Area Project Officer
Organizational Context
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is a UN agency established in 1949, mandated to assist and protect approximately 5.8 million registered Palestine refugees across the Middle East. With over 30,000 staff, it is the largest UN operation in the region, providing essential services including education, healthcare, and social services, funded primarily by voluntary contributions.
Job Purpose
The Area Project Officer is responsible for the effective management and coordination of all area-based activities for the Early Recovery Livelihood (ERL) Project. This includes identifying beneficiaries, facilitating grant distribution, and supervising project staff. The role involves maintaining internal and external contacts, supporting selection committees, and ensuring project activities are implemented inclusively and accessibly, with a focus on gender, disability, protection, and safeguarding. The incumbent reports to the Chief Area Office and supervises a small team, requiring travel within the area to oversee project execution and support beneficiaries.
Responsibilities
Coordinate the day-to-day implementation of ERL project activities and manage the project team, including Business Development Officers, Relief Workers, TVET instructors, and vocational trainers. Identify eligible beneficiaries based on agreed criteria and disseminate project information. Supervise staff, review workplans, and ensure quality in application screening, assessments, and mentoring. Manage grievance systems and finalize beneficiary lists in coordination with camp-level committees. Support training workshops and ensure timely delivery of grants after MoU signing. Coordinate business mentoring visits and review progress against business plans. Document and refer issues related to complaints, risks, and safeguarding. Prepare monthly progress reports and coordinate data collection and monitoring with M&E staff. Ensure project implementation is inclusive and integrates gender, disability, protection, and safeguarding considerations.
Work Experience
Requires at least five years of relevant experience in project management, livelihoods, microfinance, or TVET activities at the community level. This includes a minimum of two years of staff supervision experience within development or humanitarian programs in governmental or non-governmental organizations.
Skills
Communication, Working with People, Drive for Results, Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity.