Job Vacancies at Mercy Corps Nigeria

Job Title: Project Communication Officer

Reference Number: ABV/PRO/2020/0021
Location: Abuja, Nigeria (With an estimated 40% travel to other program locations)
Position Status: Full-time, Field-based, and Regular.

Program / Department Summary

• This is a five-year United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-funded Community Initiative to Promote Peace (CIPP). The CIPP program aims to strengthen conflict prevention, mediation and early warning by facilitating community-led analysis and action to prevent, manage, and mitigate conflict and violent extremism.
• The program will work in twenty-four (24) high-risk local government areas in Benue, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kogi and Plateau states.

General Position Summary

• The Project Communications Officer will be responsible for raising awareness about CIPP-related activities among the government and the Nigerian public at large.
• S/he will be responsible for engaging counterpart organizations and also work with the affiliated Ministries and LGAs to implement CIPP project activities and record their outcomes and learnings.
• An important role of the Project Communications Officer is to produce press releases, and maintain a vibrant approach to developing communication outputs. The Project Communications Officer will report to the Program Manager.
• The position is based in Abuja and it requires up to (40 %) travel to Benue, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kogi and Plateau states.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the project Communications strategy and activities related to project outreach;
• As directed by the program leadership, provide quality control on all reports, publicity materials, and other documents generated from the program with particular emphasis on those for submission to USAID;
• Collect content for weekly, monthly and quarterly status reports;
• Lead on technical writing/editing activities on behalf of the project;
• Draft weekly status reports for submission to USAID and other stakeholders;
• Develop the Project Quarterly Newsletters for dissemination among stakeholders
• Attend meetings with project partners on an ad hoc basis regarding communications, outreach, PR, and media-related issues, program deliverables and reports, and USAID branding and marking guidelines;
• Assist with planning, logistics and attend project events as requested by the program manager, provide technical editing and formatting assistance with program deliverables and reports;
• Utilize creative approaches to content development using graphic design to develop infographics and enhance reports
• Work closely with the program team on tracking reports and deliverables as related to the monitoring and evaluation and program management plan;
• Assist technical staff with public outreach/awareness campaigns;
• Work with partner organizations to assist them in developing and implementing communications strategies;
• Together with the M&E Team, the Senior Program Officers on Policy & Advocacy and Gender develop strategic and targeted content and work with project partner organizations to assist them in engaging in public advocacy/public relations campaigns to raise public awareness;
• Develop daily content tracking mechanism for monitoring of state and federal level newspaper articles and other periodicals, including broadcast media for material substantively affecting the work of CIPP;
• Show a willingness to perform other duties as assigned by the Program Manager.

Supervisory Responsibility:

• None

Accountability:

• Reports Directly To: TBD
• Works Directly With: DCOP, Program Manager, Senior Program Officers, M&E Team, Program Officers, Finance and Operations and Security and safety teams.а

Knowledge and Experience

• At least 3 years of relevant professional experience in roles with increasing levels of responsibility required; Five+ years preferred;а
• Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, Communications, Publishing or similar area required; Master’s Degree preferred;
• Strong communication skills;
• Creative & Innovative mind with a strong emphasis on visual graphic and content design skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe applications and good photography skills;
• Working knowledge of USAID policies, rules and regulations preferred;
• Project management experience a plus;
• Team player, with excellent organizational, high emotional intelligence and people skills, time management, and communication skills in English, both written and oral.а

Success Factors

• The ideal candidate will have a strong curiosity for understanding and working effectively within the complex cultural, political, security and social environment of Nigeria.
• He/She will be an excellent communicator, a creative writer, multi-tasker, and able to work in ambiguous situations.
• He/She will be a tolerant and flexible individual able to work in difficult and stressful environments and follow procedures.
• Mercy Corps team members represent the agency both during and outside work hours when deployed in a field posting or on a visit/STA to a field posting. Team members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and respect local laws, customs and MC’s policies, procedures, and values at all times and in all in-country venues.
• Fostering a diverse and open workplace is an important part of Mercy Corps’ vision. Mercy Corps is an Equal Opportunity Employer regardless of background. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment.

Living Conditions / Environmental Conditions

• The position is based in Abuja and it requires up to 40% travel to field offices.

Job Title: Operations Coordinator

Reference Number: ABV/OPS/2020/0024
Location: Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
Position Status Full-time, Regular

Program / Department Summary

• The Operations department is committed to implementing and maintaining the highest standards of efficiency and integrity in the logistics, administration and procurement of goods and services for Nigeria program in Borno State. The overriding objective for all Mercy Corps procurement, logistics and Administration activities are the prompt and effective provision of procurement, logistical and administrative solutions as well materials and services to Mercy Corps’ beneficiary populations in compliance with Mercy Corps’ and donor policies, procedures, regulations and specifications.

General Position Summary

• The Operations Coordinator is responsible to coordinate, supervise and ensure operations and internal control of Mercy Corps Nigeria in accordance with the latest policies and procedures. The Operations Coordinator will deputize the Operations manager and may be asked to act in the absence of the Operations Manager.
• The Operations Coordinator is instrumental in supporting program activities through his/her services. The Operations Coordinator will coordinate and ensure all administrative and logistics support functions for the Mercy Corps program in Borno State. The successful candidate is expected to travel 50% of his/her time to deep field offices and to program implementation sites to strengthen the skills of logistics and program support staff and ensure compliance with Mercy Corps systems.

