Development Officer

Development Officer

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

February 24, 2026April 10, 2026IslamabadPakistan
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195
  • The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR works closely with governments, NGOs, and other partners to provide assistance and protection to those in need, focusing on sustainable solutions to displacement.

Job Overview:
The Development Officer position within UNHCR's Pakistan Operation is crucial in addressing the complex and protracted refugee situation in the country, particularly concerning Afghan refugees. The role requires a strong technical and managerial background, with a focus on leveraging development partnerships to influence national and provincial development priorities. The incumbent will be responsible for advocating, developing, implementing, and assessing collaboration with various development agencies. This includes engaging in policy dialogue with government counterparts to enhance protection environments and improve access to national services for refugees. The Development Officer will also need to navigate the challenges posed by Pakistan's operational environment, which is affected by both man-made and natural disasters, requiring flexibility and a strategic outlook.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Development Officer will contribute to the commissioning and conducting of research and analysis to interpret long-term trends that enhance opportunities for solutions and inclusion for populations of concern. They will support the operation in planning for resilience and inclusion, facilitating the development of comprehensive multi-year protection and solutions strategies, and identifying development opportunities. The role includes providing technical support for relationship building with development cooperation agencies, fostering partnerships, and influencing policy dialogue with governments. The Development Officer will also assist in developing monitoring systems to track progress towards agreed outcomes and support training activities aimed at capacity building for UNHCR and partner agency staff.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong technical, managerial, and data analysis skills, with a minimum of four years of direct work experience in a large international development institution. They should have experience in local or area-based economic development and a solid understanding of economic growth, governance, and conflict. The role requires excellent interpersonal skills to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government counterparts and development agencies. Prior access to relevant networks is advantageous, and the ability to maintain a mature strategic outlook in response to evolving operational environments is essential.

Educational Background:
The position requires a minimum of an undergraduate degree in fields such as Development Economics, Development Studies, International Relations, Political Science, Law, or other relevant areas. Advanced degrees are preferred and may reduce the required years of experience. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their understanding of the complexities involved in development and humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
The Development Officer should have at least six years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, five years with a graduate degree, or four years with a doctorate. This experience should include work in field operations and a demonstrated understanding of the humanitarian-development nexus, particularly in contexts of forced displacement. Experience in policy dialogue and engagement with national development planning processes is also critical.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station is required if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of local languages is also beneficial. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages will enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a UNOPS LICA10 role and is not remote. The target start date for the position is April 1, 202
  • The role is full-time and involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including government entities and development partners. The incumbent will be expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment, adhering to UNHCR's core values and principles.
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