Job Description
Position: Protection Officer
Company: UNHCR
Location: Nyala, Sudan
Experience: 3-5 years
Education: Bachelor’s degree in relevant field
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Humanitarian Aid
Department: Protection
Salary: SSP 150,000 – 250,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, is a global organization dedicated to protecting the rights and well‑being of refugees, asylum‑seekers, internally displaced persons and stateless individuals. With a presence in more than 130 countries, UNHCR operates in Sudan to provide life‑saving assistance, legal protection, and durable solutions for millions of displaced people affected by conflict and environmental challenges. The agency collaborates closely with the Government of Sudan, local NGOs, and international partners to ensure that humanitarian standards are upheld and that vulnerable populations receive timely support. As part of its mission, UNHCR continuously seeks skilled professionals who are committed to humanitarian principles and can contribute to the organization’s strategic objectives in the region.
Job Overview
The Protection Officer will play a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and monitoring protection interventions for refugees and internally displaced persons in the Nyala region. This position involves direct engagement with affected communities, coordination with local authorities, and the preparation of comprehensive reports that inform policy and program decisions. The successful candidate will work within the Protection Department to ensure that UNHCR’s protection standards are applied consistently, and that the rights of vulnerable groups are safeguarded. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence humanitarian outcomes, develop professional expertise, and contribute to sustainable solutions in a challenging environment. For more information about UNHCR’s work in Sudan, visit the main job portal Sudan Job Search.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct protection assessments and case management for refugees, asylum‑seekers, and IDPs.
- Develop and implement protection strategies that align with UNHCR policies and local regulations.
- Facilitate community‑based protection mechanisms, including safe spaces and legal aid clinics.
- Coordinate with government officials, NGOs, and other UN agencies to ensure a coherent protection response.
- Prepare detailed protection reports, situation analyses, and advocacy briefs for senior management and donors.
- Monitor and evaluate the impact of protection activities, recommending adjustments as needed.
- Provide training and capacity‑building support to local partners on protection standards and best practices.
- Ensure compliance with UNHCR’s safeguarding and child protection policies.
Required Skills
- Strong knowledge of international refugee law, human rights standards, and protection frameworks.
- Excellent analytical and report‑writing abilities, with attention to detail.
- Proven experience in community engagement and stakeholder coordination.
- Fluency in Arabic and English; additional local languages are an asset.
- Ability to work under pressure in a volatile security environment.
- Effective interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity.
- Proficiency in MS Office and data management tools.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Human Rights, Social Sciences, Law, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or advanced training in protection, humanitarian affairs, or a comparable field is highly desirable.
Experience
Applicants must have a minimum of three to five years of professional experience in protection programming, refugee assistance, or related humanitarian work. Experience working in Sudan or similar contexts is preferred.
Salary
The position offers a competitive salary ranging from SSP 150,000 to SSP 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additional benefits are provided in accordance with UNHCR’s staff welfare policies.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision care.
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
- Paid annual leave and humanitarian leave provisions.
- Opportunities for professional development and field‑based training.
- Relocation assistance and housing allowance for eligible candidates.
Training
- Orientation program on UNHCR policies, security protocols, and Sudan operations.
- Ongoing capacity‑building workshops on protection standards, gender‑based violence response, and legal advocacy.
- Access to UNHCR’s global learning platform for continuous skill enhancement.
Working Environment
The role is based in Nyala, a key hub for humanitarian activities in South Darfur. The office operates in a collaborative, multicultural setting with staff from diverse backgrounds. While the security situation can be fluid, UNHCR provides robust safety measures, regular security briefings, and support systems to ensure staff well‑being. Employees are encouraged to maintain a healthy work‑life balance and to engage in community outreach initiatives.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit an online application through the UNHCR careers portal, attaching a current CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For additional career resources, visit Senegal Job Search.
Equal Opportunity Statement
UNHCR is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.