Z.M.K. & Co. invites applications from qualified and motivated candidates for the position of Child Protection Officer (NOA) under the Child Friendly Communities Initiative (Masali Gaon) for a UNICEF-supported programme in Punjab. The position will support child protection system strengthening, community engagement, and implementation of child protection interventions aimed at preventing child marriage, child labour, violence, abuse, and improving birth registration coverage in targeted communities.

Purpose of the Position

The Child Protection Officer will provide operational, technical, and coordination support for the implementation of child protection interventions under the Child Friendly Communities Initiative (CFCI/Masali Gaon). The role will contribute to strengthening child protection systems, improving interdepartmental coordination, supporting community-based protection mechanisms, enhancing data management and reporting systems, and assisting capacity-building initiatives with government entities and community structures.

Key Responsibilities

• Support implementation of child protection activities under the Child Friendly Communities Initiative (CFCI) in targeted villages.
• Assist in formation and strengthening of Child Protection Committees (CPCs) and community-based protection mechanisms.
• Facilitate community mobilization and awareness sessions on child protection risks and birth registration.
• Support coordination among government departments, NGOs, and community stakeholders for integrated child protection programming.
• Promote initiatives to prevent child marriage, child labour, and improve birth registration coverage.
• Support operationalization and strengthening of the Case Management and Referral System (CMRS) and Child Protection Information Management System (CP-IMS).
• Assist in organizing coordination meetings, training sessions, and capacity-building initiatives.
• Support collection, analysis, and reporting of child protection data and programme activities.
• Ensure compliance with child safeguarding, PSEA standards, confidentiality, and ethical data management practices.
• Prepare programme documentation, briefs, presentations, and reports.

Eligibility Criteria

Education

• Advanced University Degree in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Development Studies, or a related field with 2 years of relevant work experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Development Studies, or a related field with 2 years of relevant work experience

Experience

• Minimum 2 years of relevant professional experience with INGOs, NGOs, UN agencies, or development sector organizations in child protection, social services, or community development.
• Experience in child protection system strengthening, case management, referral systems, or community-based programming will be considered an advantage.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong facilitation, coordination, communication, and reporting skills.
• Strong analytical, data management, and information management skills.
• Knowledge of child safeguarding principles, case management systems, and minimum protection standards.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications.
• Fluency in English and Urdu is required; knowledge of Punjabi will be an added advantage.