Program Officer Job Vacancy in Woliso, Ethiopia – Humanitarian Aid

July 20, 2026
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Job Description

Position: Program Officer

Company: UNHCR Ethiopia

Location: Woliso, Ethiopia

Experience: 3-5 years in program management or humanitarian assistance

Education: Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Development Studies, Social Sciences or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Humanitarian Aid

Department: Program Management

Salary: 30,000 – 45,000 SSP per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, is the global leader in protecting and assisting refugees, asylum‑seekers, internally displaced persons and stateless individuals. In Ethiopia, UNHCR works closely with the government, local NGOs and community leaders to provide life‑saving assistance, promote durable solutions and advocate for the rights of displaced populations. With field offices in Addis Ababa and regional hubs, UNHCR Ethiopia supports over 800,000 refugees and hosts a diverse workforce committed to humanitarian excellence. The organization offers a dynamic, multicultural environment where staff can develop expertise in emergency response, protection, and development programming while contributing to a mission that saves lives and restores dignity.

Job Overview

The Program Officer will support the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of livelihood and protection programmes for refugee communities in the Woliso region. This role collaborates with partners, ensures compliance with UNHCR policies, and contributes to strategic planning that aligns with both humanitarian standards and local development priorities. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in translating strategic objectives into concrete activities that improve the well‑being of vulnerable populations. For more information about UNHCR’s work in Ethiopia, visit the official portal.

https://ethiopiajobssearch.com

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement livelihood projects that enhance income‑generating opportunities for refugee households.
  • Coordinate with government agencies, NGOs and community groups to ensure integrated service delivery.
  • Monitor programme performance using quantitative and qualitative indicators, preparing regular reports for senior management.
  • Conduct field assessments, needs analyses and feasibility studies to inform programme design.
  • Manage budgets, procurement processes and financial reporting in line with UNHCR financial guidelines.
  • Provide technical support and capacity‑building to implementing partners and local staff.
  • Ensure compliance with protection standards, safeguarding vulnerable groups, especially women, children and persons with disabilities.
  • Contribute to emergency response planning and rapid‑deployment activities when crises arise.

Required Skills

  • Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a focus on results‑oriented programming.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement skills, both written and verbal.
  • Proficiency in project management tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Ability to work in multicultural teams and adapt to challenging field environments.
  • Fluency in English; knowledge of Amharic or Afaan Oromo is highly desirable.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Economics, or a related discipline is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in humanitarian assistance, project management or protection are considered an asset.

Experience

Candidates must have a minimum of three to five years of professional experience in programme design, implementation or monitoring within humanitarian or development contexts. Experience working with refugee populations, NGOs, or UN agencies in Ethiopia or the Horn of Africa region is strongly preferred.

Salary

The position offers a competitive salary range of 30,000 to 45,000 SSP per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Salary is paid in local currency and includes statutory benefits as per Ethiopian labour law.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental and vision.
  • Retirement savings scheme aligned with UNHCR staff welfare policies.
  • Paid annual leave, sick leave and humanitarian leave.
  • Opportunities for international assignments and secondments.
  • Professional development allowances for training and certifications.

Training

  • Induction programme covering UNHCR policies, protection standards and security protocols.
  • Ongoing capacity‑building workshops on livelihood programming, gender‑based violence prevention and monitoring & evaluation.
  • Access to UNHCR’s global learning platform for continuous skill enhancement.

Working Environment

The role is based in Woliso, a growing town that serves as a hub for refugee settlements and host‑community initiatives. The office provides a safe, collaborative space equipped with modern IT infrastructure. Field visits are an integral part of the job, requiring travel to remote sites under varying conditions. UNHCR promotes a supportive culture that values diversity, inclusion and the well‑being of its staff.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the UNHCR careers portal, attaching a tailored CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For additional career resources and regional job listings, please visit the partner site.

https://www.tunisiajobsearch.com/

Equal Opportunity Statement

UNHCR Ethiopia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.