Protection Officer (Psycho-Social Support Officer)

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent protection agency that has been dedicated to safeguarding, advocating for, and promoting sustainable solutions for populations affected by displacement. Established in 1956, DRC has grown to employ over 800 staff members in Ukraine alone since its operations began in the country in 201

• The organization is active in various sectors including Protection, Livelihoods, Shelter/NFIs, and Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding, which encompasses humanitarian mine action. DRC's mission is to adapt and continue its durable solutions portfolio in response to the evolving context of displacement and humanitarian needs, working through direct interventions, support to duty bearers, and partnerships with civil society organizations (CSOs).

Job Overview:
The Protection Officer (Psycho-Social Support Officer) position is crucial for DRC's operations in Shostka, where the individual will be responsible for delivering comprehensive psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support services to individuals and communities impacted by the ongoing war. This role requires regular field visits and travel across the Sumy region and Sumy city. The officer will work under the guidance of the Psycho-Social Support Team Leader, focusing on assessing the psychosocial support needs of affected individuals and communities, providing appropriate assistance, and facilitating processes that promote recovery and resilience. The position emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the development of tailored support programs that address the unique challenges faced by those affected by the conflict.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Officer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: facilitating group sessions aimed at promoting mutual support and positive coping strategies; conducting individual psychosocial support sessions tailored to the needs of clients; developing curricula for psychosocial support programs; designing and delivering psychoeducational awareness sessions on topics such as stress management; conducting community consultations to assess psychosocial needs; collaborating with other service providers for referrals and follow-ups; identifying community spaces for PSS activities; fostering community participation in psychosocial initiatives; supporting local resources to enhance community-based psychosocial support; planning and participating in capacity-building sessions; contributing to the development of a service mapping system; and preparing regular reports on activities, achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, candidates must possess a university degree in psychology or a related field, along with practical experience in providing psychosocial support through both group and individual sessions. The ability to engage in discussions about sensitive topics and work effectively with individuals in distress is essential. Candidates should demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, organizational and time management abilities, and a strong sense of personal integrity, particularly regarding confidentiality and ethical considerations. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with various operating systems is also required, alongside mandatory Ukrainian language skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed a higher education degree in psychology, which provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding and addressing the psychosocial needs of individuals and communities affected by conflict. This educational background is critical for ensuring that the officer can effectively deliver support and interventions that are informed by psychological principles and practices.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of relevant experience in providing psychosocial support is required for this role. This experience should include both group and individual support sessions, demonstrating the candidate's ability to work with diverse populations and address a range of psychosocial issues. Experience in community engagement and collaboration with other service providers is also beneficial, as it enhances the officer's ability to effectively coordinate support services.

Languages:
Proficiency in the Ukrainian language is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with clients and community members. Additionally, good English language skills are preferred, as they may facilitate communication with international staff and stakeholders. Familiarity with other languages may also be advantageous but is not a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at Level H, non-managerial, and is based in Shostka/Sumy. The contract length includes a 3-month probation period, with the possibility of extension based on performance and available funding. The start date for this position is set for June 202

• Salary and conditions will align with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for national staff. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with applications sent via email not being considered. The closing date for applications is May 3, 2026, and candidates are encouraged to apply promptly, as interviews may occur on a rolling basis. DRC reserves the right to select a candidate before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified.