United States of America: Program Officer - Nigeria & the Lake Chad Basin


Center for Civilians in Conflict’s mission is to improve protection for civilians caught in conflicts around the world. We call on and advise international organizations, governments, militaries, and armed non-state actors to adopt and implement policies, tools, and training to prevent civilian harm. When civilians are harmed we advocate for the provision of amends and post-harm assistance. We bring the voices of civilians themselves to those making decisions affecting their lives.


JOB PURPOSE: Carry out programmatic work within CIVIC’s Nigeria program portfolio


LOCATION: Washington, DC


TRAVEL: Up to 40% required (domestic and international)


REPORTING TO: Senior Program Manager (SPM) for Africa & Peacekeeping


STAFF REPORTING: Interns, researchers, some field-based staff


KEY FUNCTIONS: Support projects in CIVIC’s Nigeria program portfolio with core responsibilities including research, writing, representation, training, and advocacy; and work with SPM to develop strategy and programs, and manage projects.


QUALITIES SOUGHT:


  • Well organized, self-motivated, and able to conceptualize, manage, and implement projects in stressful environments;

  • Knowledge of Nigeria & the Lake Chad Basin region including related to the conflict with Boko Haram;

  • In-depth understanding of civilian protection issues in armed conflict;

  • Experience in Nigeria and/or conflict-affected regions of Africa conducting research and carrying out other program work;

  • Experience working in a fast-paced program environment;

  • Proven ability to think analytically and plan strategically, including setting objectives and identifying and capitalizing on opportunities for our work;

  • Poise, flexibility, discretion, and mature judgment to handle and respond appropriately and professionally in a fast-paced, high-pressure atmosphere;

  • Willingness to work with security forces and understanding of the military/civilian/humanitarian spaces;

  • Outstanding communications and writing skills;

  • Experience in security force training and participatory facilitation preferred.

  • Experience overseeing or interfacing with field-based staff preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS:**


  • B.A. in international affairs, political science, African studies, or related area; MA, MS, or JD preferred;

  • Minimum 3-5 years relevant full-time staff level work experience required, including work in active and recently active conflict zones (minimum 3 years with graduate degree, minimum 5 years without graduate degree);

  • Minimum 1-year relevant field experience;

  • Demonstrated tireless work ethic;

  • Passion for CIVIC’s subject matter and willingness to take on the responsibilities and duties as a key member of our team; and

  • English language fluency mandatory. Advanced proficiency in French preferred.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:


  • Work with SPM and other POs to design, manage, and implement programs in support of CIVIC’s Nigeria program;

  • Travel regularly (with other CIVIC staff and alone) to focus countries (could include: Nigeria, Chad, Niger, Cameroon, and engagement with key troop-contributing countries to regional operations) to maximize the effectiveness of CIVIC’s work;

  • Identify new partnerships with like-minded NGOs and actors in the field;

  • Conduct desk and field research and assessments to inform fresh policy, practice, and training recommendations for diverse stakeholders to improve civilian protection;

  • Support the design and implementation of scenario-based training programs for security forces engaged in operations in Nigeria;

  • Build strong working relationships with the Nigerian government and the Lake Chad Basin Commission and security forces (including Multinational Joint Task Force-MNJTF) to advance CIVIC’s mission through strategic partnerships;

  • Support the development and implementation of the Nigeria program strategy within CIVIC’s overall organizational strategy by consulting with staff, partner, and other interested parties;

  • Research and draft publications (reports, briefing papers, etc) and advocacy materials discussing CIVIC’s Nigeria work;

  • Draft op-eds, blogs, and articles highlighting issues important to CIVIC when possible;

  • Speak with media about our Nigeria work;

  • Work with ED, Senior Program Manager, and Development team to identify possible funding opportunities for program work;

  • Represent CIVIC with NGO networks and government stakeholders and promote effective collaborations and partnerships;

  • Perform other duties as required to further the organization’s mission and goals.



How to apply:


Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis and qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. The deadline for applying is March 22, 2016. Please apply early.


APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Please send a resume, an unedited writing sample (maximum 5 pages), and a cover letter describing your motivations for applying to employment@civiliansinconflict.org. Please write ATTN: Program Officer, Nigeria in the subject line.





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