Referral Officer - Beirut - National Candidates Only

Background/IRC Summary:  Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (www.theIRC.org) is a world leader in relief, rehabilitation and post-conflict development services for those uprooted or affected by violent conflict and oppression. The IRC is currently working around the world, addressing immediate and life-saving needs of conflict affected people and the reconstruction needs of post-conflict societies.  The IRC has been working in Lebanon since 2012 to provide support to refugees and vulnerable host community members. 

The IRC is implementing protection programming all over Lebanon.  Protection and Rule of Law programming is aiming to continue its activities in Beirut and Mount Lebanon. Activities include provision of emergency cash assistance, legal services, referrals and protection monitoring of the affected Refugee families, individuals and host communities.

Job Overview/Summary: The Protection referral officer reports to Snr. Protection Manager -BML. He/She will be responsible for conducting referrals for Protection activities in BML. Disseminate up-to-date and accurate information on available services by sector and location, and to conduct referrals.

Major Responsibilities: Major responsibilities of Referral Officer (not exhaustive) are listed below:

• In charge of the IRC PRoL BML Hotline; receive phone calls from beneficiaries requesting information about services available and/or refer beneficiaries to relevant service providers through the standardized referral system. 
• Coordinate with the IRC Sectors in BML, mainly with BML Protection monitoring team, legal officer, Cash for Protection team, Feedback and Complaints team, Women Empowerment, Child Protection, Education, Economic Recovery and livelihoods development sectors.
• In coordination with the Snr Protection Manager, network with social welfare providers in order to map service networks for referral and update it on a quarterly basis.
• Identify, establish and support referral mechanisms for services in areas of operation.
• Make referrals to relevant service providers including the UNHCR through standardized referral system and conduct regular follow-up with service providers on referred cases.
• Report each referral into the adequate platforms to ensure comprehensive tracking of referrals.
• Conduct advocacy to local service providers regarding protection concerns in coordination with the Referral officer.
• Perform other duties, as needed or requested by the supervisor.  
• Provide trainings internally and externally to enhance the quality of referrals and provision of services to beneficiaries.
• Ensure good coordination with relevant team member to produce regular analysis of the referral provision.

Work Experience: 

• At least two years’ experience in an NGO, preferably in social work or community-based activities.
• Experience working for an international organization is preferred. 
• Good protection background and knowledge of refugee context, as well as demonstrated ability to identify and refer vulnerable cases, is desirable.
• Experience in regular report writing.

Demonstrated Skills and Competencies: 

• Ability to maintain confidentiality, respect, non-discrimination and safety of clients at all times.
• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills, creativity and flexibility.
• Ability to work autonomously, take initiative and responsibly escalate issues.
• Strong team spirit, comfortable in a multi-cultural environment.
• Flexibility in working overtime when needed and ability to handle pressure well.
• Good computer skills (Microsoft Word and Excel). 
• Fluency in English for business communication.

Education:  

• Bachelor/Degree in Social work, Counseling, Psychology or other related field.

Language Skills:  Arabic and English fluency required, ability to communicate and write clearly in English is a must.

Working Environment:  Located in  IRC Beirut HQ. The position will involve travel to the field (Beirut and Mount Lebanon) 80% and office work 20%.