Social Safeguard Assistant

About the role

The Social Safeguard Assistant will provide practical field and administrative support to the Social Safeguards Manager across WCS programme areas in and around Cross River National Park, Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary and the Mbe Mountains. The role involves implementing safeguarding measures, engaging communities, operating the Grievance Redress Mechanism and supporting gender equality and social inclusion initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Support the Social Safeguards Manager in applying WCS safeguarding policies and mitigation measures.
• Participate in field visits, screening and monitoring to identify risks and implementation gaps.
• Record findings, actions, responsible persons and timelines; maintain accurate safeguards files.
• Escalate safeguarding incidents and urgent concerns promptly.
• Facilitate non‑discriminatory community relationships, stakeholder consultations and sensitisation activities.
• Promote participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities and minority groups.
• Assist with the confidential implementation of the Grievance Redress Mechanism.
• Monitor and report emerging concerns, tensions or conflicts affecting communities or programmes.
• Coordinate logistics for consultations, training and field visits.
• Track cases, actions and response timelines and support follow‑up.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree or Higher National Diploma in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Community Development, Sociology, Anthropology, Gender Studies, Human Rights, Environmental or Social Management, Rural Development or related field.
• Relevant training in safeguarding, community engagement, gender, conflict management or GRM is an advantage.
• Experience in community engagement, development, conservation or social work through employment, internship or volunteering.
• Experience supporting community meetings, consultations, awareness activities or field data collection.
• Ability to work respectfully with diverse ethnic and cultural groups, including people with disabilities.

Required skills

• Good communication, listening and interpersonal skills.
• Basic understanding of safeguarding, human rights, gender equality, social inclusion and GRM principles.
• Ability to collect basic field data and maintain clear records.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Ability to handle confidential information and maintain professional boundaries.