Batch recruitment of 3 positions: Child Protection Specialist (MHPSS), NO-3, TA (6 Months), Bunia, Beni, Butembo, Democratic Rep of the Congo - WCAR

Organizational Context

UNICEF operates in over 190 countries, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them reach their full potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of our work, viewing the promotion of child rights as a calling. UNICEF offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development, fostering a sense of purpose while serving children and communities globally.

Job Purpose

The Child Protection Specialist (MHPSS) will contribute to the planning, implementation, coordination, and monitoring of child protection interventions within the Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This role focuses on providing psychosocial support (MHPSS) to affected children and families, healthcare workers, and conducting community-level psychoeducation. The specialist will also be responsible for case management and referrals for affected and at-risk children and families, including interim care, reunification, and ensuring access to specialized services. A key aspect of the role involves strengthening the social service workforce system through capacity-building initiatives for social workers, para-social staff, and psychologists, ensuring a robust and responsive child protection framework in a complex emergency setting.

Responsibilities

Strengthen the social service workforce and case management systems by providing training and ongoing support to social workers, para-social staff, and psychologists. Develop and implement effective case management protocols for children and families affected by the Ebola outbreak, ensuring timely referrals to appropriate services. Lead and coordinate the provision of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) interventions, including direct support to children and families, and psychoeducation for communities and healthcare workers. Foster intersectoral coordination and integration of child protection activities with other response sectors, such as health and education. Design and implement capacity-building initiatives to enhance the skills and knowledge of partners and frontline workers in child protection and MHPSS. Conduct regular monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of child protection activities, ensuring data quality and timely submission of reports to inform program adjustments and strategic decision-making. Contribute to the development of strategies and work plans for child protection in emergency settings, aligning with UNICEF's global and country-specific priorities. Ensure that all interventions are child-centered, culturally sensitive, and adhere to international child protection standards and guidelines.

Work Experience

A minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in child protection in emergency settings, MHPSS, case management, and social work.

Skills

Child Protection in Emergency Settings, Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), Case Management, Social Work, Capacity Building, Intersectoral Coordination, Monitoring and Evaluation, Reporting, Community Engagement, Emergency Response, UNICEF Core Values, UNICEF Competencies

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