SRH Technical Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) operates in Syria with a mission to contribute to three long-term strategic goals: zero preventable maternal deaths, zero unmet need for family planning, and zero gender-based violence (GBV) and harmful practices. Established under the 8th Country Programme Document, UNFPA has been active in Syria since 2016, extending its efforts through various humanitarian response plans. The organization focuses on enhancing the capacity of health and social systems, NGOs, and local communities to provide essential reproductive health and GBV services. UNFPA also plays a crucial role in advocating for women's empowerment and gender equality, particularly in the context of youth education and civic participation. The organization operates various programmatic services, including mobile clinics, safe spaces for women and girls, and community centers, while also supplying dignity kits and reproductive health kits. UNFPA collaborates closely with other UN agencies in Syria to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis and support the resilience of affected populations.

Job Overview:
The SRH Technical Officer position is critical for providing direct technical oversight to implementing partners in the Aleppo Sub-office. This role is designed to ensure adherence to international sexual and reproductive health (SRH) service delivery standards and to strengthen the quality assurance of healthcare interventions in a high-demand context. The position is essential due to the increased operational demands and the complexity of needs in the area of responsibility (AoR). The SRH Technical Officer will be responsible for managing medical teams, assessing the quality of healthcare services, and serving as a clinical advisor to ensure high standards of SRH care. The incumbent will also support project development, monitoring, and evaluation, while coordinating the implementation of RH programs and ensuring compliance with established procedures. This role is vital for maintaining the quality and continuity of SRH services for women and girls in Aleppo and Idlib, particularly in light of the rising vulnerabilities and protection risks faced by these populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The SRH Technical Officer will undertake a variety of duties, including: collaborating with government counterparts and NGOs to formulate and design Annual Work Plans (AWPs) that align with the Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP); ensuring the quality of program/project design by incorporating lessons learned and best practices; coordinating project implementation and establishing collaborative relationships with implementing partners; assisting the program team in executing project activities; participating in RH needs assessments; supporting coordination with sub-national partners; addressing fieldwork issues and suggesting course corrections; organizing technical workshops and training; reviewing and coordinating knowledge material production; managing organizational and logistical issues related to project execution; preparing annual work plans and budget revisions; facilitating timely submission of technical reports; identifying support needs for SRH program management; conducting field visits and preparing progress reports; analyzing factors affecting results and recommending corrective actions; ensuring gender and youth mainstreaming in SRH activities; and maintaining professional relationships with government stakeholders and community organizations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the SRH Technical Officer position should possess a strong understanding of sexual and reproductive health issues, particularly in humanitarian contexts. They should demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and community organizations. Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills are essential, along with the ability to communicate effectively and advocate for policy-oriented agendas. The role requires a commitment to UNFPA's values and a sensitivity to cultural diversity.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in public health, medicine, nursing, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in sexual and reproductive health or humanitarian response are highly desirable. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of international health standards and practices, particularly in the context of emergency response and humanitarian assistance.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of several years of experience in sexual and reproductive health programming, particularly in humanitarian settings. Experience working with UN agencies, NGOs, or government bodies in a similar capacity is highly advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of managing health programs, providing technical oversight, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders in complex environments.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNFPA and with international partners. Proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context and the need to engage effectively with community stakeholders and beneficiaries. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in facilitating communication with diverse populations.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national UN Volunteer assignment based in Aleppo, Syria. The UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The role requires cultural sensitivity and an ability to adapt to the local culture and traditions. The benefits package includes a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of USD 919, a Danger and Hardship Differential of USD 275.8, an entry lump sum of USD 350, medical and life insurance, access to learning platforms, and an exit lump sum upon successful completion of the assignment. For more information on entitlements, candidates can refer to the UNV Entitlements Calculator.