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Position Title: Livelihoods and Food Security Officer
Location: Maiduguri, Mafa
Country: Nigeria
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) has been operational in Nigeria since 2015, focusing on assisting displacement-affected communities in meeting their Basic Needs, improving livelihoods, accessing essential services, and enhancing 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 Food Security (LFS), Camp Management, and Protection. With a workforce of 370 staff, NRC has established a presence in key locations including Maiduguri, Yola, and Jos, allowing it to respond effectively to the needs of those affected by conflict across North-East and North Central Nigeria. The organization aims to bridge 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 has sub-offices in Dikwa, Monguno, Biu, Mubi, Pulka, and Gwoza, enhancing its operational reach and effectiveness in the region.

Job Overview:
The Livelihoods and Food Security Officer will be responsible for the day-to-day implementation of livelihood and food security projects at the field level. This role requires a proactive approach to ensure adherence to NRC policies, tools, handbooks, and guidelines while implementing the LFS project portfolio according to the established plan of action. The officer will prepare and develop status reports as required by management, ensure proper filing of documents, and promote ideas for technical improvement. The role also involves timely procurement, development, and distribution of project materials and equipment, as well as engaging with communities and leaders to inform them about NRC activities and policies. The officer will explore and facilitate the introduction of new technologies and methods to improve the quality of activities, ensuring that projects target beneficiaries most in need and assessing new ways to assist them effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specific responsibilities of the Livelihoods and Food Security Officer include coordinating food security and livelihoods activities according to the strategic plans, proposals, budgets, and donor requirements. The officer will convert annual operational plans into monthly and quarterly implementation plans, coordinate with relevant partners to avoid overlaps, and prepare periodic progress reports. Conducting livelihood assessments and presenting results will be essential, as well as coordinating with key stakeholders for the registration of project beneficiaries. The officer will also facilitate training for project beneficiaries and Financial Inclusion activities. Additional responsibilities include documenting results related to the position's responsibilities, mobilizing communities, interacting with government education authorities, and ensuring compliance with humanitarian, development, and protection standards in the field.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a BSc or HND in Agronomy, Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Extension, Crop Science, or a related field. A minimum of three years of working experience in a related position is required, with preference given to candidates with experience in the Borno State context. Proven experience in implementing livelihood activities, cash/voucher transfers, and managing income generation activities (IGAs) is essential. Candidates should have experience in beneficiary skills training and working in complex and volatile contexts, with a strong understanding of Data Collection, Analysis, and documentation of results. Good command of English, both written and oral, is mandatory, along with fluency in Hausa and preferably one additional local language.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a BSc or HND in relevant fields such as Agronomy, Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Extension, or Crop Science. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of livelihood and food security projects and for effectively implementing strategies that address the needs of affected communities.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant working experience, particularly in humanitarian or recovery contexts. Experience managing program staff and implementing livelihood activities is preferred. Candidates should have documented results related to their responsibilities and experience working in complex and volatile environments, particularly in Borno State.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and oral. Candidates must also be fluent in Hausa, with proficiency in additional local languages considered an advantage. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication with beneficiaries and stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Mafa, Borno State, Nigeria, with a contract duration of three months, which is renewable based on performance and funding availability. The position is classified as Grade 5 in NRC's grading structure and reports to the Field Coordinator. It is open to Nigerian nationals only, and candidates are encouraged to apply early as applications may be screened prior to the vacancy deadline. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, reflecting NRC's commitment to gender equality and diversity in the workplace.