Protection Specialist (Seconded to Partner Organization)

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a humanitarian organization that provides assistance and protection to refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1956, DRC operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on providing support in conflict-affected areas. The organization is dedicated to ensuring the safety and dignity of individuals affected by displacement, and it works to promote durable solutions for refugees and internally displaced persons. DRC employs thousands of staff globally and collaborates with various partners to deliver effective humanitarian assistance.

Job Overview:
The Protection Specialist (Seconded) role is crucial for providing technical support and mentoring to partner organizations involved in Gender Based Violence (GBV) and Child Protection (CP) case management. The position aims to ensure that these organizations implement high-quality, ethical, and safe practices in their operations. The specialist will work closely with the partner organization to enhance their capacity to deliver survivor and child-centered services, aligning with international standards. This role also involves supporting the coordination of activities, ensuring quality assurance, and facilitating a progressive handover of responsibilities as part of the localization process. The Protection Specialist will play a key role in reinforcing systems for referrals, risk mitigation, and the mainstreaming of protection across various activities, thereby contributing to the overall safety and well-being of vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including providing technical oversight and quality assurance for GBV and Child Protection responses. This involves offering daily technical guidance on case management and prevention activities, ensuring that survivor-centered and child-safeguarding principles are consistently applied. The specialist will support the establishment of safe implementation systems, mentor partner staff on case management principles, and ensure strong linkages between GBV and CP case management. Additionally, the role includes capacity strengthening through structured mentoring, co-facilitating training sessions, and contributing to capacity development plans. The specialist will also be responsible for updating referral pathways, facilitating coordination with service providers, identifying emerging protection risks, and ensuring compliance with protection standards. Regular liaison with DRC’s Protection team will be essential to maintain alignment with organizational standards and facilitate information sharing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Development Studies, Gender Studies, or a related field, with a Master’s degree considered an advantage. Demonstrated experience in GBV, child protection, and general protection programming is essential, along with strong technical expertise in these areas. Excellent facilitation, training, and mentoring skills are required, as well as strong coordination and stakeholder engagement abilities. Candidates should have analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent report writing and communication skills, and a solid understanding of protection principles and international frameworks. Experience in humanitarian, refugee, or emergency settings is preferred, along with familiarity with GBV guiding principles and Inter-Agency GBV Minimum Standards. Experience working with UN or Non-Governmental organizations is also desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Development Studies, Gender Studies, or a related field. A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is considered an added advantage, as it may provide deeper insights and knowledge necessary for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in GBV prevention and response programming. This experience should encompass a range of responsibilities related to protection programming, including technical oversight, capacity building, and direct engagement with affected populations. Experience in humanitarian settings, particularly with refugees or internally displaced persons, is highly valued and may enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in this language. Knowledge of local languages spoken by South Sudanese and Congolese refugee communities is considered desirable, as it may facilitate better communication and engagement with the populations served.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is for a duration of 6 months, with a designated duty station in Bidibidi, Uganda. The start date is anticipated to be in May 202

• The salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for national employees. It is important to note that this position is subject to funding approval, and all applicants must submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English. Applications sent via email will not be considered, and the closing date for applications is set for 8th April 202
• DRC emphasizes a merit-based recruitment process and does not solicit money for any part of its recruitment.