Protection Specialist (MHPSS)

Who are we?

In 2003, DRC became one of the first organisations to provide humanitarian assistance in the country. Today, DRC continues to provide humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable displacement-affected families, including IDPs, returnees, and host communities in Basra, Baqubah, Jalawla, Gatoon, Baghdad, Muqdadiya, Balad, Aziz Balad, Duhok, Tel Afar, Baa’j, Sinjar, and Erbil.

Find more about DRC operations in Iraq here:  Iraq | DRC Danish Refugee Council

Danish Refugee Council, one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, is currently looking for a highly qualified Protection Specialist (MHPSS) in Erbil.

The overall purpose of the role:

Under the direct supervision of the Head of Programme and the technical supervision of the Protection Coordinator, the Protection Specialist (MHPSS) will be responsible for implementation of DRC’s MHPSS program in DRC’s areas of operation and provide technical guidance to ensure that DRC delivers high-quality, evidence-based, and culturally appropriate MHPSS services. The role strengthens the integration of MHPSS within case management and referral pathways, while contributing to programme development, staff supervision, coordination, and quality assurance.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure all MHPSS interventions adhere to IASC guidelines, DRC global standards, and Iraq specific best practices.
• Provide technical oversight for MHPSS components within protection case management.
• Develop and update tools, SOPs, guidelines, and training materials for structured and non-structured MHPSS activities.
• Conduct assessments to identify emerging psychosocial needs and adapt programming accordingly.
• Build the capacity of protection staff on Psychological First Aid (PFA), basic counselling skills, stress management, structured MHPSS interventions, and safe referrals.
• Provide regular technical supervision and mentorship to case workers, and MHPSS focal points.
• Organize refresher trainings on self care, do-no-harm, trauma-informed approaches, and managing complex cases.
• Strengthen staff understanding of specialized vs non-specialized MHPSS services.
• Develop MHPSS monitoring tools, indicators, and quality benchmarks.
• Support MEAL teams to ensure MHPSS indicators are measured and reported accurately.
• Conduct regular field visits to monitor activities and provide technical feedback.
• Strengthen referral pathways with external specialized service providers.
• Support in donor reporting and proposal development with MHPSS technical inputs and Identify strategic opportunities to expand MHPSS programming within Iraq.
• Undertake other relevant tasks as requested by line manager.

Experience and technical competencies:

• Minimum 5 years of practical experience in protection working for an INGO, with at least 5 years practical experience (MHPSS programming) in humanitarian or development settings.
• Proven experience delivering structured MHPSS interventions and supervising frontline staff and strong experience in protection case management and Violence against women and men.
• Familiarity with international human rights, international humanitarian law, refugee law, and regulatory frameworks for internal displacement, as well as Protection Analytical Framework, and Protection Information Management principles.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and ability to coordinate constructively and respectfully among people from varied backgrounds
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Excel, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint).
• Excellent organizational skills, ability to prioritize, and attention to detail.

Education: (include certificates, licenses, etc.)

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology or social work is required

Languages: (indicate fluency level)

• Fluency in Arabic and English (written and spoken).

In this position, you are expected to demonstrate DRC’s 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: Upholding and promoting the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in relation to DRC’s values and Code of Conduct, including safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment.
    

We offer

• Contract length:  This position is subject to fund
• Position Band:  G (Non-Management)
• Suggested start date: 2 January 2026
• Duty station: Erbil (with 60% travel to field)
• Salary and conditions will be in accordance with Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for Nationals.

Application process

Interested to apply? 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.

Closing date for applications:  30 November 2025

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