Capacity Building and Training Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, focusing on disaster relief, poverty alleviation, and community empowerment. The organization partners with local communities to implement bold solutions that help individuals overcome adversity and build stronger, more resilient communities. In Zimbabwe, Mercy Corps has been active since 2002, addressing the challenges of poverty, oppression, and environmental shocks through a multi-sectoral approach that promotes sustainable development and community resilience.

Job Overview:
The Capacity Building and Training Specialist will play a pivotal role within the Resilience Knowledge Hub (RKH) under the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF). This position is designed to enhance the capacity of ZRBF partners, including government entities and civil society organizations, in understanding and applying resilience concepts and methodologies. The specialist will be responsible for developing and implementing training programs, creating course content, and facilitating workshops aimed at strengthening the resilience approaches of various stakeholders. The role also involves conducting resilience analyses, improving early warning systems, and supporting the strategic planning and implementation of resilience initiatives. The specialist will ensure that all activities are evidence-based and demonstrate measurable effectiveness, contributing to the overall goal of enhancing community resilience in Zimbabwe.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Capacity Building and Training Specialist include leading the development of a capacity building plan for ZRBF stakeholders, identifying technical gaps in resilience integration, documenting and sharing best practices, and refining training curricula. The specialist will provide technical guidance to partners, support policy development, and act as a liaison among various stakeholders involved in resilience building. Additionally, the specialist will be responsible for nurturing ethical behaviors within the organization, promoting accountability, and ensuring compliance with Mercy Corps' values and standards. This role requires a commitment to organizational learning and the integration of safeguarding principles into all aspects of work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in development studies, social sciences, environmental science, disaster management, or a related field. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in capacity building initiatives focused on community resilience is required. Strong skills in needs assessment, training development, facilitation, and monitoring and evaluation are essential. Experience in applying resilience concepts in programming within Zimbabwe or sub-Saharan Africa is highly desirable. Proven ability to develop training materials using adult-learning principles and excellent communication skills are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in relevant fields such as development studies, social sciences, environmental science, or disaster management. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of resilience building and the various methodologies that can be applied in the field.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 7 years of experience in designing and implementing capacity building initiatives that focus on enhancing community resilience to natural disasters and climate change impacts. This experience should include strong skills in conducting needs assessments, developing training programs, and facilitating learning processes. Familiarity with resilience concepts and methodologies, particularly in the context of Zimbabwe or sub-Saharan Africa, is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zimbabwe would be an asset, as it can enhance communication and engagement with community members and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Harare, Zimbabwe. The successful candidate will report directly to the RKH Team Leader and work closely with various stakeholders, including government entities, consultants, and partner organizations. Mercy Corps is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and actively seeks to build a team that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. The organization offers a supportive work environment that prioritizes ethical behavior, accountability, and the well-being of all team members.