MHPSS Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, working to improve reproductive health and rights, and to reduce maternal mortality and gender-based violence. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly in the areas of family planning, maternal health, and gender equality. UNFPA's mission is to ensure that every individual has access to the necessary resources and support to lead a healthy and fulfilling life, especially in crisis-affected regions like Sudan, where they provide essential humanitarian assistance and support for vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The MHPSS Specialist will play a crucial role in integrating Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) into Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) programming within the UNFPA Sudan Country Office. This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including UNFPA staff, implementing partners, and local authorities, to ensure that MHPSS services are effectively delivered in compliance with international guidelines. The specialist will be responsible for developing MHPSS strategies, training staff, and overseeing the implementation of MHPSS interventions. The role also involves assessing current MHPSS interventions, building capacity among GBV caseworkers, and coordinating with health and protection actors to ensure comprehensive service delivery. The MHPSS Specialist will contribute to the overall mission of UNFPA by addressing the mental health needs of individuals affected by conflict and displacement, particularly women and girls who are at high risk of GBV.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Development of MHPSS programming: Establish an MHPSS strategy for the UNFPA Sudan Country Office, train MHPSS Analysts, and oversee the implementation of the plan. Contribute to the design of information, education, and communication materials to support MHPSS interventions. Supervise MHPSS Analysts and coordinate with GBV and SRH Program teams to standardize MHPSS services. Develop tools to ensure compliance with international guidelines for MHPSS interventions.
• Capacity building and Assessment: Assess current MHPSS interventions and staff knowledge among UNFPA partners. Develop training and mentoring plans for GBV caseworkers and case managers. Facilitate capacity-building training on psychosocial first aid and other interventions to improve the response to MHPSS needs.
• Partnerships and Coordination: Actively participate in inter-agency coordination groups for GBV, SRH, and MHPSS. Contribute to strategic planning and response efforts from the MHPSS perspective. Coordinate with health and protection actors to incorporate MHPSS services into one-stop service centers and safe spaces for women and girls.
• Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting: Document training and supervision activities, report on training effectiveness, and develop monitoring tools for MHPSS interventions. Conduct supportive supervision visits to service centers and produce regular progress reports.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced degree in psychology, social work, clinical psychology, mental health, or related fields is required. The candidate must have at least 5 years of specialized experience in psychosocial support interventions, particularly in relation to GBV. Experience in GBV/MHPSS in a humanitarian context is highly desirable. The candidate should demonstrate knowledge of PM+, MhGAP, and IASC Guidelines on MHPSS in Emergencies, as well as experience in training and supervising non-professional counseling staff. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work in diverse cultural environments are essential, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, for data organization and analysis.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree specializing in psychology, social work, clinical psychology, mental health, or other related areas. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of mental health and psychosocial support in emergency settings, particularly in relation to gender-based violence and reproductive health.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of specialized experience in psychosocial support interventions, particularly as they relate to gender-based violence. Experience in a humanitarian context is a significant advantage, as is demonstrated knowledge of relevant guidelines and frameworks for MHPSS. Candidates should have a proven track record in training, supervising, and supporting non-professional counseling staff, as well as the ability to work effectively within a team and manage a demanding workload.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and Arabic is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with diverse stakeholders and for the delivery of services in a multilingual context.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. The role is critical in addressing the mental health needs of individuals affected by conflict and displacement in Sudan. Candidates should be prepared for a challenging work environment and demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of UNFPA. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.