Z.M.K. & Co. invites applications from qualified and motivated candidates for the position of Child Protection Officer (NOA) – Risk Prevention and Community Engagement for a UNICEF-supported programme in Punjab. The position will support the implementation of child protection interventions focused on risk prevention, community engagement, child safeguarding, and strengthening protective systems for children and adolescents.

Purpose of the Position

The Child Protection Officer will provide technical, operational, and coordination support for the implementation of child protection prevention initiatives under the 2026–2027 Multi-Year Work Plan (MYWP). The role will contribute to strengthening community-based child protection mechanisms, promoting child and adolescent engagement, supporting coordination at district level, and assisting in programme monitoring, reporting, and emergency response activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Support implementation of child protection prevention strategies addressing child marriage, harmful social norms, child online protection, and MHPSS.
• Assist in strengthening community-based child protection structures and referral pathways.
• Support implementation of prevention, life skills, and parenting frameworks and related action plans.
• Coordinate with district stakeholders and partners for effective programme implementation.
• Support programme integration with Health, Education, Nutrition, WASH, Gender, SBC, and related sectors.
• Contribute to Child Protection in Emergencies (CPIE) response activities and reporting.
• Participate in monitoring, evaluations, progress reviews, and donor reporting processes.
• Maintain coordination with government departments, partners, and stakeholders.
• Support capacity-building initiatives for children, adolescents, and relevant stakeholders.
• Promote innovative approaches and good practices in programme delivery.

Eligibility Criteria

Education

• Advanced University Degree in International Development, Human Rights, Psychology, Sociology, International Law, or any other relevant social science field 
• Bachelor’s degree in International Development, Human Rights, Psychology, Sociology, International Law, or any other relevant social science field with 2 years of relevant experience.

Experience

• Minimum 2 years of relevant professional experience in child protection, social development, programme implementation, or related areas.
• Experience in humanitarian and development settings will be considered an advantage.
• Experience in community engagement and child protection risk prevention programmes, particularly within the UN system, will be an asset.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong coordination, facilitation, analytical, and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications.
• Understanding of child safeguarding principles and ethical data management.
• Excellent communication skills in Urdu and English; knowledge of Punjabi will be an added advantage.