Civil Affairs Officer

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Position Title: Civil Affairs Officer
Location: TORIT
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, which has determined that the situation in South Sudan poses a threat to international peace and security. UNMISS aims to prevent a return to civil war, build durable peace, and support inclusive governance and free elections. The mission has a significant presence in South Sudan, with a ceiling of 17,000 troops and over 2,100 police personnel, including corrections officers. The organization is committed to humanitarian assistance and the protection of human rights, and it operates in a challenging environment with a focus on conflict resolution and peacebuilding.

Job Overview:
The Civil Affairs Officer position is located within the Civil Affairs Division of UNMISS, specifically in TORIT, which is classified as a hardship and non-family duty station. The officer will report to the Senior Civil Affairs Officer/Team Leader and will be responsible for maintaining contact with various local stakeholders, including government authorities, political leaders, and civil society organizations. The role involves providing analysis on conflict management and supporting local peace processes. The officer will also be tasked with fostering dialogues to enhance cooperation between conflicting parties and will be expected to produce timely reports on conflict management and peace activities. The position requires collaboration with UN agencies and NGOs, as well as participation in assessment missions and the implementation of peace activities in the community.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Civil Affairs Officer will undertake a variety of tasks, including maintaining contact with local government and community leaders, providing analysis on conflict management, identifying conflict trends, and supporting local peace processes. The officer will be responsible for fostering confidence-building dialogues, providing timely reports on peace activities, conducting VIP briefings, and collaborating with UN agencies and NGOs. Additionally, the officer will represent the Civil Affairs Division in meetings, participate in assessment missions, establish early warning systems, implement workshops and peace activities, and forge partnerships with local organizations. The officer will also be required to complete mandatory UNMISS trainings and undertake other assignments as directed by the Team Leader or Director.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Civil Affairs Officer position must possess strong competencies in accountability, adaptability, creativity, judgment, planning, professionalism, and self-management. The role requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work effectively in a challenging environment. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to the principles of the United Nations and have a strong understanding of conflict resolution and peacebuilding processes.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for the Civil Affairs Officer position. Candidates should have a degree in social sciences, international relations, political science, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in conflict resolution, peace studies, or humanitarian assistance may be advantageous and are often preferred by the organization.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a significant level of experience in civil affairs, conflict resolution, or related fields. Previous experience working in a UN mission or in a similar context is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of engaging with local communities and stakeholders, as well as experience in conducting assessments and implementing peace initiatives. Familiarity with the political and social dynamics of South Sudan or similar environments will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Civil Affairs Officer position. Knowledge of local languages spoken in South Sudan may be considered an asset and could enhance the officer's ability to engage with local communities effectively. Candidates who possess additional language skills relevant to the region may have a competitive advantage in the selection process.

Additional Notes:
The Civil Affairs Officer position is classified as a non-family duty station, and candidates should be prepared for austere living conditions. Accommodation may be shared, and candidates should be aware of the potential for water shortages and power outages. The security situation in South Sudan can be volatile, and candidates must be able to live and work in difficult conditions. The position may involve a contract duration that aligns with the UNMISS mandate, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges associated with working in a conflict-affected area.