Coordination and Protection Officer

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Position Title: Coordination and Protection Officer
Location: Wau
Country: South Sudan
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mission in 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 and is tasked with various responsibilities including the protection of civilians, facilitating humanitarian assistance, and supporting the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. UNMISS aims to build durable peace and support inclusive governance in South Sudan, with a significant presence of uniformed personnel including troops and police. The mission is committed to advancing its strategic vision to prevent a return to civil war and to ensure free and fair elections in the country.

Job Overview:
The Coordination and Protection Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the UNMISS mandate under the direct supervision of the Head of Field Office (HoFO) in Wau. This position involves coordinating and facilitating activities that align with the mission's objectives, providing substantive support to the HoFO, and engaging in analysis and reporting on developments relevant to the mission. The officer will be responsible for monitoring and following up on directives from the HoFO, coordinating interagency efforts for the protection of internally displaced persons (IDPs), and participating in discussions to enhance coordination among various stakeholders. The role requires a proactive approach to managing relationships with various partners and ensuring effective communication and information sharing within the mission and with external actors.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Coordination and Protection Officer include:

• Providing substantive and practical support to the HoFO in implementing the Mission's mandate, including facilitating field trips and preparing reports.
• Monitoring and following up on directives from the HoFO to Substantive Sections.
• Coordinating interagency efforts to facilitate durable solutions for IDPs and enhancing inter-communal co-existence.
• Participating in protection cluster discussions to improve coordination of protection and humanitarian services.
• Keeping the HoFO informed on matters requiring attention and assisting in formulating response options.
• Supporting HoFO’s meetings and engagements by coordinating events and preparing necessary documents.
• Developing written products such as reports and correspondence for the HoFO’s signature.
• Building collaborative relationships with various stakeholders including state authorities and civil society.
• Monitoring and analyzing developments relevant to the mission’s mandate, especially regarding civilian protection. 1
• Collecting and managing information to identify conflict-related trends and advising on actions to enhance civilian protection. 1
• Producing analytical reports and recommendations on policies and strategies. 1
• Supporting internal coordination and planning of work within the Field Office. 1
• Providing oversight for administrative processes in the Office of the HoFO and performing quality control in routine correspondence. 1
• Performing other relevant duties as requested by the HoFO.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Coordination and Protection Officer position include a strong understanding of the UN's mandate and operations in conflict zones, particularly in relation to civilian protection and humanitarian assistance. Candidates should possess excellent analytical and reporting skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and provide actionable recommendations. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for building relationships with various stakeholders and facilitating coordination efforts. The ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances is also crucial, as is a commitment to the principles of accountability and professionalism in all aspects of the role.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Coordination and Protection Officer position are expected to have a relevant educational background, typically a graduate degree in international relations, political science, law, social sciences, or a related field. A strong academic foundation in humanitarian law, human rights, and conflict resolution is highly desirable, as it directly relates to the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience in coordination, protection, or humanitarian work, ideally within a UN or international organization context. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in complex environments, particularly in conflict or post-conflict settings. Experience in engaging with government authorities, civil society, and humanitarian actors is essential, as is familiarity with the challenges and dynamics of working in South Sudan or similar contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of the UN. Knowledge of local languages spoken in South Sudan would be considered an asset, as it can facilitate communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Wau, South Sudan, which is classified as a non-family duty station. Candidates should be prepared for austere living conditions, including shared accommodation and basic facilities. The security situation in South Sudan can be volatile, and candidates must be able to live and work in challenging environments. The role may involve travel to various locations within South Sudan, and candidates should be aware of the potential for water shortages and power outages. The mission provides primary health care services, but candidates should be prepared for limited medical facilities in some areas.