State Project Officer, Disaster Management [Multiple Locations]

Role: State Project Officer, Disaster Management [Multiple Locations]
Locations: Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Kerala, West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu
Experience: 5-10 years 
Salary: Up to 12 LPA

Note: Mention which location you are applying in application notes. 

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About Role: 
Managing the disaster risk reduction team and carrying out disaster risk assessment and ensuring management with stakeholders

Role Overview:

The State Project Officer will play a key role in planning, implementing, and coordinating disaster risk reduction activities within the designated area. The role involves working closely with communities, local authorities, NGOs, CBOs, and other stakeholders to enhance disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response capabilities. The State Project Officer will be responsible for conducting risk assessments, developing and implementing disaster management plans, delivering training programs, and fostering partnerships to build resilient communities.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Planning and Preparedness:

• Develop, implement, and regularly update comprehensive contingency plans, including Disaster Risk Reduction and Disaster Mitigation Plans, in alignment with national and local frameworks.
• Ensure that plans are risk-informed, participatory, and address the specific vulnerabilities of the target communities.
• Establish early warning systems and protocols for effective and timely dissemination of information to at-risk populations.
• Coordinate the development and maintenance of emergency response resources, including equipment, supplies, and communication systems.
• Conduct regular drills and simulations to test the effectiveness of contingency plans and enhance the preparedness of stakeholders.

2. Capacity Building:

• Design and deliver capacity-building programs for NGOs, CBOs, youth groups, and other key stakeholders on disaster preparedness and disaster mitigation.
• Develop training materials and utilize participatory methodologies to ensure effective knowledge transfer and skill development.
• Provide technical assistance and mentorship to local organizations to strengthen their capacity to plan and implement disaster risk reduction initiatives.
• Facilitate the establishment of community-based disaster preparedness teams and support their ongoing development.

3. Disaster Risk Assessment:

• Conduct thorough disaster risk assessments, including Hazard Risk Vulnerability Assessments (HRVAs), in identified disaster hotspots.
• Collect and analyze data on hazards, vulnerabilities, and capacities to inform the development of risk reduction strategies.
• Identify and map disaster-prone areas and populations at risk, utilizing appropriate tools and technologies.
• Prepare detailed reports on risk assessment findings and recommendations for risk reduction measures.

4. Mitigation Planning:

• Develop and implement plans for reducing the damage caused by natural hazards such as floods, droughts, and cyclones.
• Identify and promote appropriate mitigation measures, including structural and non-structural interventions, to reduce the vulnerability of communities and infrastructure.
• Integrate disaster risk reduction considerations into development planning processes at the local level.
• Advocate for policies and regulations that support disaster risk reduction and promote resilient development.

5. Community Mobilization:

• Identify vulnerable locations and mobilize communities in high and very high climate-vulnerable districts for program intervention.
• Conduct community awareness campaigns to educate people about disaster risks and preparedness measures.
• Facilitate the participation of communities in the design, implementation, and monitoring of disaster risk reduction activities.
• Promote the establishment of community-based organizations and networks to support disaster risk reduction efforts.

6. Training Delivery:

• Design, organize, and conduct training programs for community members and stakeholders on various aspects of disaster preparedness and disaster mitigation.
• Adapt training content and delivery methods to the specific needs and contexts of different target groups.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of training programs and make recommendations for improvement.
• Maintain accurate records of training activities and participant outcomes.

7. Coordination and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Coordinate with grassroots and community stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for disaster preparedness and disaster mitigation.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with local authorities, government agencies, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Facilitate communication and information sharing among stakeholders to ensure coordinated and effective disaster response.
• Participate in relevant forums, meetings, and workshops to represent the organization and contribute to disaster risk reduction efforts.

8. Volunteer Capacity Building:

• Conduct capacity-building programs for selected individuals (volunteers) in various areas of Disaster Risk Reduction, such as first aid, search and rescue, and early warning systems.
• Provide ongoing support and mentorship to volunteers to enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Coordinate the mobilization and deployment of volunteers during disaster events.
• Recognize and support the contributions of volunteers to disaster risk reduction efforts.

9. Partnership Building:

• Build and maintain partnerships with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, CBOs, academic institutions, and the private sector, to enhance the effectiveness of disaster risk reduction programs.
• Collaborate with partners to leverage resources, share expertise, and implement joint initiatives.
• Represent the organization in relevant coordination mechanisms and networks.
• Identify opportunities for resource mobilization and proposal development to support disaster risk reduction activities.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Educational Qualifications:
  • Necessary: Graduation/Post Graduation in Climate Change, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or Disaster Management.

Other Requirements:

• Fair knowledge of developing community-based Disaster Risk Reduction/Mitigation plans.
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment.
• Exposure to community mobilization and social development linked to health and disaster preparedness programs.
• Experience in training and using participatory methodologies.
• Experience working in both emergency and developmental contexts.
• Experience in conducting baseline surveys and Hazard Risk Vulnerability Assessments (HRVAs) in disaster hotspots.
• Fluency in English, with strong report preparation and presentation skills.
• Experience in connecting communities and emergency support providers.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong understanding of disaster risk reduction principles, frameworks, and best practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including communities, government agencies, and NGOs.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and in challenging environments.
• Proficiency in using relevant software and tools for data analysis, mapping, and reporting.

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Hiring Note: Applications will be reviewed on rolling basis. This job is first posted on March 21 2025 on GroundZeroJobs.org

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