National Volunteer – Peacebuilding & DRR Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
VSO is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting volunteering as a powerful and practical means to combat poverty and inequality. Established with the mission to create lasting change through volunteering, VSO operates in some of the world’s poorest and most fragile regions. The organization believes in empowering individuals rather than merely providing aid, working alongside volunteers and partners to facilitate sustainable development. VSO's approach, known as Volunteering for Development (VfD), prioritizes the most marginalized communities, fostering active citizenship that drives local change and achieves sustainable development goals long after projects conclude. VSO has a rich history grounded in evidence and learning, which informs its strategies and interventions across various countries.

Job Overview:
The National Volunteer – Peacebuilding & DRR Advisor plays a crucial role in implementing conflict-sensitive peacebuilding and disaster risk reduction initiatives as part of the RECAP project. This position is centered on enhancing community-based peace mechanisms, improving preparedness for climate-related and disaster-related shocks, and fostering peaceful coexistence and resilience among cross-border communities, particularly around Moyale, Ethiopia. The advisor will work closely with local communities to identify their needs and develop strategies that promote stability and resilience in the face of challenges. This role requires a deep understanding of the local context and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders to facilitate positive change.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the implementation of peacebuilding and disaster risk reduction strategies under the RECAP project.
• Strengthen community-based peace mechanisms to enhance local conflict resolution capacities.
• Collaborate with local stakeholders to assess vulnerabilities and develop preparedness plans for climate and disaster-related shocks.
• Promote peaceful coexistence among communities, particularly in cross-border areas.
• Facilitate training and capacity-building workshops for community members on peacebuilding and disaster risk reduction.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and adjust strategies as necessary.
• Engage with local authorities, NGOs, and community leaders to foster partnerships and collaborative efforts.
• Document and share best practices and lessons learned from the project implementation.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of peacebuilding and disaster risk reduction principles.
• Experience working in conflict-affected or fragile contexts.
• Proven ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Commitment to VSO’s values and mission.

Educational Background:
A degree in social sciences, international development, peace studies, or a related field is preferred. Additional certifications in peacebuilding or disaster risk reduction would be advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in peacebuilding, disaster risk reduction, or community development is required. Experience working with marginalized communities and in cross-border contexts is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages, particularly Oromia, and familiarity with the customs of the communities in the project areas is highly desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time volunteer role, and while the salary is not specified, volunteers will receive an allowance in local currency to cover reasonable living expenses. Accommodation will be basic, reflecting the organization's work in some of the poorest communities. VSO promotes equal opportunities and values a diverse workforce, and reserves the right to close the job early if a sufficient number of applications are received. The application process is free of charge, and any fraudulent requests for fees should be reported.