Humanitarian Affairs Advisor (civ-mil)

Job Posting Organization:
Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an independent international organization founded to provide medical care to those in need, particularly in crisis situations such as conflicts, disease outbreaks, and disasters. Established in 1971, MSF operates in over 70 countries worldwide, employing a diverse workforce that includes local medical, logistical, and administrative staff. The organization is committed to delivering humanitarian assistance based solely on need, without discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation. MSF is guided by principles of independence, impartiality, and neutrality, and actively advocates for the rights of patients and humanitarian workers, ensuring their voices are heard in global discussions.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Affairs Advisor (civ-mil) plays a crucial role in monitoring and analyzing the implementation of US defense strategies and policies, particularly as they relate to humanitarian efforts and the protection of civilians in conflict zones. This position requires the development and maintenance of strategic relationships within the US defense sector to effectively communicate MSF's operational concerns and ensure that the experiences of field teams inform engagement with US military and governmental bodies. The Advisor will be responsible for ensuring that MSF's humanitarian notifications to the US military are effectively managed and that the organization’s positions on international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law are advocated for within military contexts. This role is vital for ensuring that MSF's operational realities are reflected in US military practices and policies, thereby enhancing the protection of medical care and humanitarian access in conflict situations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Humanitarian Affairs Advisor will lead MSF's humanitarian notifications to the US military, coordinating with the Humanitarian Representative and operational teams to ensure effective communication and follow-up. Responsibilities include monitoring the effectiveness of humanitarian notification systems, documenting any failures, and addressing these with military counterparts. The Advisor will analyze military doctrine and policy, providing timely assessments of their implications for civilian protection and humanitarian access. Additionally, the role involves supporting MSF's dialogue with the Department of War and combatant commands, presenting operational evidence and advocating for the protection of civilians and medical personnel. The Advisor will also identify opportunities to integrate humanitarian law into military training and doctrine, advise on humanitarian dialogue strategies, and maintain a network of contacts within the US defense sector. The position requires delivering briefings and training to military audiences and undertaking other humanitarian affairs tasks as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of ten years of professional experience at an operational or strategic level within the US military or related government departments, such as combatant commands or the Pentagon. A military background or substantial civil-military experience through humanitarian work is essential. Applicants should have practical knowledge of the Department of War's structure and operations, particularly regarding the Joint Staff and combatant commands. Operational humanitarian experience is preferred, with MSF experience considered a significant advantage. Strong analytical skills, the ability to draft and communicate effectively, and a demonstrated capacity to build professional relationships within large institutions are required. Candidates must also be willing to travel domestically and internationally as needed.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position, ideally including advanced degrees in international relations, humanitarian studies, law, or a related field. Candidates should have a strong understanding of international humanitarian law and human rights law, with practical experience in their application in conflict settings.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, specifically a minimum of ten years in roles that involve operational and strategic engagement with the US military or related governmental bodies. Candidates should have a proven track record of analyzing military policies and their implications for humanitarian operations, as well as experience in advocating for humanitarian principles within military contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with additional language skills considered a valuable asset. Proficiency in languages commonly spoken in conflict zones or regions where MSF operates would be advantageous, enhancing communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Washington, DC, with options for on-site or hybrid work arrangements, specifically requiring in-office presence on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The role involves international travel as necessary. Compensation for this position ranges from $124,000 to $139,000, aligned with MSF USA’s compensation framework, and is determined based on relevant experience and skills. MSF USA is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented communities in the humanitarian sector. The organization also emphasizes safeguarding and the protection of individuals and communities, ensuring a respectful and safe workplace.