Logistics Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to improving the lives of the poor and vulnerable, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. CRS's work encompasses various sectors, including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The agency is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that its processes and policies reflect this commitment. CRS fosters a collaborative, mission-driven culture that welcomes individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its values and dedication to serving those in need. The organization employs a diverse workforce and prioritizes candidates from the regions where it operates, reflecting its commitment to local engagement and empowerment.

Job Overview:
The logistics-officer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Logistics Officer will coordinate the implementation of all daily logistics activities to ensure that all programs and operations have the necessary goods and services when needed. This role is crucial in supporting high-quality programs aimed at assisting poor and vulnerable populations. The officer will leverage their knowledge and experience to address logistical needs and challenges, implementing solutions while adhering to principles of responsible management, integrity, transparency, and accountability. Additionally, the Logistics Officer will play a supportive role in security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security aspects within the Ituri region, ensuring that logistics operations are conducted safely and effectively. The position requires collaboration with supply chain teams and programming staff to meet pipeline requirements, identify supply chain management challenges, and provide actionable recommendations. The officer will also support the delivery operations from the arrival of goods in the country to their distribution in compliance with CRS and donor regulations, as well as international and local supply chain standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Logistics Officer will be responsible for coordinating with the supply chain team and relevant programming staff to ensure that logistics services meet pipeline requirements. Key responsibilities include identifying challenges in supply chain management and providing recommendations for resolution. The officer will support the implementation of delivery operations, overseeing the movement of goods from their arrival in the country to warehouses and final distribution centers, ensuring compliance with CRS and donor regulations, as well as international and local supply chain standards. The officer will collaborate with the procurement team to ensure timely receipt of purchase requests with complete specifications, delivery timelines, and other terms and conditions, including labeling and branding. Regular support and guidance will be provided to CRS staff and partner workers to ensure they can implement logistics processes accurately, consistently, and transparently while adhering to safety, security, and health requirements. The officer will assist in coordinating and supervising activities related to the receipt, transport, distribution, and disposal of goods, working with surveyors, C&F agents, transport agents, partners, and other stakeholders to ensure timely receipt and distribution of goods. The officer will maintain up-to-date records with all required logistics documentation and ensure that all supply chain management activities and movements are fully and accurately documented. Additionally, the officer will prepare and/or review all reports prior to submission in accordance with distribution requirements.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a bachelor's degree in supply chain management or a related field, along with at least two years of professional experience in supply chain management, logistics, or procurement. Recent graduates may be considered for this position. Preferred qualifications include professional certifications in supply chain management or a related field, as well as experience working in an international organization. Familiarity with product tracking systems is an asset. Candidates should possess knowledge of political dynamics along the supply chain, infrastructure, market knowledge, and relevant laws and regulations. Proficiency in MS Office packages (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio) is essential, along with strong planning, coordination, prioritization, and time management skills. Analytical skills with the ability to make independent judgments and decisions are also required. Candidates should demonstrate ethical conduct in line with recognized professional and organizational codes, be proactive, resourceful, solution-oriented, and results-driven, and possess the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in supply chain management or a relevant field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of logistics and supply chain operations, as well as for effectively managing the various challenges that may arise in the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in supply chain management, logistics, or procurement. This experience is crucial for the candidate to effectively navigate the logistical challenges and operational requirements of the role. Recent graduates may also be considered, indicating that the organization is open to nurturing new talent in the field.

Languages:
The position requires proficiency in French, as it is essential for effective communication and coordination in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Knowledge of English is also beneficial, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The Logistics Officer position may require travel up to 25% within the Ituri region and other areas where CRS intends to conduct activities. The role involves supervising warehouse staff and ensuring compliance with CRS's Code of Conduct. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages are based on the country of employment. The anticipated duration of the assignment for expatriates is informed by a term limit based on the job type and level, as well as the agency's needs. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants, community members, staff, and volunteers from all forms of exploitation and abuse, and the successful candidate is expected to adhere to these principles.