Social Protection Technical Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to promote social justice and fair labor practices worldwide. Established in 1919, the ILO has a mission to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection, and strengthen dialogue on work-related issues. The organization operates in over 180 countries and has a diverse workforce committed to improving labor standards and working conditions globally. The ILO values diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates, including women and individuals with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The Social Protection Technical Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the EU Social Protection Action in Lebanon, which aims to build a rights-based social protection system and consolidate social assistance for vulnerable populations. This position requires the incumbent to provide direct technical support to the project, ensuring alignment with ILO policies and the Decent Work Agenda. The officer will be responsible for assisting in the planning, monitoring, and evaluation of project activities, as well as providing technical advice on social protection reforms to various stakeholders, including government ministries and social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security institutions. The role also involves promoting non-discrimination, disability inclusion, and gender responsiveness in all project aspects, thereby contributing to the overall goal of enhancing social protection in Lebanon amidst ongoing economic and political challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Social Protection Technical Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: assisting the Programme Manager in project implementation by providing technical inputs; ensuring conformity with ILO policies and project strategies; managing contracts and implementation agreements; providing technical advice on social protection reforms; promoting social dialogue and capacity-building activities; conducting research and preparing reports related to the project; maintaining close liaison with relevant stakeholders; representing the ILO at meetings and workshops; coordinating missions related to project implementation; and undertaking other duties as required. The officer will also be expected to engage with various partners, including civil society organizations and organizations of persons with disabilities, to ensure meaningful participation in social protection policy design and implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in economics, social science, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) in one of the aforementioned fields, combined with an additional two years of relevant experience, will be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. The position requires at least five years of relevant professional experience, particularly in social protection, with expertise in both contributory and non-contributory schemes considered advantageous. Familiarity with international social security standards and principles, as well as experience in national dialogue processes, especially in the MENA region, is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as economics or social sciences. Candidates with a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) may be considered if they have additional relevant experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of social protection systems and the ability to contribute effectively to the ILO's mission in Lebanon.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience, particularly in the field of social protection. Candidates should have a strong understanding of both contributory and non-contributory social protection schemes and programs, as well as familiarity with international social security standards and principles. Experience in engaging with national dialogue processes, particularly within the MENA region, is considered an asset, as it will enhance the officer's ability to navigate the local context and contribute to effective policy implementation.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary working language of the ILO. A working knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context, and proficiency in French would be an additional advantage. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is crucial for engaging with various stakeholders and ensuring the successful implementation of social protection initiatives.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for one year, starting from October 1, 2026, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and satisfactory performance. The ILO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from qualified female candidates and individuals with disabilities. The recruitment process will involve an online application, and candidates may be contacted for a written test or interview. The ILO has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse and conducts background verifications to ensure the integrity of its hiring process. Candidates should be aware that any appointment is subject to ILO Staff Regulations and medical fitness certification.