ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION: 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.
SALARY RANGE: Commensurate with experience
BENEFITS: CIVIC offers excellent benefits, including health, dental, life, long-term and short-term disability insurance, 403b retirement plan with 5% employer contribution, paid vacation and sick leave.
DEADLINE: 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.
HOW TO APPLY:
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.
