Camp and Community Services Officer
Organizational Context
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is a UN entity established in 1949, mandated to assist and protect approximately 5.8 million registered Palestine refugees. Its mission is to support their human development potential pending a just solution. UNRWA operates across education, health, social services, and infrastructure, representing the largest UN operation in the Middle East with over 30,000 staff.
Job Purpose
This role, supervised by the Chief Area Office (CAO), serves as the Agency's representative at the camp and community level. The incumbent liaises with local authorities, community representatives, and humanitarian organizations to ensure the continuity of services, including solid waste management. The position supports delegation visits, acting as an interpreter if needed. It also involves coordinating with various UNRWA programs and staff to address challenges, resolve disputes among refugees, and advise on program integration. The role is crucial for maintaining effective service delivery and communication within the assigned area, contributing to the overall mission of supporting Palestine refugees.
Responsibilities
Represent the Agency at the camp and community level, liaising with local authorities, refugee representatives, and NGOs to ensure service continuity. Support program activities by coordinating with Area Programme Officers and other staff to address challenges and suggest solutions. Act as the Security and Safety focal point, identifying and reporting risks and incidents, and ensuring safety protocols are in place. Monitor the camp environment for neutrality violations and protection issues affecting refugees, working with relevant teams to address concerns. Manage the Camp and Community Services Office, supervising staff and implementing monitoring mechanisms for service quality. Facilitate effective communication, disseminating information about UNRWA programs and initiatives. Serve as the Emergency Preparedness and Response focal point, managing emergency activities and contributing to relevant documentation. Perform other assigned duties.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years' experience in humanitarian, community, or social development, preferably with UN agencies or international NGOs. Proven understanding of the challenges facing Palestine refugees is essential. Residency in the West Bank or Jerusalem is desirable.
Skills
Core Competencies: Communication, Working with People, Drive for Results. Functional Competencies: Relating and Networking, Leading and Supervising, Persuading and Influencing, Deciding and Initiating Action, Adapting and Responding to Change. Additional Skills: Strong management and facilitation, team leadership, consensus building, coordination, negotiation, client-focused approach, planning, decision-making, problem-solving, crisis management, and advocacy.