HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS OFFICER

Organizational Context

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), part of the UN Secretariat, mobilizes and coordinates effective humanitarian action. This role is within the Crisis Response Division, located in San Cristobal, Venezuela, reporting to the Head of Coordination Unit. The position supports OCHA's mission to alleviate suffering and advocate for those in need.

Job Purpose

The Humanitarian Affairs Officer will monitor and analyze humanitarian developments, disaster relief, and emergency situations in a designated area. This role involves preparing studies, reports, and situation papers to inform policy and decision-making. The incumbent will participate in complex projects, coordinate international humanitarian assistance, and ensure necessary support is provided. Collaboration with humanitarian agencies, government officials, and other stakeholders is crucial for planning and evaluating assistance programs. The position also involves providing advice on humanitarian principles and policy, supporting advocacy initiatives, and guiding OCHA staff in the San Cristobal sub-office to ensure effective delivery of humanitarian aid.

Responsibilities

Monitor, analyze, and report on humanitarian developments and emergency situations. Organize and prepare studies on humanitarian relief issues, including interagency meetings for policy development. Draft situation papers and reports detailing operational factors affecting humanitarian response. Participate in needs assessments and complex projects, coordinating international humanitarian assistance and ensuring resource provision. Collaborate with humanitarian agencies to plan and evaluate programs, incorporating lessons learned and gender considerations. Maintain contact with government officials, UN agencies, NGOs, and media. Support field missions for in-depth reviews of coordination mechanisms. Prepare various written reports, documents, and communications. Support advocacy initiatives by collecting information and liaising with stakeholders. Advise on policy issues related to humanitarian principles and effective assistance delivery. Organize and participate in meetings and consultations on humanitarian matters. Supervise OCHA staff in the San Cristobal sub-office.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive experience in humanitarian affairs, emergency preparedness, crisis management, or related fields is required. Field experience in emergency situations (complex emergencies or natural disasters) is essential. Experience in the Latin America region is also required. Experience supervising a team in a humanitarian context is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, teamwork, client orientation, analytical skills, research capabilities, ability to work under pressure, communication, coordination, policy advice, advocacy support, supervision.

Explore related opportunities