Project Team Leader

at  International Rescue Committee

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world’s largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), at work in more than 40 countries and more than 25 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. A force for humanity, IRC employees delivers lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity and hope to millions. If you’re a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people world-wide for a better future.
Programs in Italy include Refugee.Info, a web-based information platform, child protection programming targeting unaccompanied children and victims of trafficking, mentoring programs for the socio-economic inclusion of refugee youth, Women Protection and Empowerment (WPE), and education (social-emotional learning and healing classrooms).
Between April and December 2024 IRC Italia will work in a joint effort with UNHCR teams to provide support to persons of concerns in key disembarkation areas as well as in reception facilities and informal settlements in Sicily (including the island of Lampedusa) and Calabria.

JOB OVERVIEW:

We are looking for a highly motivated Protection Team Leader to join our world-class team. As the Protection Team Leader, you will have the unique opportunity to coordinate a roving team that provides assistance to newly arrived people in Southern Italy. With the support of cultural mediators, you will identify individuals with specific needs and refer them to relevant services in the area. In addition, you will ensure effective communication and coordination with experts based in Reggio Calabria and Agrigento/Porto Empedocle, supporting the IRC Program manager in Sicily.
This position offers an exceptional chance to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable populations and contribute to the protection of their rights.
Are you interested? We welcome you to apply!

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in social sciences, humanitarian aid, or a related field.

WORK EXPERIENCE:

• 3 years experience in conducting protection/protection monitoring activities working with local partners, preferably with a nonprofit in the target region.
• Proven experience in field-level representation with collaborators and coordination with other NGOs and/or state public agencies.

DEMONSTRATED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• Excellent communication skills, including a good track record of report writing and liaising with local authorities and partners.
• Predisposed to teamwork, problem-solving, ability to create a proactive environment.
• Excellent knowledge of the Italian legal system linked to the international protection procedure.
• Previous experience in delivering psychological first aid and basic psychosocial support.
• Experience in working with newly arrived migrants in border areas and/or reception facilities.
• Previous experience in working with presumed victims of GBV and presumed victims of trafficking.
• Good knowledge of the survivor-centered and trauma-informed approach, as well as the child-centered approach.
• Politically and culturally sensitive with qualities of patience, tact, and diplomacy.
• Fluency in spoken and written Italian and English, including strong writing skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to use the internet and other digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving purposes.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle. (All relevant expenses will be reimbursed)
• Based or willing to relocate to Catania or its vicinities.
• Promote and actively participate in initiatives and efforts to build team engagement, inclusion, and cohesion in IRC Italy.
• Foster ongoing learning, honest dialogue, and reflection to strengthen safeguarding and to promote IRC values and adherence to IRC policies

Please refer the Job description for details