Child Protection Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established 70 years ago, operates in 190 countries and territories with a mission to promote children's survival, protection, and development. As the world's largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF focuses on child health, nutrition, education, and protection from violence and exploitation. The organization is funded entirely by voluntary contributions from individuals, businesses, foundations, and governments.

Job Overview:
The Child Protection Specialist position is crucial for the UNICEF programme in Tanzania, which emphasizes monitoring emerging trends affecting children and leveraging evidence-based strategies to enhance the quality of services available to them. The role involves supporting the government in reforming child protection systems, particularly in transitioning from institutional to family-based care. The specialist will work closely with various stakeholders to ensure that children have access to a robust national protection system that effectively prevents and responds to violence and harmful practices. This position requires a blend of technical expertise and administrative skills to facilitate program development, implementation, and evaluation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Child Protection Specialist will report to the Child Protection Specialist in Dodoma and will be responsible for leading various technical and administrative tasks. Key responsibilities include:

• Providing technical support to the government in developing and implementing alternative care programs, focusing on family-based care and deinstitutionalization.
• Advocating for the needs of children with disabilities within the alternative care reform process.
• Strengthening the social welfare workforce through capacity building initiatives for Social Welfare Officers and implementing the Social Welfare Roadmap.
• Supporting cross-sectoral inclusion efforts for children with disabilities.
• Enhancing child protection system strengthening and care reform in UNICEF focus regions, including budgeting and planning with local and national governments, managing funding requests, and conducting field monitoring visits.
• Engaging in UNV activities to promote volunteerism and contributing to UNV publications and initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of child protection issues, particularly in the context of alternative care systems. They should demonstrate excellent technical skills in program development and implementation, as well as strong analytical and reporting abilities. The role requires effective communication and interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with government officials and community stakeholders. Additionally, candidates should exhibit a commitment to UNICEF's mission and values, including accountability, professionalism, and adaptability.

Educational Background:
A degree in social work, child development, public health, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in child protection or social welfare are highly desirable and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the position.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in child protection, social welfare, or related fields. Experience working with government agencies and knowledge of the Tanzanian context regarding child protection systems will be advantageous. Familiarity with international child protection standards and practices is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in Kiswahili is highly desirable. Knowledge of additional local languages may be beneficial and enhance communication with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Dodoma, Tanzania. The contract duration and specific terms of employment will be discussed during the interview process. The role may involve some travel within the country to support program implementation and monitoring activities. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UNICEF's policies and standards.