Program Officer Job Vacancy in Yambio, South Sudan – Humanitarian & Development

Job Description

Position:Program Officer

Company:UNICEF South Sudan

Location:Yambio, South Sudan

Experience:5+ years

Education:Master’s degree in International Development, Public Policy, or related field

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Humanitarian & Development

Department:Program Management

Salary:12,000,000 SSP – 18,000,000 SSP per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, operates in more than 190 countries and territories, working to protect the rights of children and strengthen families. In South Sudan, UNICEF has been a pivotal partner in delivering life‑saving services, supporting education, health, nutrition, and child protection programs across the nation. The organization collaborates closely with government ministries, local NGOs, and community leaders to ensure that vulnerable children receive the care they need. As part of its commitment to sustainable development, UNICEF South Sudan continuously seeks talented professionals who are passionate about making a tangible impact on the lives of children and their families.

Job Overview

The Program Officer will play a critical role in designing, implementing, and monitoring UNICEF’s development initiatives in the Upper Nile region, with a focus on Yambio and surrounding counties. This position involves close coordination with local authorities, partner NGOs, and community stakeholders to ensure program effectiveness and alignment with UNICEF’s strategic objectives. The successful candidate will contribute to the overall success of UNICEF’s mission in South Sudan, supporting the delivery of high‑quality services that improve child welfare and promote resilience. For more information about the broader landscape of South Sudan Jobs, visit South Sudan Job Search.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage project work plans, budgets, and timelines for child protection, education, and health initiatives.
• Conduct regular field visits to monitor program implementation, assess progress, and identify challenges.
• Prepare detailed reports, case studies, and data analyses for internal and external stakeholders.
• Facilitate capacity‑building workshops for local partners and government officials.
• Coordinate with UNICEF’s global teams to ensure compliance with donor requirements and organizational standards.
• Lead community engagement activities to promote awareness and participation in program activities.
• Support the preparation of funding proposals and contribute to resource mobilization efforts.

Required Skills

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working with diverse cultural groups.
• Proficiency in project management tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently in remote and challenging environments.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Arabic or local languages is an advantage.

Education

A Master’s degree in International Development, Public Policy, Social Sciences, or a related discipline is required. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree combined with extensive relevant experience will also be considered.

Experience

Minimum of five years of professional experience in program management, humanitarian assistance, or development work, preferably within South Sudan or a comparable context. Experience in managing donor‑funded projects and leading multi‑stakeholder collaborations is essential.

Salary

The position offers a competitive salary range of 12,000,000 SSP to 18,000,000 SSP per month, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Additional allowances for field travel and hardship may apply.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Paid annual and sick leave.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Support for relocation and accommodation in Yambio.

Training

• Orientation program on UNICEF policies, child protection standards, and South Sudan operational context.
• Ongoing capacity‑building workshops on project management, monitoring & evaluation, and financial reporting.
• Access to UNICEF’s global learning platform for continuous skill enhancement.

Working Environment

The role is based in Yambio, a vibrant city in Western Equatoria, offering a dynamic blend of urban amenities and close proximity to rural communities. The work environment is collaborative, with regular interaction with local partners, government officials, and community members. Field assignments may require travel to remote locations, often under challenging conditions, demanding adaptability and resilience.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the UNICEF Careers portal, attaching a detailed CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Equal Opportunity Statement

UNICEF 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.