Essential Job Functions
Strategy and Vision:

• Provide operational support, coordination, supervision and monitoring activities designed to meet program objectives;
• Implement and enforce relevant Mercy Corps operations systems and policies for field offices in NE.
• Contribute to the country strategic planning process and provide regular updates.
• Coordinate effectively with Mercy CorpsТ Procurement, Administration and Logistics team members to ensure that overall operations structure reflects the best practices

Operations Management:

• The Operations Coordinator will be responsible for the proper functioning of all administration and logistics functions and for the full and proper implementation of Mercy Corps systems, processes compliance and control with regard to the following:

Administration Supervision:

• Ensure Admin. Systems are implemented as outlined in the Field Administration Manual.
• Oversee appropriate file management for administration and logistics resources documents.
• Oversee facility management, including housing and office leases; ensure that security standards are maintained at all premises.
• Be responsible for any necessary expatriate work permits and travel/movement management.
• Supervise Administrative Officer

Logistics Supervision:

• Ensure warehouse procedures are followed as described in the Warehouse Policy and Procedures Guidelines.
• Establish and maintain a pipeline of supplies, overseeing the logistical aspects of the operation; oversee commodity storage and movements as needed.
• Supervise the fleet management team and ensure systems to track maintenance, fuel usage and vehicle scheduling.
• Liaise with finance to ensure compliance and payment schedules; maintain service contracts.
• Coordinate logistical (non-program) aspects of material aid projects and associated shipments; manage importation and customs clearance elements. Oversee equipment registration, licensing, etc.
• Ensure the maintenance of inventory records of materials and materials flow and oversee the tracking of all non-expendable property, assets, and equipment
• Maintain safe and secure facilities (offices, guesthouses, warehouses) by overseeing the responsibilities of hired security guards

Other Responsibilities:

• Brief guards and drivers on any immediate security threats and provide training as necessary, facilitate any incident reporting requirements as required,
• Ensure that Mercy Corps contracts and business transactions/relationships are transparent and in compliance with country law and Mercy Corps/donor policies;
• Conduct himself/herself both professionally and personally in such a manner as to bring credit to Mercy Corps and to not jeopardize its humanitarian mission.

Team Management:

• Work with Mercy Corps staff to ensure smooth introduction and operation of necessary systems, including travel to field offices in order to provide hands-on practical training to staff;а

Implement and enforce relevant Mercy Corps operations systems and policies for field offices in NE.

• Facilitate operations aspects of program planning, and upcoming operations resources needs, especially procurements.
• Assist teams in understanding their roles and responsibilities in terms of interaction with operations.
• Work with finance compliance to mitigate fraud, conflict of interest and legal ramifications of Mercy Corps activities.

Security:

• Ensure compliance with security procedures and policies as determined by country leadership.
• Proactively ensure that team members operate in a secure environment and are aware of policies.

Organizational Learning:

• As part of our commitment to organizational learning and in support of our understanding that learning organizations are more effective, efficient and relevant to the communities they serve, we expect all team members to commit 5% of their time to learning activities that benefit Mercy Corps as well as themselves.

Accountability to Beneficiaries:

• Mercy Corps team members are expected to support all efforts toward accountability, specifically to our beneficiaries and to international standards guiding international relief and development work, while actively engaging beneficiary communities as equal partners in the design, monitoring and evaluation of our field projects.
• Team members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and respect local laws, customs and MC’s policies, procedures, and values at all times and in all in-country venues.

Safeguarding:

• Mercy Corps has zero tolerance of every form of abuse and expects team members, operations and programs to do no harm to the people and communities with which we work or put anyone, especially vulnerable populations at risk of abuse or exploitation.

Supervisory Responsibility

• Operations Officer, Administrative Officer, Logistics Officer

Accountability:

• Reports Directly To: Operations Manager
• Works Directly With: Program and Finance teams.

Knowledge and Experience

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain/logistics/operations Management discipline, business administration, public administration, commerce etc.,
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in operational coordination and support functions with an international non-governmental organization or in the private sector;
• Experience in overseeing logistics operations and systems;
• Demonstrated experience in setting up and managing complex administration and operational systems;
• Minimum of 2 years of experience leading teams in humanitarian assistance and development field;
• Demonstrated understanding of complex emergencies, related security concerns, and appropriate responses to such emergencies;
• Excellent negotiation, representation, skills and the ability to work comfortably with an ethnically diverse staff;
• Excellent verbal and written communication, organizational, prioritization and computer skills in Microsoft Office applications are required;
• Demonstrated attention to detail, ability to follow procedures, meet deadlines and work independently and cooperatively with team members.
• Proven records of successful training and capacity building of staff;
• Knowledge of Mercy Corps systems and procedures (particularly Mercy Corps procurement systems) is desirable;
• Ability and willingness to travel to unstable areas of Borno state and operate comfortably in these areas.

