National Humanitarian Affairs Officer (Nationals Only)

Background

The incumbent supports the implementation of OCHA’s mandate in Syria, focusing on the following sets of activities: a) improving inter-agency humanitarian preparedness and response; b) improve access to areas in need; c) development of humanitarian information networks and database; and d) strengthen coordination with national actors. For this purpose, OCHA works with humanitarian partners in the country.

This position is based within the Coordination Unit. The incumbent will support OCHA Syria office to ensure;

• An effective functioning humanitarian coordination system.
• Humanitarian planning is based on evidence, common situational awareness and coordinated mechanisms.
• Analysis and verification of response is made using context-appropriate corporate tools and methodologies.
• Centrality of Protection is reinforced.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the overall guidance of the Head of the Office and the direct supervision of the Head of Coordination Unit, the incumbent is expected to perform the following tasks:

• Support the overall implementation of office work plan.
• Undertake detailed analysis of the prevailing humanitarian situation, e.g. assess the humanitarian situation in conflict areas, report on IDP and other population movements, identify humanitarian needs and gaps in the response.
• Establish partnerships with other humanitarian agencies in order to plan and evaluate assistance programmes activities, including gender-related considerations;
• Maintain a close working relationship in the field with the relevant government officials to ensure appropriate communication;
• Conduct field visits with the aim to improve the humanitarian response;
• Assist in the monitoring of projects funded by HPF and support the HFU in maintaining contacts with HPF partners;
• Assist in preparation and implementation of IA convoys plans.
• Assist with and attend regular coordination meetings as appropriate;
• Coordinate humanitarian response and preparedness and provide technical support to sectors as requested;
• Assist in the establishment and maintenance of contacts with other UN agencies, NGOs, other humanitarian actors and relevant government counter parts;
• Help establish, consolidate and maintain a 4W database;
• Support field missions of OCHA staff, donors and other visitors and conduct briefings 

Work implies frequent interaction with the following:

• UN agencies 
• International and national humanitarian actors 
• Relevant government authorities.

Results Expected: 

The key impact is a timely and coordinated humanitarian response which responds to assessed needs, identifies gaps and addresses these in a coherent manner. 

Competencies

Functional Competencies: 

• Professionalism: Knowledge of wide range of humanitarian assistance, emergency relief and related human rights issues.  Conceptual and strategic analytical capacity, to include ability to analyze and articulate the humanitarian dimension of complex issues that require a coordinated UN response. Demonstrated problem-solving skills and judgment in applying technical expertise to resolve a wide range of complex issues/problems. Knowledge of region or country of assignment, including the political, economic and social dimensions. Ability to negotiate and to influence others to reach agreement.  Ability to work under extreme pressure, on occasion in a highly stressful environment (e.g. civil strife, natural disasters and human misery). Knowledge of institutional mandates, policies and guidelines pertaining to humanitarian affairs and knowledge of the institutions of the UN system. Demonstrated ability to complete in-depth studies and to formulate conclusions/recommendations.  Ability to relate humanitarian affairs issues and perspectives, including gender issues, to political, economic, social and human rights programmes in affected country/region.  Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Able to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management.
• Communication:  Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
• Teamwork:  Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
• Planning& Organizing:  Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• Master's degree or equivalent in Economics, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Sciences, or related field is required.
• First level university degree in Economics, Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Sciences, or related field combined with 2 years of experience may be considered in lieu of advanced university degree.

Experience:

• Applicants with a Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field of study are not required to have professional work experience.
• Applicants with a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) are required to have a minimum of two (2) years of relevant professional experience in humanitarian preparedness and response.
• Experience in the region would be an asset.
• Excellent networking and engagement skills are strongly desired.
• Previous experience working with UN would be advantageous. 
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.). is strongly desired.

Language:

• Fluency in English and Arabic (both oral and written) is required.

Equal opportunity

As an equal opportunity employer, UNOCHA values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination. 

UNOCHA is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

UNOCHA does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles. 

Probation

For all new UNOCHA fixed term appointments (FTA), including for staff members being transferred or seconded to UNOCHA under the Inter-Organization Agreement concerning Transfer, Secondment or Loan of Staff, on an appointment of more than one year, continuation of the appointment beyond the initial 12 months is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period.

Right to select multiple candidates

UNOCHA reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNOCHA at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

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