Psychosocial Support (PSS) Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent humanitarian organization that has been operational since 195

• Founded in Denmark, DRC has expanded its reach globally, employing over 7,000 staff and engaging around 8,000 volunteers. The organization is dedicated to assisting refugees and internally displaced persons by providing emergency aid, advocating for their rights, and facilitating sustainable solutions for their integration or return. DRC operates in conflict-affected areas and along displacement routes, working closely with local communities to ensure responsible and effective support. The organization's mission is to promote a dignified life for all displaced individuals, guided by core values such as humanity, respect, independence, neutrality, participation, honesty, and transparency.

Job Overview:
The psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (PSS) Officer will play a crucial role in implementing DRC's PSS activities under the technical supervision of the PCM and PSS Supervisor, and the line management of the Protection Team Leader. This position involves conducting household and community assessments, providing counseling support, making referrals, and advocating for the rights of vulnerable individuals. The PSS Officer will be responsible for delivering non-specialized PSS services, which include structured group sessions, individual counseling, and awareness-raising activities within targeted communities. The role requires managing day-to-day activities, including scheduling, caseload management, and ensuring compliance with DRC's PSS standard operating procedures (SOPs) and guidelines. The PSS Officer will also contribute to the integration of PSS within DRC's broader Protection program, collaborating with local authorities and communities to enhance the effectiveness of interventions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The PSS Officer's responsibilities include conducting individual assessments and protection risk assessments to identify psychosocial stressors and needs, and developing intervention plans for affected individuals. They will plan, prepare, and deliver structured group PSS sessions and individual counseling in accordance with DRC SOPs. Establishing trusting relationships with clients while maintaining confidentiality is essential. The PSS Officer will prepare daily plans for sessions, create appropriate materials, and conduct awareness-raising sessions to promote PSS services. They will assess protection issues for individuals needing additional counseling, develop case plans, and provide continuous psychosocial support through follow-up meetings. The role also involves contributing to reporting, program development, and mapping service networks for referrals. The PSS Officer will ensure data protection and confidentiality in all reporting and documentation processes, and perform other duties as required to support the protection program.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 2-3 years of experience in psychological or psychosocial counseling, preferably with internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, or returnees. Strong experience working with vulnerable clients is essential, along with familiarity with the IASC Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings. The ideal candidate should demonstrate problem-solving abilities, a commitment to human rights, and professionalism. Experience in conducting qualitative interviews is advantageous. The ability to manage multiple tasks, work under pressure, and make sound judgments is crucial. Candidates should be willing to travel to field locations and work extra hours when necessary.

Educational Background:
A university degree in Psychology or Social Work is required, or a diploma/certificate from recognized institutions such as IPSO & MoPH. Essential computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office Suite and email, is necessary. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are also required, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in psychological or psychosocial counseling, ideally with a focus on vulnerable populations such as IDPs, refugees, or returnees. Candidates should have a proven track record of working effectively in fast-paced environments and managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

Languages:
Fluency in Pashto and Dari is mandatory, along with a working level of English. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with clients and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time, and salary and conditions will be in accordance with the DRC salary scale. The application process requires interested candidates to submit a cover letter and an updated CV, both in the same language and no longer than four pages. Applications that do not include both documents will not be considered.