Success Factors:

• Ability to maintain high integrity in performing assigned responsibilities, excellent problem-solving skills, and ability to act as an intermediary between program and operations staff to ensure smooth process flow while maintaining a balance between program implementation and compliance with Mercy Corps and donor policies Fast thinker and creative problem-solving.
• Flexibility and creativity in planning. Ability to take initiative, learn quickly and be accountable for results. Ability to understand the larger picture while remaining focused on the details.
• Awareness of and sensitivity to multi-cultural international development work.
• Even temperament and a good sense of humour. Ability to get along and familiarize with nuanced roles and personalities. High-security awareness.

Job Title: ICT Assistant

Reference Number: ABV/OPS/2020/0023
Location: Yola, Adamawa
Position Status Full-time, Non-exempt, Regular

General Position Summary

• Maintain the current IT system in the Mercy Corps office and ensure the proper functioning of equipment and network to meet office needs and demands in coordination and synchronizing system with the IT Systems Administrator.

Essential Job Responsibilities
Program Management:

• Read and understand the Mercy corps IT Systems Policy on appropriate use. Orient staff on appropriate use and monitor use activities to ensure adherence to these policies.
• Conduct staff training on computer basics and the use of MS Office applications and networking. Assist, as needed, with developing databases or other windows application needs for program and operational staff.
• Responsible use and confidentiality of any information identified as sensitive.
• Regularly update anti-virus programs and ensure the entire network and computers are virus-free.
• Assist the IT Systems Administrator in establishing a clear, back-up policy for the Mercy Corps office and undertake the necessary steps for this activity including designing a schedule and materials list. Ensure back up and archives are made and stored as scheduled.
• Under the guidance of the IT Systems Administrator, undertake the repairing and maintaining of LAN-s, internet systems and general IT maintenance and training as per needs outlined by the Field Manager and Operations Officer.
• Oversee repair of computers and IT equipment at a local level, when possible – facilitate and advise on best, safest and most economic solutions in consultation with the IT Systems Administrator.
• Maintain an efficient Local Area Network for Mercy Corps office. Do not change the current design of configurations without written approval after analysis by the IT Systems Administrator and the Head of Office. Current designs are appropriate for the programmatic needs for the office and any additions or changes require prior approval and planning.
• Identify equipment and accessories required for the smooth functioning of computers and IT equipment in Mercy Corps offices. Facilitate the purchase of items through the Procurement Department.
• Maintain the Mercy Corps mail server and assign addresses as instructed by IT Systems Administrator.
• Assist in administration functions as needed; assist logistics staff in inventorying and tracking IT assets.
• Maintain proper documentation of all IT equipment including; system profiles, warranties and IT stock/accessories; Organize and maintain central filing system of satellite systems in MC office.
• Assist in the identifying specification, relocation and assembly of any equipment including computers, printers, accessories and satellite systems in all offices, as required.
• Conduct himself/herself both professionally and personally in such a manner as to bring credit to Mercy Corps and to not jeopardize its humanitarian mission.
• Security
• Ensure compliance with security procedures and policies as determined by country leadership.
• Proactively ensure that team members operate in a secure environment and are aware of policies.

Organizational Learning:

• As part of our commitment to organizational learning and in support of our understanding that learning organizations are more effective, efficient and relevant to the communities they serve, we expect all team members to commit 5% of their time to learning activities that benefit Mercy Corps as well as themselves.
• Accountability to Beneficiaries
• Mercy Corps team members are expected to support all efforts toward accountability, specifically to our beneficiaries and to international standards guiding international relief and development work, while actively engaging beneficiary communities as equal partners in the design, monitoring and evaluation of our field projects.
• Team members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and respect local laws, customs and MC’s policies, procedures, and values at all times and in all in-country venues.

Safeguarding:

• Mercy Corps has zero tolerance of every form of abuse and expects team members, operations and programs to do no harm to the people and communities with which we work or put anyone, especially vulnerable populations at risk of abuse or exploitation.

Supervisory Responsibility:

• None.

Accountability:

• Reports Directly To: Senior Operations Officer,
• Works Directly With: Coordinate with ICT Administrator

Knowledge and Experience

• A minimum of three years’ experience in the information technology system (IT).
• A relevant University Degree in Computer Sciences is desirable.
• Experience in both hardware and software requirements in local area networking (LAN); experience in the configuration of an internal email system as per the local area networking (LAN).
• Exclusive knowledge of internet, proxy, pop mail, and TCPIP settings, Linux and Windows applications.
• Experience for upright maintenance of all internet account, Logins and account status.
• Demonstrated attention to detail, ability to follow procedures, meet deadlines and work independently and cooperatively with team members is required.
• Ability to troubleshoot, plan and design low maintenance systems is a must.
• Ability to troubleshoot and maintain both wireless and cable connections is required.
• Must understand, follow and implement existing policies on IT equipment use and best practices.

Success Factors

• Conscientious with an excellent sense of judgment
• Ability to work simultaneously on multiple tasks
• Willingness and ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people
• Ability to work as part of a team and coordinate with project personnel
• Good spoken and written English
• Computer literate and strong organizational skills.