National Volunteer for Risk and Vulnerability Assessments

Job Posting Organization:
VSO is the world’s leading international non-governmental organization that operates through volunteers to create a fair world for everyone. Established to address global inequalities, VSO has mobilized over 7,700 dedicated individuals from various countries in 2022/23 alone, impacting nearly 11 million people across 35 countries. The organization focuses on marginalized groups, including those living in extreme poverty, individuals with disabilities, and those facing discrimination due to gender, sexuality, or social status. VSO emphasizes the importance of viewing these individuals not merely as beneficiaries of aid but as primary actors in their own transformation, driving sustainable, locally-led change.

Job Overview:
The primary purpose of this role is to support the implementation of risk and vulnerability assessments and the Women, Peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Index study specifically in the Mindanao Region of the Philippines. The job holder will collaborate closely with the Monitoring and Evaluation Project Officer to develop a digital dashboard that will facilitate the effective use of data collected during these assessments. This position is crucial for ensuring that the insights gained from the assessments are effectively utilized to inform strategies and interventions aimed at enhancing resilience and social cohesion within the communities served. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in resilience building and the women, peace, and security agenda, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, facilitation abilities, and proficiency in report writing.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities for this position include:

• Supporting the implementation of risk and vulnerability assessments in the Mindanao Region, ensuring that the process is inclusive and participatory.
• Collaborating with the Monitoring and Evaluation Project Officer to design and develop a digital dashboard that effectively presents data and findings from the assessments.
• Engaging with local communities to gather qualitative and quantitative data, ensuring that the voices of marginalized groups are heard and represented.
• Analyzing data collected from assessments and contributing to the development of reports that highlight key findings and recommendations.
• Facilitating workshops and meetings with stakeholders to disseminate findings and foster discussions on resilience and social cohesion strategies.
• Building and maintaining relationships with local partners, community leaders, and other stakeholders to support the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security Index study.
• Participating in training and capacity-building initiatives to enhance the skills of local volunteers and community members involved in the assessments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in resilience building and/or social cohesion, with specific experience related to the women, peace, and security agenda. Excellent interpersonal skills are essential, as the role requires effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong facilitation skills and the ability to write clear and concise reports that effectively communicate findings and recommendations. The ability to adapt to new situations and work collaboratively in a team environment is also crucial.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in social sciences, international development, peace studies, or a related field is preferred. Candidates with practical experience in the field may be considered in lieu of formal educational qualifications, provided they can demonstrate the necessary skills and knowledge required for the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have prior experience working in roles related to resilience building, social cohesion, or peacebuilding initiatives. Experience in conducting assessments, working with marginalized communities, and engaging in participatory research methods will be highly valued. Familiarity with the Women, Peace and Security agenda is essential, as is the ability to navigate complex social dynamics within the communities served.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all reports and communications will be conducted in English. Proficiency in local languages spoken in the Mindanao Region would be advantageous and is considered a plus, as it would facilitate better engagement with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national volunteer role, specifically open to nationals of the Philippines, as VSO is unable to provide sponsorship for this position. Volunteers will receive an allowance paid in local currency, which is intended to cover reasonable living expenses within the country, although it may not be sufficient for sending money home. Accommodation provided will be basic, reflecting the organization's work with some of the poorest communities in the world. The application closing date is set for February 28, 2025, with the anticipated start date in April 2025.