Protection Assistant (Psycho-Social Support Assistant)

Protection Assistant (Psycho-Social Support Assistant)

Danish Refugee Council (DRC)

September 22, 2026October 22, 2026Ukraine
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent protection agency dedicated to safeguarding, advocating for, and promoting sustainable solutions for populations affected by displacement. Established in 1956, DRC has a long history of providing assistance to those in need. With over 800 employees currently working in Ukraine, DRC has been operational in the country since 2014, focusing on emergency responses in various sectors including Protection, Livelihoods, Shelter/NFIs, and Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding. The organization employs direct interventions, supports duty bearers, and collaborates with civil society organizations (CSOs) to implement its programs. DRC is committed to adapting its durable solutions portfolio to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves, ensuring that its interventions are relevant and effective in addressing the challenges faced by displaced populations.

Job Overview:
The Protection Assistant (Psycho-Social Support Assistant) will play a crucial role in delivering quality psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support services to vulnerable groups and conflict-affected populations in Kharkiv oblast. Reporting to the Protection Team Leader, the PSS Assistant will be responsible for conducting needs assessments, developing action plans, and providing safe referrals to relevant services. This position requires the organization and facilitation of awareness-raising sessions, group sessions, and individual psychological counseling. The PSS Assistant will work closely with other departments within DRC and external partners to ensure that support is timely, effective, and centered around the needs of clients. Adherence to high standards of confidentiality, professionalism, and humanitarian principles is essential in this role, as the PSS Assistant will be dealing with sensitive issues and vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main duties and responsibilities of the Protection Assistant include: conducting individual psychosocial support sessions in accordance with DRC's methodology; facilitating structured group psychosocial support sessions aimed at fostering mutual support, resilience, and psychological well-being; developing and delivering awareness-raising sessions on psychosocial and gender-based violence (GBV) issues; facilitating referrals to relevant services in coordination with other service providers; conducting ongoing monitoring and assessment of psychosocial needs; ensuring proper data documentation and updating the services mapping system; and participating in the development and continuous updating of the services mapping system with detailed information on available services and assistance.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, candidates must possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Psychology and have at least one year of experience conducting individual psychosocial support counseling sessions. Experience in facilitating group psychosocial support sessions is also required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to communicate openly about sensitive topics and work effectively with individuals under stress. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with the Windows operating system are necessary. Knowledge of the Ukrainian language is mandatory, while basic knowledge of English is desirable. Candidates should also have a strong sense of personal integrity and a commitment to confidentiality and ethical standards.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Psychology, which provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for conducting psychosocial support activities. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of mental health issues and the appropriate interventions required to support individuals in distress.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of one year of experience in the psychological field, preferably within a non-governmental organization (NGO) that implements humanitarian, social, or psychological programs. Experience working with conflict-affected populations is highly valued, as is the ability to communicate effectively with individuals experiencing stress. Previous experience in community settings, conducting psychosocial support activities, and providing services to vulnerable groups will be advantageous.

Languages:
Knowledge of the Ukrainian language is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with the target population. Basic knowledge of English is considered desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international staff and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kharkiv and offers a contract length of three months, with a probationary period and the possibility of extension based on funding availability and performance. The role is classified as Band I non-managerial. The expected start date for this position is October 202
  • The salary and conditions of employment will be determined in accordance with the Terms of Employment for National Staff of the Danish Refugee Council, starting from EUR 1,465 gross per month, depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications. All candidates must submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English through the application system, as applications sent via email will not be considered.
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