Operations Associate (Education)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, which stands for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Established in 1950, UNHCR is dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons worldwide. The organization operates in over 130 countries, with a mission to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country. UNHCR works to safeguard the rights of refugees, support their integration into host communities, and promote durable solutions for their plight. The organization is committed to providing assistance and protection to millions of people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence. UNHCR's work is guided by law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and humanitarian principles, and it collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Operations Associate (Education) position is a critical role within UNHCR, focusing on the implementation and coordination of education programs for refugees and host communities in Zimbabwe. The incumbent will report directly to the Head of National Office in Zimbabwe while also collaborating closely with the Senior Operations Officer and the Programme Unit at the Multi-Country Office. This position is essential for overseeing the effective delivery of education initiatives, particularly in the Tongogara Refugee Settlement, which hosts a significant number of refugees. The role involves working with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, to ensure that education programs align with national policies and frameworks. The Operations Associate will be responsible for monitoring and reporting on the progress of education interventions, ensuring that they meet the needs of both refugee and host community learners. This position also emphasizes the importance of integrating education with other social services and fostering a collaborative environment among partners and government entities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Operations Associate (Education) include coordinating and monitoring the implementation of education programs on a day-to-day basis. This involves setting up training sessions, developing delivery plans, and preparing progress reports for national education authorities. The incumbent will ensure that educational content aligns with the national curriculum by monitoring resources on the PFF platform and ensuring coherence in content creation. Participation in local humanitarian and development sector working groups is also a key responsibility, as it helps amplify the needs and capacities of refugees. The Operations Associate will liaise with external partners, including the Ministry of Education, district authorities, UN agencies, and NGOs, to enhance the inclusion of social services in education programs. Additionally, the role requires providing administrative and operational support across various program activities, monitoring child protection, gender-based violence, and community services, and advocating for the integration of these concerns into planning and programs. The incumbent will also support design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, resource mobilization, and implementation, providing regular updates on achievements and challenges faced in the field.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Operations Associate (Education) position include a strong understanding of education systems, particularly in the context of refugee and host community integration. Candidates should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with various stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs, and community members. Proficiency in project management and monitoring and evaluation techniques is essential, as the role involves overseeing the implementation of education programs and ensuring their alignment with national priorities. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to promoting inclusive education and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly children affected by displacement.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Operations Associate (Education) position should have a relevant educational background, typically a bachelor's degree in education, social sciences, international development, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in education or refugee studies may be advantageous. A strong academic foundation in educational policy, program design, and implementation is crucial for success in this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience in education programming, particularly in humanitarian or development contexts. Experience working with refugees or displaced populations is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successfully managing education projects, collaborating with diverse stakeholders, and achieving measurable outcomes in educational settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Operations Associate (Education) position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNHCR and with external partners. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zimbabwe, such as Shona or Ndebele, is considered an asset and may enhance the incumbent's ability to engage effectively with the communities served.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a UNOPS LICA6 role, indicating a level of seniority and responsibility within the organization. The target start date for the position is March 16, 2026, and the application deadline is set for March 11, 202

• The role is not remote and requires the incumbent to work on-site in Harare, Zimbabwe. The position is full-time and may involve travel to various locations within Zimbabwe to oversee education programs and engage with stakeholders.