Public Information Officer

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Position Title: Public Information Officer
Location: Torit
Country: South Sudan
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan (UNMISS) was established to support the peace process in South Sudan and to protect civilians. The mission operates under the mandate of the United Nations security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council, which has extended its mission until March 15, 2024, emphasizing the need for durable peace and governance in the region. UNMISS is tasked with various responsibilities, including the protection of civilians, creating conditions for humanitarian assistance, and monitoring human rights violations. The mission employs a significant number of personnel, including uniformed troops and police, to fulfill its objectives across South Sudan.

Job Overview:
The Public Information Officer position is situated within the Communications & Public Information Section (CPIS) of UNMISS in Torit, a non-family duty station. The officer will report directly to the Head Office in Torit and the Chief of Service for Public Information. The role involves planning and organizing awareness-raising events using various engaging methods such as drama, music, and sports to promote UNMISS's goals and enhance public understanding of its mission. The officer will also be responsible for conceptualizing public relations plans, producing promotional materials, and organizing events for UN-related International Days. Additionally, the officer will maintain networks with high-profile officials and influencers, analyze local media, support field CPI officers, and contribute to outreach activities through writing and graphic design.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Public Information Officer will undertake a variety of tasks, including: planning and organizing awareness-raising events; conceptualizing public relations plans; producing promotional materials; organizing celebratory events for UN-related International Days; creating and maintaining networks with officials and influencers; screening and analyzing local media; supporting field CPI officers; traveling to cover stories and events; organizing the distribution of CPI print products; mentoring national staff; writing and editing content for outreach activities; and designing graphic materials using software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. The officer will also perform other duties as assigned by the CPI Section Chief and other heads of departments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate accountability, adaptability, creativity, judgment, planning, professionalism, and self-management. These competencies are essential for effectively carrying out the responsibilities of the Public Information Officer role within the challenging environment of South Sudan.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of public information and communication strategies within a mission context.

Experience:
Candidates should possess a significant level of experience in public information, communications, or a related field. Experience working in challenging environments, particularly in conflict or post-conflict settings, is highly desirable. Familiarity with UN operations and mandates will be an advantage.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the mission. Knowledge of local languages spoken in South Sudan would be beneficial and is considered a good asset for the position.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in a non-family duty station, which means that candidates should be prepared for austere living conditions. Accommodation may be shared, and candidates should be aware of potential water shortages and power outages. The security situation in South Sudan can be volatile, and candidates must be able to live and work under difficult conditions. The mission provides primary health care services, and candidates should be prepared for a tropical climate with a rainy season from April to October. The role may involve travel within South Sudan and requires a commitment to the mission's objectives.