HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICER / Chief of Investigations (Temporary Job Opening)

Organizational Context

This position is based in Juba, South Sudan, within the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan. The role operates under the direct supervision of the Coordinator of the Commission, contributing to its mandate in monitoring and reporting on human rights.

Job Purpose

The Human Rights Officer is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Commission’s investigations team. This includes developing and implementing investigation plans, adapting methodologies for data collection and processing, and overseeing evidence gathering activities. The role ensures the protection of victims and witnesses, coordinates the drafting of internal analyses, and revises team inputs to maintain high-quality investigation reports. A key aspect is integrating a gender perspective throughout all work, from planning to reporting, and ensuring the secure handling of information and data.

Responsibilities

Manage the daily operations of the investigations team, including planning and organizing missions to relevant sites. Serve as the primary reporting officer for the Human Rights Officers/Investigators. Develop comprehensive investigation, information gathering, and operational plans adhering to standard OHCHR methodology, ensuring the integration of a gender perspective. Adapt and implement tools for data collection and processing. Oversee and conduct interviews and other evidence gathering activities. Develop and manage plans for victim and witness protection and referral pathways. Coordinate the drafting of internal analyses and revise all team contributions to ensure the highest quality of investigation, corroboration, analysis, conclusions, and recommendations in final reports. Ensure the proper handling, secure storage, and preservation of information and data in collaboration with the Information Management and Evidence Unit. Incorporate a gender perspective across all work areas, particularly in investigations, information gathering, analysis, and reporting. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive work experience in human rights, international humanitarian law, or international criminal law is required. This includes at least two years of experience in investigating international human rights law violations with relevant bodies or tribunals. Experience leading a team and working in or on the region are desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, teamwork, planning and organizing, performance management, research and analytical skills, knowledge of human rights issues and organizations, ability to conduct investigations and draft reports, gender mainstreaming, and effective communication.

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