Safety Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent protection agency established with the mission to protect, advocate for, and promote durable solutions for populations affected by displacement. Since its inception, DRC has been dedicated to addressing the needs of displaced individuals and communities, ensuring their safety and well-being. The organization has been operational in Ukraine since 2014, employing over 800 staff members who work across various sectors including Protection, Livelihoods, Shelter/NFIs, and Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding. DRC's approach involves direct interventions, supporting duty bearers, and collaborating with civil society organizations (CSOs) to enhance the effectiveness of its programs. As the context in Ukraine continues to evolve, DRC is committed to adapting its durable solutions portfolio to meet the changing needs of the affected populations.

Job Overview:
The Safety Officer role is crucial for the development and implementation of DRC's safety risk management systems. This includes creating relevant policies, plans, and procedures tailored to operational areas. The Safety Officer will provide both administrative and technical support to ensure that programs and project activities are executed securely and effectively. The position requires a proactive approach to monitoring the safety landscape, assessing risks, and ensuring that all safety protocols are adhered to. The Safety Officer will also play a key role in training DRC staff and partners on safety measures, thereby fostering a culture of safety within the organization. This position is integral to maintaining the operational integrity of DRC's initiatives in Ukraine, ensuring that all staff and beneficiaries are protected from potential threats.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Safety Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties including: monitoring the evolving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation in assigned operational areas and relaying critical information to relevant staff; collecting, verifying, analyzing, and reporting data that may impact DRC operations; establishing a network of local contacts to facilitate safer access for DRC activities; monitoring staff movements and reporting any irregularities; developing and facilitating safety risk training for DRC personnel; preparing and submitting Safety Incident Reports (SIR); conducting site safety assessments and identifying suitable office spaces, guesthouses, and warehouses; performing regular safety audits; conducting Safety Risk Assessments (SRAs); ensuring appropriate access controls are in place for DRC facilities; drafting standard operating procedures and contingency plans; updating safety briefs and local safety rules; assisting in the procurement of safety equipment; contributing to the development of Safety Improvement Plans; alerting relevant parties in emergencies; supporting the Safety Team Leader in updating the Safety Level System; ensuring compliance with labor protection legislation; providing area-specific safety induction to partners; coaching partners on safety and security; onboarding partners in the DRC alert system; and preparing and facilitating training sessions on safety-related topics.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Safety Officer position, candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree and have at least 2 years of experience in security operations and management, preferably within an NGO context. Candidates should demonstrate a proven ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines. A stable, moral character and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team are essential. Excellent communication skills are required, along with a strong commitment to accountability practices and high personal and professional integrity. Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is necessary, as is experience in negotiating access for humanitarian agencies. Advanced English proficiency and fluency in the Ukrainian language are mandatory.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding the complexities of safety and security management in humanitarian contexts. Additional training in safety, fire, and evacuation procedures, as well as disaster management, is desirable and can enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in security operations and management. This experience should ideally include work within non-governmental organizations (NGOs), where candidates have developed skills in risk assessment, safety training, and emergency response. Candidates should have a track record of effectively managing safety protocols and responding to security incidents in a timely and efficient manner.

Languages:
Fluency in the Ukrainian language is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication within the local context. Advanced proficiency in English is also required, enabling the Safety Officer to engage with international staff and stakeholders effectively. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is initially set for a 3-month probation period, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and performance. The designated duty station for this role is Shostka, Ukraine, with a start date anticipated in April 202

• The salary and conditions will align with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for employees on national contracts. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with a maximum length of four pages. Applications sent via email will not be considered. The closing date for applications is 31 March 2026, and candidates are encouraged to apply promptly, as interviews may be conducted on a rolling basis. DRC reserves the right to select a candidate before the vacancy closes if a suitable candidate is identified.