Project Officer-Legal at Refugee Consortium of Kenya

JOB PURPOSE: 

• To provide legal assistance to the target population in Dadaab and Garissa, advocacy initiatives with state actors in both levels of government and provide procedural support to the organization on issues relating to and affecting displaced persons as well as administrative legal matters in an effective and efficient manner.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Attend to clients at the legal aid clinic and provide legal assistance on livelihoods-based initiatives.
• Advocate with state actors on policy and legislation that promote socioeconomic inclusion of forcibly displaced and hosting communities
• Prepare legal briefs and studies on a variety of legal issues and instruments.
• Prepare responses to enquiries on legal issues on laws relating to refugees and other forced migrants from RCK staff, governments, inter-governmental organizations, institutions, and the public.
• Participate in capacity strengthening of RCK’s stakeholders in relation to domestic and international laws that relate to refugees and other forced migrants.
• Develop and maintain a database of and relations with internal /external referral partners.
• Update and manage the client databases for internal and external use.
• Prepare monthly reports and donor related reports within schedule.
• Support the development of proposal for fundraising for program work.
• Assist in coordination and carry out program budgetary and administrative tasks.
• Such other duties temporarily or on a continuing basis, as may reasonably be required, commensurate with your grade.
• Legal research and writing
• Following up on procurement processes.
• Development of activity work plans and accounting for activities implemented.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelors degree in Law
• Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with a current practicing certificate.
• At least two-year experience in civil and criminal litigation.
• Experience working with an NGO/Humanitarian field is an added advantage.
• Knowledge of the Kenyan Legal system and of regional & international instruments on refugees and human rights.

WORKING CONDITIONS: The work is based in Dadaab and Garissa. The job requires willingness to work a flexible schedule and travel.

Behavioral Competencies:

• Professionalism: In-depth theoretical knowledge of and significant experience in relevant fields of counseling, Strong analytical, problem solving and drafting skills. Discretion and sound judgment in applying legal expertise to sensitive, complex legal issues.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication (written, spoken and presentational) skills. Proficiency in English and Kiswahili.
• Technology Awareness: Fully proficient computer skills and ability to use relevant software applications, in particular information databases, internet/intranet services, library sources, etc.
• Teamwork: Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people of different national and cultural backgrounds with respect for diversity.
• Managing Performance: Ability to supervise, coach, mentor and develop junior staff as required.