Early Childhood Development (ECD) Technical Lead

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) was founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein. Its mission is to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and gain control of their future. The IRC operates in multiple countries, particularly in the MENA region, including Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Libya, and Yemen. The organization focuses on providing integrated programs that improve health and safety, prioritize children's education, foster economic wellbeing, and empower communities to regain control over their lives. The IRC's Early Childhood Development (ECD) portfolio has been active for over seven years, with initiatives like Ahlan Simsim and Play to Learn, which have reached millions of children and caregivers. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including Ministries of Education, Health, and Social Development, to embed ECD programs within government services across the region.

Job Overview:
The Early Childhood Development (ECD) Technical Lead is responsible for providing technical leadership and day-to-day management of Arabic ECD content and program development across the IRC ECD portfolio. This role ensures the development, adaptation, and effective deployment of high-quality, evidence-based ECD content that can be delivered efficiently through various modalities, including in-person, remote, and hybrid formats. The ECD Technical Lead collaborates closely with the Digital Portfolio Senior Manager and the wider digital team to ensure that content is appropriately adapted for digital platforms and that insights from digital engagement inform content development. The position requires a strategic approach to content development, ensuring alignment with local and national standards for ECD and early learning, and fostering collaboration with country teams to guide content adaptation and deployment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The ECD Technical Lead will oversee the development, adaptation, and effective utilization of IRC's ECD content and materials for various programs targeting children aged 0-8, caregivers, and service providers. Responsibilities include setting and implementing a clear strategy for content development, ensuring quality and cultural relevance, providing technical guidance to partners, and collaborating with internal and external experts to finalize guidance on gender equity and disability inclusion. The role also involves training and providing technical support to country and regional staff, analyzing data from content utilization to inform decision-making, and representing IRC at strategic meetings and events. Additionally, the ECD Technical Lead will manage relevant technical workplans and spending plans, contributing to project implementation meetings to discuss updates and challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a minimum of 8 years of experience in developing ECD or education content and contributing to design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and delivery for large-scale programs. A deep knowledge of the ECD field, including research, evidence-based program models, and content development approaches is essential. Proven ability to provide high-quality technical assistance and guidance, familiarity with digital technology in ECD or education contexts, and experience working in conflict and crisis settings are also required. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and knowledge of the MENA regional context are crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
While the specific educational background is not explicitly stated, it is generally expected that candidates possess a relevant degree in education, child development, social work, or a related field that supports the understanding and development of early childhood education programs.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in developing ECD or education content, with a focus on large-scale programs. Experience in conflict and crisis settings, as well as familiarity with digital technology in educational contexts, is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work autonomously and manage multiple priorities effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral Arabic and English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the MENA region may be considered an asset, but Arabic and English are the primary languages required for effective communication and content development.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Amman, Jordan; Beirut, Lebanon; or Damascus, Syria, with travel required across the MENA region as needed. The working environment is a standard office setting, and the role may involve a mix of in-person and remote work. The IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and adheres to professional standards and values, including integrity, service, equality, and accountability.