection, overseeing the project cycle from implementation to evaluation. Leading ICLA project activities, the officer will provide advice and information to clients regarding processes involved, conduct awareness sessions, and manage local authorities’ capacity-building programs. The officer will conduct information and counseling sessions on ICLA thematic areas for beneficiaries, assist in conducting needs assessments, and prepare documents containing legal and related information for target communities. Establishing excellent relations with beneficiaries through regular visits and contact is vital, as is documenting findings of needs assessments and preparing relevant reports. The officer will coordinate with other relevant actors and stakeholders, identify training needs for beneficiaries, and assist in conducting research as required. Additionally, the officer will contribute to the development of NRC’s country strategy and manage day-to-day center activities, including finances in line with NRC’s regulations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in law, social studies, development studies, or a relevant field. 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 as a Protection Officer in a humanitarian or recovery context is essential, along with experience working with and implementing projects through local partners. Candidates should have training skills, reporting skills, and budget monitoring experience, as well as experience in research and data analysis. Documented results related to the position’s responsibilities are necessary, along with knowledge of the context in Uganda and the ability to work with government, local authorities, humanitarian actors, and displaced populations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in law, social studies, development studies, or a related field. The equivalent of such qualifications may also be considered, provided they align with the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The ICLA Officer position requires a minimum of three years of relevant work experience, particularly in the areas of protection or human rights within an NGO, legal, or international organization. Experience in humanitarian or recovery contexts, particularly as a Protection Officer, is highly valued. Candidates should also have experience working with local partners and implementing projects effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of local languages is highly desirable. This bilingual capability will enhance communication with beneficiaries and stakeholders, ensuring effective outreach and support.

Additional Notes:
The duty station for this position includes Kyaka, Rwamwanja, Nakivale, Kyangwali, and Oruchinga. The contract is a national contract for 12 months, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability. Frequent travel to project sites is expected. The salary and benefits are based on NRC’s national salary scale, specifically grade

• NRC is committed to equal opportunities and encourages diversity in its workforce, welcoming applications from qualified female candidates, refugees, and persons with disabilities. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, encouraging all employees to share ideas and take responsibility in their roles.