National Consultant to support CP programming

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a passionate workforce dedicated to serving children and communities worldwide, ensuring that their work is not just a job but a calling. The organization emphasizes a culture of belonging and growth, coupled with an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The assignment aims to provide professional psychosocial and psychological support to children and caregivers involved in the diversion and restorative justice pilot in Ashgabat and Turkmenabat. This role is crucial in ensuring that children receive the necessary support during their involvement in the justice system. The consultant will engage in case-based psychosocial support, participate in multidisciplinary case coordination with relevant partners, and systematically monitor progress to contribute to child well-being. The consultant's work will ensure adherence to diversion measures and individual case plans, facilitating successful rehabilitation and reintegration of children while maintaining ethical, child-friendly, confidential, and trauma-informed practices. This position is integral to the implementation of the UNICEF Turkmenistan Country Programme Document (CPD) 2026-2030, aligning with the Government's commitments under the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the National Action Plan for the Realization of Children’s Rights in Turkmenistan.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide professional psychosocial support to children and caregivers involved in the diversion and restorative justice pilot.
• Collaborate with MLSP social workers to offer psychological intervention where necessary.
• Participate in multidisciplinary case coordination with partners such as the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) and the Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO).
• Systematically monitor the progress of cases and document findings confidentially.
• Ensure that all practices are ethical, child-friendly, and trauma-informed.
• Contribute to the development and piloting of diversion measures and restorative justice approaches.
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure the protection of children's rights throughout the process.
• Engage in continuous professional development to enhance service delivery.

Required Qualifications:

• A university degree in psychology is required; a master’s degree in psychology is an asset.
• Practical experience in providing professional psychological support is essential.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations, particularly families with children in difficult life situations, is highly desirable.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders are necessary.
• A commitment to ethical practices and child safeguarding is crucial.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a university degree in psychology, with a master's degree being advantageous. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to provide effective psychosocial support to children and caregivers.

Experience:
Candidates should have practical experience in providing psychological support, particularly in contexts involving vulnerable populations. Experience working with children and families in challenging situations is highly valued, as it equips the consultant with the skills needed to navigate complex emotional and social dynamics.

Languages:
Fluency in Russian and Turkmen is mandatory for this position, as these are the primary languages spoken by the target population. A working knowledge of English is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes, requiring additional vetting and assessment, including potential criminal background checks. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must be prepared to undergo medical clearance and meet any vaccination requirements as part of the hiring process. UNICEF does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to safeguarding the rights of every child.