1. Introduction to the Job
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is hiring a Humanitarian Affairs Officer (HAO) – Emergency Response Preparedness (ERP) to strengthen emergency response efforts in Islamabad, Pakistan. This is a full-time, on-site role focused on ensuring timely humanitarian assistance, disaster preparedness, and effective coordination among government agencies and humanitarian organizations.
Pakistan is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, frequently affected by floods, droughts, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. The devastating 2022 floods impacted 33 million people, leaving over 20 million in need of humanitarian aid. In response, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has expanded its efforts in coordination, resource mobilization, advocacy, and information management.
As a Humanitarian Affairs Officer, you will be responsible for strengthening emergency response preparedness (ERP), coordinating OCHA Antenna offices, and ensuring collaboration between humanitarian actors and government bodies. This role is ideal for professionals with a background in disaster management, emergency response, humanitarian coordination, and advocacy.
2. Key Responsibilities
As a Humanitarian Affairs Officer, you will:
- Develop and implement emergency response plans in collaboration with NDMA, PDMA, DDMA, ISCG, EWG, and other stakeholders.
- Ensure effective coordination between government authorities, humanitarian organizations, and OCHA Antenna offices.
- Conduct capacity-building programs for disaster management authorities and humanitarian partners to enhance emergency preparedness.
- Lead the development of contingency plans for monsoons, heatwaves, earthquakes, and winterization.
- Support the operationalization of Anticipatory Action (AA) frameworks to minimize disaster impact.
- Draft and review humanitarian reports, including situation reports, appeals, concept notes, and operational updates.
- Lead advocacy efforts to ensure vulnerable communities have access to water, food, shelter, education, and healthcare.
- Facilitate humanitarian access negotiations to assist displaced populations and affected communities.
- Monitor and analyze disaster risks, ensuring timely response strategies.
- Coordinate the implementation of humanitarian response efforts, working closely with UN agencies, NGOs, and local authorities.
- Support government-led initiatives to manage droughts, displacement crises, and other humanitarian emergencies.
- Strengthen the humanitarian coordination system, ensuring effective engagement with Humanitarian Country Team (HCT), Thematic Working Groups, and Sector Leads.
3. Qualifications
To be successful in this role, you should have:
Essential Requirements:
- Educational Background: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Disaster Management, Social Sciences, International Relations, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Professional Experience: At least 5 years of experience in humanitarian affairs, emergency response, disaster management, or related fields.
- Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of humanitarian coordination, emergency preparedness, and response frameworks.
- Communication Skills: Excellent report writing, advocacy, and negotiation skills.
- Collaboration Skills: Experience working with government agencies, UN bodies, NGOs, and local communities.
- Knowledge of UN Systems: Familiarity with UN humanitarian principles, cluster coordination, and response mechanisms.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in crisis communication, risk assessment, and disaster resilience planning.
- Proficiency in data analysis, mapping tools, and humanitarian information management systems.
- Ability to work in high-pressure environments and respond to emergencies efficiently.
4. Benefits
At UNDP Pakistan, we offer:
- Competitive Salary Package based on experience and UN salary scales.
- Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance for employees and dependents.
- Professional Development Opportunities, including training programs, workshops, and exposure to global humanitarian networks.
- A Collaborative Work Environment that promotes teamwork, diversity, and innovation.
- Career Growth Opportunities within the UN system and humanitarian sector.
- Meaningful Work that directly impacts millions of vulnerable people in Pakistan.
5. How to Apply
To apply for the Humanitarian Affairs Officer (ERP) position, follow these steps:
- Prepare Your Resume: Highlight relevant experience in disaster management, emergency response, humanitarian coordination, and policy development.
- Write a Strong Cover Letter: Explain why you are the right fit for this role, emphasizing your skills, experience, and motivation.
- Submit Your Application Online: Visit UNDP’s career portal and follow the application process.
- Deadline for Applications: Ensure you apply before the closing date mentioned on the official job listing.
- Wait for Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews and further assessment.
Start your humanitarian career with UNDP today and contribute to life-saving initiatives in Pakistan!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the work location for this position?
A: This is a full-time, on-site position based in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Q2: What type of experience is required for this role?
A: A minimum of 5 years of experience in humanitarian coordination, emergency response, or disaster management is required. Experience with UN agencies, NGOs, or government disaster management bodies is highly preferred.
Q3: What are the key responsibilities of this role?
A: You will develop emergency response plans, coordinate with humanitarian actors, manage disaster preparedness initiatives, and ensure timely humanitarian interventions.
Q4: What kind of salary and benefits can I expect?
A: The salary is competitive and based on UNDP pay scales. Additional benefits include health insurance, career development programs, and a collaborative work environment.
Q5: How can I improve my chances of getting hired?
A: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills. Showcase your experience in disaster response, coordination, and policy development. Ensure your application is clear, well-structured, and free from errors.
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