Programme Officer (Field Support)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established by the United Nations General Assembly, is dedicated to advocating for the protection of children's rights, meeting their basic needs, and expanding their opportunities to reach their full potential. UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, focusing on saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. In Uganda, UNICEF collaborates with the government to ensure every child survives and thrives, receives quality education, is protected from violence and exploitation, and grows up in a safe and supportive environment.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer (Field Support) position within the Field Operation and Emergency team at the Uganda Country Office (UCO) in Kampala is a critical role aimed at implementing the 2026-2030 UNICEF Country Programme at the Field Office level. The selected candidate will work closely with various sections in Kampala and will be responsible for managing and leading the total programme commitment for the districts previously covered by the Fort Portal office. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to UNICEF's programme work in Health, Nutrition, Child Protection, Education, Social Policy, Social and Behavioural Change, Emergency, and Operations. The officer will collaborate with national and sub-national implementing partners, including District Local Governments, NGOs, UN agencies, and other stakeholders, to advance results for children in the region. The position emphasizes the importance of equity, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential without discrimination.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Localization: Identify, map, and develop strategic partnerships with local actors in the area of responsibility, coordinating technical assistance and support for training programs aimed at institutional capacity strengthening.
• Promote and coordinate upstream work: Support the programme and field operation sections in identifying opportunities to enhance upstream work.
• Programme Development and Management: Assist in the preparation of situation analyses for programme development by collecting and analyzing data and monitoring implementation progress. Identify critical intervention points and administer a transparent monitoring system to analyze socio-political-economic trends.
• Programme Monitoring and Evaluations: Conduct field visits to monitor and assess programme implementation, enabling sections to make informed decisions on necessary corrective actions.
• Vulnerability mapping: Support the identification of acute vulnerabilities in the district and coordinate with local actors.
• Rights-Based and Results-Based Programme Management Approach: Implement a rights-based approach in formulating programme goals and objectives, collaborating with partners to strengthen child rights-based programmes.
• Rights Perspective and Advocacy: Analyze programme-related issues from a children's and women's rights perspective, advocating at community and family levels.
• Partnership, Coordination, and Collaboration: Facilitate partnerships with internal and external counterparts to improve data collection and dissemination, and enhance communication on programme/project status.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong understanding of child rights and development issues, particularly in the context of Uganda. Candidates should possess excellent analytical and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. A demonstrated commitment to UNICEF's mission and values is essential, along with the capacity to navigate complex socio-political environments.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in social sciences, international development, public health, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in child rights, programme management, or related areas are highly desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in programme management, preferably within the UN system or in a similar humanitarian context. Experience working with local governments, NGOs, and community-based organizations is an asset, as is familiarity with monitoring and evaluation frameworks.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Uganda is an advantage, as it enhances communication and engagement with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The position requires flexibility and the ability to work in potentially challenging conditions, emphasizing the need for cultural awareness and adaptability. The living conditions in Kampala are generally adequate, with access to medical facilities, banking, and communication infrastructure, but candidates should be prepared for physical hardships and limited comforts.