Emergency Program Manager I

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established in 1943, CRS has been dedicated to saving, protecting, and transforming lives in need across more than 100 countries. The organization has been active in Jerusalem, West Bank, and Gaza (JWBG) since 1961, managing various programs through its field offices located in Jerusalem, Gaza, Ramallah, and Bethlehem. CRS focuses on a range of emergency strategies in Gaza, including security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, emergency livelihoods, shelter, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), cash assistance, and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support, demonstrating its commitment to addressing the needs of the poor and vulnerable populations in the region.

Job Overview:
As the Emergency Program Manager I based in Gaza, you will play a crucial role in managing the emergency response programming. This includes overseeing grant management and supporting the design and implementation of projects that align with Catholic Relief Services’ mission. Your expertise in management and program delivery will be vital in ensuring that the organization provides high-quality programming that effectively meets the needs of the affected populations. You will be expected to lead various project cycles, from design to implementation and close-out, ensuring adherence to CRS program quality principles, donor requirements, and best practices. Your role will also involve fostering team dynamics, coaching project staff, and promoting a culture of learning and improvement within the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your responsibilities will include supporting all emergency projects throughout their lifecycle, ensuring efficient and effective implementation. You will manage project design, start-up, implementation, and close-out phases, ensuring compliance with CRS standards and donor requirements. You will also be responsible for managing team dynamics, providing coaching, and contributing to the recruitment of project staff. Analyzing project performance data in accordance with MEAL policy will be a key part of your role, as will proactively identifying and addressing implementation challenges. You will coordinate the identification of staff capacity needs and provide technical assistance to partner organizations to enhance project quality. Additionally, you will oversee financial and material resources relevant to project needs, ensuring their efficient use.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, you must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in International Development or International Relations. A minimum of 2-3 years of relevant field-based experience in coordinating or managing light to moderately complex projects is required, preferably with an international NGO. A Master’s Degree and grant management experience in emergency programming are highly desirable. Experience in complex conflict environments and familiarity with MEAL skills will be advantageous. You should also have strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, along with excellent relationship management skills to work effectively with diverse groups.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s Degree in International Development or International Relations. A Master’s Degree is preferred and would enhance your candidacy, particularly if it is related to emergency programming or humanitarian response.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant field-based experience in coordinating or managing projects. This experience should ideally be with an international NGO and involve working in emergency programming or similar contexts. Experience in complex conflict environments is preferred, as it will provide valuable insights into the challenges faced in such settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage, as it will facilitate communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Gaza and does not involve supervisory responsibilities. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages are tailored based on the country of employment. The organization fosters a collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on improving the lives of the poor globally. CRS is committed to safeguarding vulnerable populations and expects all staff to adhere to its Code of Conduct. The successful candidate will be expected to sign and comply with this code, reflecting CRS's dedication to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially children and vulnerable adults.