Humanitarian Access and Safety Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an international humanitarian organization founded in Denmark in 195

• With a mission to assist refugees and internally displaced persons globally, DRC provides emergency aid, advocates for their rights, and works towards sustainable solutions for their integration and potential return home. The organization has grown significantly over the years, employing over 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers, and operates in more than 40 countries. DRC is based in Copenhagen, Denmark, and is recognized for its non-profit, politically independent, non-governmental, and non-denominational approach to humanitarian relief. The organization's vision is to ensure a dignified life for all displaced individuals, guided by core values such as humanity, respect, independence, neutrality, participation, honesty, and transparency.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Access and Safety Specialist will be responsible for managing the Safety Risk Management (SRM) system across Cameroon, ensuring that DRC's operations are conducted safely and effectively. This role involves supporting strategic partners in implementing safety and access roadmaps and action plans, particularly in the context of the FLASH project. The specialist will dedicate 25% of their time to addressing Access and Safety needs in Yaoundé and other operational bases. The position requires a proactive approach to facilitate program access and continuity, providing reliable advice and timely actions to ensure compliance with DRC's safety policies. The specialist will also work closely with local partners to assess their needs and build their capacity in safety and access management, incorporating best practices and lessons learned from local contexts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties and responsibilities of the Humanitarian Access and Safety Specialist include managing the development and implementation of DRC's Safety Risk Management System (SRMS) in the Northwest and other areas of Cameroon. The specialist will facilitate program access and continuity by providing reliable advice and timely actions, ensuring compliance with DRC safety policies, and maintaining effective communication within the NW operation and with the Country Office. Responsibilities also include conducting regular Safety Risk Assessments (SRA), developing Safety Improvement Plans, and acting as the primary point of contact for safety-related matters. The specialist will conduct safety training for staff, assess the capacity building needs of local partners, and maintain detailed records of safety documents and incident reports. Additionally, the specialist will produce analyses and evaluations on humanitarian access and engage with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that access negotiations respect humanitarian principles and minimize harm to affected populations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in political science, peace and conflict studies, history, disaster management, or military education. Essential qualifications include a minimum of 3-5 years of experience as a safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-manager" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security manager/advisor with an INGO, proven ability to conduct needs assessments and capacity building, and experience in coaching partners. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to develop and implement effective protocols and systems, conduct high-quality safety risk assessments, and manage critical incidents. Experience working in hostile environments and multicultural settings is also required. Desirable qualifications include valid HEAST or HEAT training.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in relevant fields such as political science, peace and conflict studies, history, disaster management, or military education. This advanced education is essential for understanding the complexities of humanitarian access and safety management in conflict-affected areas.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in safety and security management within an international non-governmental organization (INGO). Candidates should have a proven track record of conducting needs assessments, capacity building, and developing safety protocols in challenging environments. Experience in critical incident management and working in multicultural settings is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in both French and English is mandatory for this position, as all application materials must be submitted in one of these languages. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of local communities in Cameroon.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve working in challenging and potentially hazardous environments. The DRC emphasizes equal opportunity in employment and prohibits discrimination based on race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability. However, candidates should note that DRC cannot employ nationals of the country in which they will be working under an international contract. The application process requires submission of a cover letter, an updated CV, and references, with applications closing on 07/04/2025 at 23:59 GMT. DRC reserves the right to begin the recruitment process before the closing date if suitable candidates are identified.