Protection Officer

The Danish Refugee Council assists refugees and internally displaced persons across the globe: we provide emergency aid, fight for their rights, and strengthen their opportunity for a brighter future. We work in conflict-affected areas, along the displacement routes, and in the countries where refugees settle. In cooperation with local communities, we strive for responsible and sustainable solutions. We work toward successful integration and – whenever possible – for the fulfilment of the wish to return home.

The Danish Refugee Council was founded in Denmark in 1956 and has since grown to become an international humanitarian organization with more than 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers. Our vision is a dignified life for all displaced.

All our efforts are based on our value compass: humanity, respect, independence and neutrality, participation.

Overall purpose of the role:

Under the direct management of the Protection Manager and technical supervision of the MHPSS Specialist, the PSS Officer is responsible for implementing psychosocial support activities, including structured, serialized group sessions, individual PSS counseling, and awareness sessions. The role ensures context-adapted, safe, and responsive service delivery through assessments, referrals, and close coordination with protection teams and external service providers.Under the direct management of the Protection Manager and technical supervision of the MHPSS Specialist, the PSS Officer is responsible for implementing psychosocial support activities, including structured, serialized group sessions, individual PSS counseling, and awareness sessions. The role ensures context-adapted, safe, and responsive service delivery through assessments, referrals, and close coordination with protection teams and external service providers.

About the job:

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

PSS and Case Management:

• Plan, prepare, and deliver a series of structured group PSS sessions, one-off sessions to clients, in line with DRC SOPs and manuals, and under the technical supervision of the MHPSS Specialist. Ensure sessions are appropriate for different age, gender groups, and diversity profiles.
• Provides individual counseling for adults who have been referred for additional psychosocial support from group PSS sessions, case management, or other DRC activities or external agencies, with the aim to improve the social and emotional functioning of the participant and improve psychosocial wellbeing. 
• Prepare daily plans prior to every PSS session in line with the existing PSS curriculum; prepare appropriate materials in advance of the sessions.
• Conduct outreach to identify and engage potential participants and raise awareness among communities on the value and importance of PSS services, in coordination with the Protection Manager.
• Conduct PSS awareness sessions on identifying signs of distress, accessing available services, and other relevant psychosocial topics.
• Assess participants’ psychosocial needs and develop appropriate support plans within the scope of PSS services.
• Refer clients to specialized services or relevant institutions in line with established referral pathways, ensuring timely and appropriate support, and facilitate safe and confidential referrals, including relevant DRC departments.
• Provide regular follow-up to participants to ensure continuity of care and build safe, trust-based relationships.
• Contributes to regular reporting, program and proposal development, providing insight and analysis on PSS issues, challenges, gaps, and best practices.
• Attend and participate in supervision, coaching, and group meetings with the technical supervisor.
• Participate in internal and external trainings, and regular meetings, as requested by the line Manager.  
• Support the Protection manager to map service networks for referrals.
• Upload all the PSS activities in DRC trackers/ IM systems on a weekly basis in an accurate and timely manner.
• Support data collection for PSS assessments as required.
• Ensure all activities are implemented in line with DRC SOPs, protection principles, and confidentiality standards.
• Perform other duties, as required by the line manager, in order to support the protection program.

About you: 
To be successful in this role we expect that you possess the following:

Personal Specification

• 2 years of working experience with INGOs/NGOs in the same or similar roles (protection officer, PSS counselor, etc.).
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, proven self-initiative, and problem-solving abilities
• A commitment to protecting human rights
• Experience working at the community level and with groups is necessary
• Experience working with people from different backgrounds.

Education: (include certificates, licenses etc.)

• B. A degree in Psychology or a psychological counseling background preferred, or other relevant area. Master degree on mental health is preferred
•  Essential computer literacy (Microsoft Office Suite, email, etc)
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Willing to work extra hours and available on weekends for emergency cases
• Capacity to work under pressure
• Ability to set priorities and show initiative, to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Languages: (indicate fluency level)

• Fluency in Arabic [ESSENTIAL].
• Good knowledge of English is preferred, but not essential.

Key stakeholders: (internal and external) 

• Protection Manager
• MHPSS Specialist

In this position, you are expected to demonstrate DRC’ five core competencies:

1. Striving for excellence: You focus on reaching results while ensuring an efficient process.
2. Collaborating: You involve relevant parties and encourage feedback.
3. Taking the lead: You take ownership and initiative while aiming for innovation.
4. Communicating: You listen and speak effectively and honestly.
5. Demonstrating integrity: You act in line with DRC’s vision and values.

Application process

All applicants must upload a cover letter and an updated CV (no longer than four pages) in English. Applications sent by email will not be considered.

Location: Gaza Strip – Dair Al- Balah Closing date for applications: 21-07-2026

Note: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the vacancy may be closed once a suitable candidate is identified. Early applications are highly encouraged.

If you have questions or are facing problems with the online application process, please visit drc.ngo/jobsupport.

For further information about the Danish Refugee Council, please consult our website drc.ngo.

 

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