Senior Community Engagement Associate-DRR

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and has since been dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. With a mission to assist governments and migrants alike, IOM operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff members. In Malawi, IOM has been active since 2014, focusing on various migration-related issues, including disaster risk management, in collaboration with governments, UN agencies, and NGOs. The organization aims to strengthen systems and capacities for disaster risk reduction and climate resilience, particularly in the context of climate-induced displacement.

Job Overview:
The Senior Community Engagement Associate-DRR will play a pivotal role in the Regional Responses to Climate Displacements in Sub-Saharan Africa (RE2CLID) project. This project is designed to enhance the resilience and self-reliance of Displacement-Affected Communities (DACs) in Malawi, who are at risk from disasters, climate change, and environmental degradation. The successful candidate will work closely with the Chief of Mission and the Disaster Risk Reduction Officer, ensuring that IOM's strategies are effectively implemented and managed. The role requires building strong relationships with the community, facilitating communication, and organizing events that promote IOM's goals related to disaster risk reduction, human mobility, and climate change adaptation. The position demands a proactive approach to community engagement, ensuring that the voices of vulnerable populations are heard and considered in decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Community Outreach and Relationship Building: Engage with community members, groups, and leaders in target districts; maintain strong relationships with stakeholders; organize community meetings and workshops.
• Communication and Information Dissemination: Develop and distribute communication materials; ensure effective communication with diverse audiences.
• Needs Assessment and Program Development: Support community needs assessments; develop tools for program development; implement community engagement plans.
• Advocacy and Representation: Represent IOM in the community; advocate for community needs; facilitate participation in decision-making processes.
• Event Planning and Management: Plan and coordinate community events; ensure inclusivity and accessibility; manage logistics and resources.
• Reporting and Evaluation: Monitor and evaluate community engagement activities; prepare reports on progress and impact; use data to improve strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in social science, Community Development, Sociology, Development Communication, Gender and Development Studies, or related fields from an accredited institution. A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in relevant areas is required. Candidates should demonstrate experience in disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, and community development, preferably within an international NGO context. Experience working with vulnerable groups such as migrants, refugees, and internally displaced persons is essential, along with familiarity with international humanitarian organizations and multi-cultural settings. Proficiency in participatory methods is an added advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as social science, Community Development, Sociology, Development Communication, or Gender and Development Studies. The degree must be from an accredited academic institution, ensuring that candidates have a solid theoretical foundation to support their practical experience in community engagement and disaster risk reduction.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in areas related to disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, and community development. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in community development, particularly within international non-governmental organizations. Experience with vulnerable populations, including migrants and refugees, is crucial, as is familiarity with the operations of international humanitarian organizations. Additionally, experience in participatory methods will be considered an advantage, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to engage communities effectively.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international context of IOM. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Malawi may also be beneficial for effective community engagement and communication.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve working in a dynamic environment that requires adaptability and flexibility. The role is focused on community engagement within Malawi, and candidates should be prepared to work closely with diverse populations, including vulnerable groups. Compensation and benefits details are not specified in the job ad, but candidates can expect a competitive package commensurate with their experience and qualifications.