Adolescent Substance Misuse and Diversion Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs thousands of staff members globally and operates in various sectors including health, education, and child protection, with a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Job Overview:
The Adolescent Substance Misuse and Diversion Consultant will play a crucial role in addressing adolescent programming needs related to substance misuse in Fiji and Samoa. This position involves supporting the development, preparation, implementation, and monitoring of projects funded by the Government of Japan, aimed at preventing and intervening in adolescent drug misuse. The consultant will provide technical guidance and management support throughout the programming processes, collaborating closely with government counterparts, civil society organizations, and community groups. The role is vital in enhancing the capacity of national systems to respond to drug abuse and associated issues, ensuring that adolescents receive the necessary support and services.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement strategies for adolescent substance misuse prevention and early intervention programs in Fiji and Samoa.
• Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations to enhance the effectiveness of programs.
• Provide technical guidance and support in the management of projects funded by the Government of Japan.
• Monitor and evaluate the progress of programs, ensuring alignment with UNICEF's objectives and standards.
• Facilitate training and capacity-building initiatives for stakeholders involved in adolescent programming.
• Prepare reports and documentation on program outcomes and recommendations for future actions.
• Engage with local communities to raise awareness about substance misuse and promote healthy behaviors among adolescents.
• Ensure that all activities are conducted in accordance with UNICEF's values and principles, particularly regarding child protection and safeguarding.

Required Qualifications:

• An advanced university degree or Postgraduate Diploma in international development, human rights, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, or a related field is required.
• Additional years of relevant work experience may be considered as a substitute for an advanced degree.
• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in the justice or security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security sector, child protection, or related areas is required, with some experience in a developing country preferred.
• Relevant experience working with international organizations or NGOs in the Pacific is required.
• Direct experience in Fiji or Samoa is highly regarded, along with knowledge of establishing programs in the Pacific context.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree or Postgraduate Diploma in fields such as international development, human rights, international law, or other relevant areas. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and understanding of the complexities involved in adolescent programming and substance misuse.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of professional experience in relevant sectors such as justice, security, or child protection. Experience should include work in developing countries, with a preference for candidates who have worked in the Pacific region. Familiarity with program management, partnerships, monitoring, and reporting in a Pacific context is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills relevant to the Pacific region, particularly in the context of Fiji or Samoa, are considered desirable but not mandatory. Cultural and linguistic competency will enhance the consultant's effectiveness in engaging with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this consultancy is 28 months, and the working arrangement is office-based with potential trips to relevant locations. UNICEF emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure adherence to UNICEF's standards and principles.