Education Officer

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

• Its mission is to protect and support refugees and displaced persons worldwide, ensuring their rights and well-being. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. The organization aims to safeguard the rights of refugees, provide them with assistance, and seek durable solutions to their plight. UNHCR is committed to promoting inclusive and equitable quality education for all, particularly for refugees and displaced children, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Education Officer position is crucial for supporting and overseeing the implementation of the Refugee Education 2030 strategy, which aligns with the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR). The role involves ensuring that refugee and host community children and youth have access to quality education at all levels, including primary, secondary, and tertiary education. The Education Officer will work closely with various stakeholders, including UNHCR Country Offices, Regional Bureaux, and partners, to advocate for and implement educational objectives that promote equitable inclusion in national education systems. This position requires a strong focus on creating safe learning environments and enabling learners to leverage their education for sustainable futures. The Education Officer will also provide technical support on various educational issues, including early childhood education, learning achievement, and education in emergencies, ensuring that UNHCR's programming aligns with the SDGs, particularly SDG4.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Education Officer will be responsible for translating global education objectives into actionable strategies and guidance, engaging with education stakeholders to foster partnerships, and providing technical advice on UNHCR education programs. Key duties include supporting senior management in advocacy efforts, participating in humanitarian and development sector working groups, and assisting Country Offices in implementing strategies to improve education access and quality. The officer will monitor and support the implementation of education programs, lead education sector coordination in emergencies, and represent UNHCR at various consultations and meetings. Additionally, the Education Officer will identify training needs, develop training materials, and facilitate capacity-building initiatives for UNHCR staff and partners. The role also involves documenting best practices and ensuring effective communication of education-related information within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of six years of relevant experience for a P3/NOC level position, with an undergraduate degree in Education, Social Sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, five years of relevant experience with a graduate degree or four years with a doctorate degree is acceptable. Essential qualifications include demonstrated experience in education program implementation, strong analytical and drafting skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders. Candidates should also have excellent communication and presentation skills, as well as the capacity to work independently with minimal supervision. Desirable qualifications include experience in refugee education programs, knowledge of UNHCR policies, and familiarity with child protection issues.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees such as a Master's or Doctorate are preferred and can substitute for years of experience. Candidates should have a strong foundation in educational theory and practice, particularly in relation to refugee education and inclusive education strategies.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least four years of progressively responsible experience in education, with a focus on program implementation and coordination in humanitarian or development contexts. Experience working with government entities, particularly Ministries of Education, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, including NGOs and international organizations. Field experience in education program implementation is highly valued, as is experience in emergency education response.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of the UN working language of the duty station is required. For National Professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also necessary. Additional language skills, particularly in French, are desirable to support operations in francophone regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role and is temporary, with a target start date of April 1, 2026, and an end date of December 31, 202

• The role is family-type and is based in Nairobi, Kenya. The position is open to all nationals with the right to work in Kenya, and UNHCR does not facilitate work visa applications. The Education Officer will be expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment, adhering to UNHCR's core values and accountability frameworks.