Child Protection Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission 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 a large workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support.

Job Overview:
The Child Protection Officer position at UNICEF is crucial for implementing and managing child protection programs within the Country Programme. Reporting to the Chief of Field Office, the officer will provide technical, operational, and administrative assistance throughout the programming process. This role includes supporting Child Protection in Emergencies (CPiE) programming and involves tasks such as program development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The officer will work to ensure that all children have equitable opportunities to survive and thrive, focusing on the most disadvantaged and excluded populations. The position requires a strong commitment to child rights and the ability to navigate complex social and political environments to advocate for children's needs effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Child Protection Officer will be responsible for several key duties, including:

• Supporting program development and planning by contributing to the design and implementation of child protection initiatives.
• Managing and monitoring program delivery to ensure results are achieved effectively and efficiently.
• Providing technical and operational support for program implementation, ensuring adherence to UNICEF's standards and guidelines.
• Building networks and partnerships with government entities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance program reach and impact.
• Engaging in innovation and knowledge management to improve child protection practices and capacity building within the community.
• Conducting assessments and utilizing digital tools for monitoring child protection activities, ensuring ethical practices are upheld throughout.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in fields such as International Development, Human Rights, Psychology, Sociology, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">International Law, or other relevant social sciences. A minimum of two years of professional experience in social development planning and management, particularly in child protection areas, is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of Child Protection in Emergencies (CPiE) programming, including case management and community systems. Knowledge of child safeguarding, data protection, and ethical monitoring practices is essential, along with the ability to manage multiple partnerships effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (First Level University Degree) in relevant fields such as International Development, Human Rights, Psychology, Sociology, International Law, or other social sciences. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of child protection and the socio-political factors affecting children's rights.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in social development planning and management, specifically in child protection-related areas. Candidates should have experience working in both development and humanitarian contexts, with a strong emphasis on Child Protection in Emergencies (CPiE). Relevant experience in program development within a UN system agency or international organization is considered an asset, particularly in fragile settings and refugee environments.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset. This linguistic capability is important for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders, including local communities and international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary appointment for 364 days, emphasizing the need for flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, including women, gender-diverse individuals, and people with disabilities. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children. Background checks will be conducted for all selected candidates, and compliance with medical clearance and vaccination requirements is mandatory.