Livelihood and Economic Inclusion Officer

Livelihood and Economic Inclusion Officer

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

May 2, 2026June 16, 2026NairobiKenya
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195
  • Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that refugees and displaced persons can lead dignified lives and rebuild their futures, contributing to the global agenda of sustainable development and humanitarian response.

Job Overview:
The Livelihood and Economic Inclusion Officer plays a crucial role in aligning the organization's efforts with the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR). This position focuses on promoting the economic inclusion of refugees, which is essential for enhancing their self-reliance and easing the burden on host countries. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders, including government institutions, private sector partners, and NGOs, to create an enabling environment for refugees to access economic opportunities. The role involves advocating for the rights of refugees to work, developing partnerships, and enhancing ongoing programming through evidence-based approaches. The officer will also be responsible for formulating interventions that position UNHCR as a key player in the economic inclusion of refugees, ensuring that their needs are met through effective collaboration and innovative solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Livelihood and Economic Inclusion Officer will facilitate the economic inclusion of refugees by coordinating with external partners, strengthening partnerships, and advocating for the inclusion of refugees in various support services. The officer will conduct assessments to identify investment opportunities, work with economic development agencies to adapt their programs for refugees, and monitor the implementation of livelihoods interventions. Additionally, the officer will maintain communication with regional and country operations, coordinate technical assessments, and mobilize resources for economic inclusion initiatives. The role also involves managing the livelihoods program, conducting research, and ensuring that all activities align with UNHCR's policies and strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of six years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, five years with a graduate degree, or four years with a doctorate. Essential technical competencies include knowledge in financial inclusion, employment, entrepreneurship, and local economic development. Experience in facilitating the economic inclusion of marginalized groups and managing partnerships with various stakeholders is crucial. Familiarity with UNHCR policies and standards is desirable, along with strong project management and networking skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in Business Management, Socio-Economic Development, Economics, Rural Development, or Financial Management. Candidates with relevant certifications or licenses in these fields will be preferred, as they demonstrate a solid foundation for the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in livelihoods, economic development, or related fields. Candidates should have a strong background in market systems development and private sector engagement, particularly in economically underserved areas in Africa. Experience working with displaced populations and influencing policy at the national level is highly valued, as is familiarity with international financial institutions and the private sector.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is English in this case. Knowledge of local languages is also beneficial, as it can enhance communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role and is temporary, with a target start date of May 15, 2026, and an end date of December 31, 202
  • The role is family-type, indicating that it may be suitable for candidates with families. The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and may involve travel within the region to support various initiatives. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment, adhering to UNHCR's core values and policies.
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