Assistant Livelihoods Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and employs more than 18,000 staff members worldwide. The organization is dedicated to providing protection and assistance to refugees and displaced persons, working closely with governments, NGOs, and other partners to find durable solutions for those in need.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Livelihoods Officer position is crucial for supporting UNHCR’s operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, particularly in Peshawar. The role involves implementing and monitoring livelihoods and economic inclusion interventions aimed at assisting a significant Afghan refugee population. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Programme Officer, contributing to market-oriented skills development, entrepreneurship support, and financial inclusion initiatives. The position requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including government counterparts, UN agencies, and private sector actors, to ensure that livelihoods programming aligns with protection principles and UNHCR policies. The Assistant Livelihoods Officer will also be responsible for identifying operational gaps, monitoring project implementation, and contributing to contextual analysis to support adaptive programming in a dynamic operational environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Assistant Livelihoods Officer include exploring partnerships to facilitate the economic inclusion of refugees, advocating for their rights to work, and assessing the legal framework affecting their access to employment. The officer will support the implementation of socioeconomic surveys, conduct assessments to identify investment opportunities, and provide technical assistance on livelihoods interventions. Additionally, the role involves monitoring project compliance, tracking deliverables, and ensuring timely follow-up with relevant units. The Assistant Livelihoods Officer will also be responsible for risk management and decision-making in the functional area of work, as well as performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess relevant experience in implementing livelihoods or economic inclusion programs, particularly in displacement or development settings. Familiarity with UNHCR's Cash-Based Interventions (CBI) approaches is advantageous. Strong analytical and reporting skills are essential, along with the ability to operate effectively in fluid operational contexts. Experience in partnership management and understanding market systems affecting refugees' access to employment and financial services is also required. Knowledge of UNHCR’s program management tools is beneficial.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an undergraduate degree in fields such as Business Management, Socio-Economic Development, Economics, International Economics, Rural Development, or Financial Management. Candidates with a graduate degree or doctorate in these fields may also be considered, particularly if they have relevant experience.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree, while those with a graduate degree or doctorate may apply with no prior experience. Experience in facilitating the economic inclusion of vulnerable groups and working with various stakeholders, including private sector and NGOs, is essential. Familiarity with the latest developments in the livelihoods sector and broader UN processes related to the Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Compact on Refugees is desirable.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under UNOPS LICA8 and is not remote. The target start date for the position is April 1, 202

• The role is categorized under a non-family hardship level E, indicating a challenging operational environment. All UNHCR staff members are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment, adhering to the organization's core values and accountability frameworks.