Social and Behavior Change (SBC) Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of every child, particularly those who are most vulnerable and disadvantaged. With a mission to improve national and regional policies, programs, and services for children and adolescents, UNICEF operates in over 150 countries worldwide. The organization employs thousands of staff members who work collaboratively with governments and partners to address barriers to children's rights, focusing on areas such as health, nutrition, education, child protection, and social protection.

Job Overview:
The Social and Behavior Change (SBC) Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the design, coordination, and implementation of SBC strategies and initiatives that aim to promote informed decision-making and strengthen community participation. This position is vital in addressing the development challenges faced by the Philippines, where integrated approaches are necessary to combine policy, service delivery, and community engagement. The SBC Officer will work closely with various stakeholders, including program teams, government counterparts, academic institutions, and implementing partners, to enhance the design, implementation, and documentation of SBC initiatives. The role involves providing technical support, facilitating capacity development, and contributing to knowledge generation and programmatic goals aligned with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The SBC Officer will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Capacity Development for SBC: Providing technical and coordination support to strengthen SBC capacities of UNICEF staff and partners, facilitating learning sessions, conducting training needs assessments, and maintaining documentation of capacity development activities.
• Technical Support to Programme Sectors: Offering quality technical support to sectoral teams, coordinating with program teams to identify needs, providing operational and technical support throughout the SBC process, and conducting quality assurance processes.
• SBC Systems Strengthening and Integration: Supporting efforts to institutionalize SBC across policies and programs, documenting multi-stakeholder dialogues, and preparing concept notes and discussion papers.
• Knowledge Management and Network Engagement: Contributing to the development of knowledge products, assisting in preparing technical presentations, and managing SBC knowledge products through various platforms.
• Monitoring, Reporting, and Programme Learning: Supporting tracking of SBC results, preparing reports, and analyzing program data to inform adaptive programming and continuous improvement of SBC interventions.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a deep understanding of Social and Behavior Change (SBC) approaches, community engagement strategies, and UNICEF program processes. They should demonstrate initiative, accountability, and sound judgment in managing complex tasks and projects. The candidate must also be able to balance autonomy with collaboration, adapting guidance to diverse contexts and program needs. Integrity, teamwork, respect for diversity, and a commitment to continuous learning are essential qualities for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a degree in social sciences, public health, communication, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in SBC or related areas will be an advantage. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in behavioral science and community engagement methodologies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant professional experience in social and behavior change communication, public health, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or NGOs in the Philippines or similar contexts is highly desirable. The candidate should have a proven track record of successfully implementing SBC initiatives and working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Filipino or other local languages is considered an asset, as it enhances communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and the volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living necessities. The position provides access to essential services and is covered under the UNV insurance plan. The entitlements for the National UN Volunteer include a Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA), insurance coverage, annual leave, and access to learning and career development resources. The volunteer is expected to adhere to UNICEF’s security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security guidelines and protocols and is encouraged to participate in UNV activities.