Area Relief and Social Services Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 194

• Its mission is to provide assistance and protection to approximately 5.8 million registered Palestine refugees across Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. UNRWA aims to help these refugees achieve their full potential in human development while awaiting a just resolution to their situation. The agency operates the largest UN operation in the Middle East, employing over 30,000 staff members and is primarily funded through voluntary contributions from UN member states, regional bodies, business foundations, and individual donations. UNRWA is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of one of the most vulnerable communities in the world, and it seeks individuals who are passionate about contributing to this mission.

Job Overview:
The Area Relief and Social Services Officer is responsible for overseeing the delivery of quality basic education services to refugee students in the assigned area. The incumbent will ensure that the academic potential of each child is realized and that overall school achievement levels are improved. This role involves providing technical supervision and guidance to School Principals and Deputy School Principals, developing a safe and stimulating learning environment, and managing the performance of educational staff. The officer will also be responsible for fostering positive relationships with community leaders, NGOs, and government institutions, coordinating support services for under-performing students, and ensuring effective administration of school resources in accordance with UNRWA guidelines. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to address educational challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ensure the delivery of quality basic education services to refugee students, improving academic achievement levels.
• Provide technical supervision and guidance to School Principals and Deputy School Principals, developing individual and school goals.
• Manage the performance and behavior of educational staff, providing feedback and identifying training needs.
• Develop and maintain relationships with community leaders, NGOs, and government institutions.
• Oversee the coordination of support services for under-performing students, including remedial teaching and counseling.
• Ensure effective administration of staff, students, and school resources, conducting inspections to maintain standards.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree from an accredited institution in social work, sociology, psychology, social anthropology, guidance and counseling, or a related field. Professional qualifications and training in action-oriented social research, along with participation in at least two research projects, are also required. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership, networking, technical expertise, and organizational skills.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as social work, sociology, psychology, social anthropology, guidance and counseling is required. Additional professional qualifications and training in social research are desirable.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least five years of relevant experience in relief services and/or social development programs, with a minimum of three years in a supervisory or management role, preferably in a similar program. Experience in educational settings and community engagement is highly valued.

Languages:
English and Arabic are required for this position. Proficiency in both languages is necessary, with specific levels of reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills as outlined by the UN Language Framework. French is considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment for one year, including a one-year probation period, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The monthly basic salary is USD 1,592.60, payable in Jordanian Dinar at the UN monthly exchange rate. Additional benefits include a monthly Provident Fund contribution, compulsory medical insurance, 30 days of annual leave, sick leave, maternity leave, and paternity leave. The vacancy is open to internal candidates only, and preference will be given to registered Palestine refugees and candidates from underrepresented genders. Candidates must reside in the West Bank or Jerusalem and have authorization to work in the duty station. The agency will not facilitate work permits, and candidates must provide complete and accurate information in their applications.