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. Their strategic locations facilitate a greater reach and contribute to bridging the gap between humanitarian aid and development cooperation, focusing on equitable access to basic services and strengthening the rights of displaced individuals and returnees. NRC also has sub-offices in Dikwa, Monguno, Biu, Mubi, Pulka, and Gwoza, enhancing their operational capacity in the region.

Job Overview:
The Livelihoods and Food Security Technical Assistant will be responsible for the day-to-day implementation of the Food Security project in Maiduguri Area North office. This role involves working closely with Livelihoods and Food Security Officers to implement various activities related to agriculture, income generation, vocational training, and livestock management. The assistant will play a crucial role in ensuring that project activities are executed according to established strategies, proposals, budgets, and plans. The position requires a proactive approach to community engagement, ensuring that local leaders and community members are informed and involved in project activities. The assistant will also be responsible for data collection for monitoring and evaluation purposes, as well as preparing reports and documentation as required by management. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about supporting refugees and displaced persons and are committed to making a positive impact in their communities.

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

• Adhering to NRC policies, tools, handbooks, and guidelines.
• Assisting with the implementation of the support function portfolio according to the plan of action.
• Preparing and developing status reports as required by management.
• Ensuring proper filing of documents and promoting ideas for improvement of the support function.
• Supervising the timely distribution of materials and equipment in accordance with procedures.
• Engaging with communities and community leaders to inform them about project activities, aims, and objectives.
• Exploring and facilitating the introduction of new technologies and methods to improve activity quality.
• Implementing livelihoods and food security activities in collaboration with LFS Officers, focusing on agriculture, income generation activities, vocational training, and livestock management.
• Supporting the registration of project participants under the supervision of the officer. 1
• Participating in data collection for project monitoring and evaluation. 1
• Coordinating and implementing activities according to strategy, proposals, budgets, and plans. 1
• Ensuring adherence to NRC policies and donor requirements. 1
• Facilitating the distribution of project materials and equipment according to procedures. 1
• Preparing weekly progress reports and other required documentation. 1
• Supervising, training, and developing a team of community facilitators, volunteers, and survey enumerators. 1
• Supporting stakeholders and partners in training project participants. 1
• Planning and coordinating advocacy initiatives to foster collaboration between stakeholders. 1
• Coordinating with stakeholders and partners in training project participants on small-scale business, income-generating activities, vocational training, and livestock management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• Experience working in a humanitarian or recovery context.
• Previous experience in complex and volatile environments.
• Documented results related to the responsibilities of the position.
• Some knowledge of English, Hausa, and Kunuri is required.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• A commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and integrity in all aspects of work.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a BSc or HND in Agriculture, Education, Economics, Social Sciences, or a related field. Candidates with relevant educational qualifications will be preferred, especially those with experience in the context of Borno State.

Experience:
A minimum of one year of experience in a related position is required. Candidates should have experience and understanding of the selection, planning, and management of income-generating activities (IGAs), both on-farm and off-farm. Experience in 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 highly valued, as is knowledge of the specific context in Borno State.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position include English, Hausa, and Kunuri. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with project participants and stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, with a contract duration of 8 months, with the possibility of extension. The position is classified at Grade 4 in NRC's grading structure. The reporting line for this role is to the Livelihoods and Food Security Coordinator. This position is open to Nigerian nationals only, and applications from all qualified and interested candidates are encouraged. Female candidates are strongly advised to apply. Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications early, as screening may occur prior to the vacancy deadline.