Food Security And Livelihood Assistant (Zahle)

ROLE PURPOSE: (this role is dependent on funding) Since the outbreak of violence in Syria in the spring of 2011, the number of Syrians crossing to Lebanon and Jordan has been increasing daily. The influx of Syrians has created labor competition, decreasing daily wages and reducing the number of days work each household is able to access. This has resulted in less purchasing power for both Syrians and Lebanese. Additionally, rent prices have increased and many food prices have increased as a result of border closures. The combination of decreased income and increased cost of essential expenditure is causing many households to engage in negative coping strategies, such as sending children to work, depleting assets and savings and taking debt. While delivering humanitarian assistance programs to address these needs, Save the Children is also focused on supporting the local economy. Border closures have interrupted the supply of Syrian goods, but alternative trade routes have been identified and Lebanese equivalents are available. As markets continue to function and traders struggle with decreased purchasing power in communities, Save the Children is using cash and vouchers as a mechanism for assistance.  In addition, Save the Children is developing a longer-term strategy, which includes supporting livelihoods. Cash-for-work, community support projects  and home based skills development projects  are all activities to be implemented in 2015. The FSL programme also includes livelihoods interventions, with a focus on youth, to enhance their skills and placement in local and international NGOs through a humanitarian traineeship programme. Save the Children adjusting its strategy in Food Security in Bekaa, and seeks FSL assistants to ensure smooth implementation of activities. This position is for one year contract and renewal dependent on funding.       KEY AREAS OF ACCOUNTABILITY:   Facilitate the implementation of the Food security and Livelihood programme (particularly cash based projects) under the supervision of the FSL Officer Contribute to the registration and verification of beneficiaries by collecting appropriate data Contribute to the monitoring and evaluation of activities by collecting appropriate data from selected beneficiaries, using pre-made ODK questionnaires using tablets. Conduct household interviews and focus group discussions to collect information, as needed Act as a liaison between communities and the Save the Children office; maintain good relationships with beneficiaries and local leaders/authorities; and report any identified issues to the FSL Officer Provide information and advice beneficiaries on existing FSL programmes, referring them to partners when required. Assist in preparing all needed materials for distribution such as : distribution/verification lists, Tape, cones, and crowd handling Assist in organizing the distribution center / site as well as the child friendly space. Conduct ATM card trainings and sensitization sessions for beneficiaries and other stakeholders Contribute to data entry, as needed Comply with Save the Children policies and practice with respect to child protection, code of conduct, health and safety, equal opportunities and other relevant policies and procedures.   SKILLS AND competencies (our Values in Practice)   Delivering results: Take personal responsibility and holds others accountable for delivering our ambitious goals for children continually improving their performance.   Applying technical and professional expertise: Applies the required technical and professional expertise to the highest standards; promotes and shares best practice within and outside the organization.   Working effectively with others:   Works collaboratively to achieve shared goals and thrives on diversity of people and perspectives; knows when to lead and when to follow and how to ensure effective cross – boundary working Communicate with impact:   Communicate clearly and confidently with others to engage and influence; promotes dialogue and ensures timely and appropriate messages , building confidence and trust.   QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE   Some university studies in Economics, Finance, International Relations, Development studies or similar field Motivated and willing to learn new skills and build new experience in Food Security and Livelihoods. Experience in field work and community mobilization Experience in conducting training and sensitization sessions for communities and beneficiaries Good in written and spoken Arabic and English Computer skills (especially Excel) Strength in interpersonal, communication and presentation skills Flexibility and willingness to change work practices and hours, and capability to work in insecure environment  Available to travel in country   Recommended knowledge and experience: Cash and voucher programming Food Security & Livelihoods in emergencies Familiarity with refugee communities in country of operation Familiarity with the Bekaa region