The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is seeking qualified and passionate individuals to fill the position of Human Rights Officer – Monitoring at their provincial office. This position is vital in increasing the visibility and impact of the Commission’s work in promoting and protecting human rights within South Africa. If you have a strong understanding of human rights law, exceptional communication skills, and a commitment to making a difference, this opportunity could be the ideal role for you.
Human Rights Officer Job Overview
- Title: Human Rights Officer – Monitoring
- Component: Operations
- Location: Provincial Office
- Reports To: Advocacy and Research Officer / Senior Legal Officer
- Salary: Competitive, based on qualifications and experience
- Contract Type and Duration: 6-7 months contract
Purpose of the Human Rights Officer Role
The Human Rights Officer – Monitoring will play a critical role in ensuring the Commission’s presence and effectiveness by monitoring and reporting on the observance of human rights across various communities in the province. The goal is to strengthen advocacy, enhance visibility, and ensure compliance with human rights laws and standards.
Organizational Structure
The role is embedded within the provincial office team and reports to senior legal and advocacy officers. It involves collaboration with stakeholders, community leaders, and other Commission representatives.
Organizational Hierarchy:
- Provincial Manager
- Human Rights Monitor
- Advocacy and Research Officer
- Human Rights Officer
- Senior Legal Officer
- Legal Officer
- Intake Officer
- Admin Officer
- Admin Assistant
Key Responsibilities
The Human Rights Officer will be accountable for various responsibilities across four main areas: monitoring and research, increasing visibility, legal support, and general administration.
1. Monitoring and Research
- Conduct monitoring activities in communities, schools, healthcare facilities, detention centers, and other identified areas.
- Coordinate monitoring efforts with stakeholders and provincial office teams.
- Complete and submit monitoring tools and prepare reports for review.
- Provide written and oral updates to the Provincial Manager.
2. Increase Visibility and Accessibility
- Support advocacy campaigns, outreach clinics, and community-based initiatives.
- Maintain relationships with key community stakeholders, including local organizations, authorities, and leaders.
- Distribute promotional material to promote awareness of human rights issues.
3. Complaints and Legal Support
- Record and submit complaints identified during monitoring to the provincial office.
- Maintain a database of complaints for effective tracking and resolution.
4. General Support
- Attend training, meetings, and capacity-building sessions as directed.
- Comply with SAHRC policies and standards, contributing to the Commission’s overall mission.
- Travel within the province, including outside of standard working hours when necessary.
Key Competencies
To excel in this role, the ideal candidate must demonstrate the following skills and attributes:
- Problem Solving: Analytical and proactive in identifying human rights issues.
- Communication: Advanced writing skills, excellent interpersonal communication, and a collaborative approach.
- Time Management: Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently and meet deadlines.
- Technology Proficiency: Competence in using standard office software and reporting tools.
- Adaptability: Willingness to work in challenging situations and outside ordinary working hours.
Educational Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree in Law, Social Sciences, or Development Studies.
- Knowledge of South African human rights legislation, policies, and customary law.
- Basic project management and research skills.
Work Experience
- At least 1-3 years of experience in fieldwork or related activities.
- Familiarity with socio-economic rights, rural dynamics, and stakeholder engagement.
- Must have a valid, unendorsed driver’s license and be willing to travel extensively within the province.
Advisory Responsibilities
The Human Rights Officer will interact with both internal and external stakeholders, providing advice and guidance based on monitoring outcomes.
- Internal: Analytical reports and recommendations for the Provincial Manager and team.
- External: Human rights awareness content tailored for community members and local organizations.
Inherent Job Requirements
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to self-regulate.
- Fluency in the province’s dominant language.
- Flexibility to work in high-risk environments, observing safety precautions.
- Integrity, respect, and customer-focused approach.
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Why Join the SAHRC?
Working with the South African Human Rights Commission provides a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the promotion and protection of human rights across the country. Your efforts will directly impact communities, ensuring justice, equality, and dignity for all.
How to Apply
Kindly submit a one-page cover letter, ID copy and your CV to recruitment@sahrc.org.za by 15h00 Friday 6th December 2024. Please note that candidates may be required to undergo competency assessments and subject themselves to security clearance procedures. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. Name of the position and the Province or Unit must be included in the subject line.
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The Human Rights Officer – Monitoring position at the South African Human Rights Commission is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on communities by promoting and protecting human rights. This role is ideal for individuals with a strong passion for justice, advocacy, and community development. By joining the SAHRC, you become part of a mission-driven team dedicated to ensuring dignity, equality, and fairness for all South Africans.
