Livelihoods and Food Security Technical Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) has been operational in Nigeria since 2015, focusing on assisting communities affected by displacement. The organization aims to help these communities meet their basic needs, improve their livelihoods, access essential services, and enhance their resilience to future shocks. NRC operates through six core competencies: water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), Shelter, Education, Information-Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA), Livelihoods and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security (LFS), Camp Management, and Protection. With a workforce of 370 staff, NRC has established a presence in key locations such as Maiduguri, Yola, and Jos, allowing them to respond effectively to the needs of those affected by conflict across North-East and North Central Nigeria. The organization also has sub-offices in Dikwa, Monguno, Biu, Mubi, Pulka, and Gwoza, which enhances their reach and ability to provide humanitarian aid and development cooperation, focusing on equitable access to basic services and strengthening the rights of displaced individuals and returnees.

Job Overview:
The Livelihoods and Food Security Technical Assistant will play a crucial role in the day-to-day implementation of the Food Security project at the Monguno field office. This position requires a passionate individual who is committed to helping refugees and those forced to flee. The assistant will work closely with Livelihoods and Food Security Officers to implement various activities related to agriculture, income generation, vocational training, and livestock management. The role involves coordinating with community leaders and stakeholders to ensure effective project execution and adherence to NRC policies and donor requirements. The assistant will also be responsible for data collection, participant registration, and preparing progress reports, ensuring that all activities align with the strategic goals of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Livelihoods and Food Security Technical Assistant will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Adhering to NRC policies, tools, handbooks, and guidelines.
• Assisting in the implementation of the support function portfolio according to the action plan.
• Preparing and developing status reports as required by management.
• Ensuring proper filing of documents and promoting ideas for improvement.
• Supervising the timely distribution of materials and equipment in accordance with procedures.
• Engaging with communities and leaders to inform them about project activities and objectives.
• Exploring and facilitating the introduction of new technologies and methods to enhance activity quality.
• Implementing livelihoods and food security activities in collaboration with LFS Officers, focusing on agriculture, income generation, vocational training, and livestock management.
• Supporting the registration of project participants and participating in data collection for monitoring and evaluation. 1
• Coordinating and implementing activities according to strategy, proposals, budgets, and plans. 1
• Ensuring adherence to NRC policies and donor requirements throughout project implementation. 1
• Facilitating the distribution of project materials and equipment according to established procedures. 1
• Preparing weekly progress reports and supervising, training, and developing community facilitators and volunteers. 1
• Supporting stakeholder training initiatives and coordinating advocacy efforts to foster collaboration among stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of one year of relevant experience in a humanitarian or recovery context, particularly in complex and volatile environments. They should have documented results related to the responsibilities of the position and some knowledge of English, Hausa, and Kunuri. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to work under pressure, independently, and with limited supervision while maintaining high ethical standards and integrity. Experience in agricultural livelihoods, income-generating activities, and project participant skills training is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should hold a BSc or HND in Agriculture, Education, Economics, Social Sciences, or a related field. A background in the Borno State context is preferred, as it will provide valuable insights into the local challenges and opportunities.

Experience:
A minimum of one year of experience in a related position is required. Candidates should have experience in the selection, planning, and management of income-generating activities, both on-farm and off-farm. Familiarity with agricultural livelihoods, including crop and livestock production, value chain addition, and VSLA (Village Savings and Loan Associations) is essential. Previous experience working in complex and volatile contexts is also necessary, along with the ability to work effectively under pressure and in insecure environments.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of Hausa and Kunuri is considered advantageous. Effective communication skills are essential for engaging with community members and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, with a contract duration of 7 months. The role is classified as Grade 4 in NRC's grading structure, and the reporting line is to the Field Coordinator in Monguno. This position is open exclusively to Nigerian nationals, and applications from qualified and interested candidates are encouraged. Female candidates are strongly advised to apply. Candidates are urged to submit their applications early, as screening may occur prior to the official deadline.