ICLA and Community Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is focused on humanitarian assistance and community development, operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It aims to enhance social cohesion and provide legal assistance to vulnerable communities. The organization has been active in the region for several years, working closely with local communities to address issues related to land, property, and housing rights. It employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to improving the living conditions of those affected by conflict and displacement.

Job Overview:
The ICLA and Community Project Officer will play a crucial role in implementing ICLA activities and executing community projects prioritized by local communities. The position involves working under the supervision of the Field Office Coordinator and requires a proactive approach to strengthen horizontal and vertical social cohesion. The officer will be responsible for planning, preparing, implementing, monitoring, and reporting on ICLA activities in the Beni territory. This includes conducting protection analyses, assessing risks, and developing strategies for prevention and mitigation. The officer will also engage in capacity building for local structures, organize training sessions, and facilitate community dialogues on protection risks and sustainable solutions. The role demands a strong commitment to community engagement and advocacy for land reform and women's access to land rights in the DRC.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the ICLA and Community Project Officer include:

• Planning and implementing ICLA activities in the Beni territory.
• Conducting protection risk assessments and developing prevention strategies.
• Identifying and strengthening local dispute resolution structures.
• Designing training modules and organizing training activities for target groups.
• Conducting information sessions on land tenure, governance, and legal procedures.
• Organizing community dialogues and consultations on protection risks and sustainable solutions.
• Coordinating advocacy efforts for land reform and women's access to land.
• Supporting secure access to agricultural land and restitution of land and property for displaced persons.
• Collaborating with humanitarian coordination and protection clusters. 1
• Supervising community assemblies and establishing execution committees for community projects. 1
• Providing technical support for the development of community project proposals. 1
• Organizing workshops for project development with stakeholder participation. 1
• Ensuring compliance with project standards and reporting on community projects.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a university degree (3 years) in law or a related field. They should have at least one year of cumulative experience as a project assistant or officer in legal assistance or a similar role. The candidate must demonstrate specific technical knowledge in the development, implementation, and technical monitoring of community projects. They should also have experience in legal counseling, civil documentation, and housing, land, and property issues in a humanitarian context. Experience in advocacy, community mobilization, and local governance is essential. The candidate should be Congolese and have a deep understanding of the North Kivu region and Beni's context.

Educational Background:
A university degree in law or a related field is required for this position. The educational background should include knowledge of legal frameworks, community development principles, and humanitarian assistance practices. Additional training or certifications in project management or community engagement would be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of one year of relevant experience in project assistance or legal support roles. Experience in complex and volatile contexts is preferred, along with a proven track record of working with communities to address legal and social issues. Familiarity with community-driven development approaches and conflict-sensitive strategies is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken French is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages such as Swahili, Lingala, Lendu, and Hema is highly desirable. Basic knowledge of English will be considered an asset, enhancing communication with international stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Beni, Democratic Republic of Congo. The organization is committed to recruiting nationally and may offer competitive compensation and benefits packages. The role involves significant community engagement and requires the officer to work closely with local authorities and community members to ensure project success.