Protection Assistant – Psychosocial Support (PSS)

About the role

The Danish Refugee Council is seeking a Protection Assistant specialized in Psychosocial Support (PSS) to join its team in Dabat, Ethiopia. Under the technical supervision of the Protection Team Leader, you will help deliver community‑based and individual psychosocial activities that promote safety, dignity and resilience among vulnerable populations.

Key responsibilities

• Support the delivery of structured and non‑structured PSS activities for children, adolescents, women, men and caregivers.
• Facilitate group sessions such as life‑skills workshops, peer support groups, child‑friendly space activities and community‑based PSS sessions.
• Provide basic individual psychosocial support in line with PSS principles and conduct awareness sessions on stress management, coping mechanisms and positive parenting.
• Organise community dialogues, psycho‑education sessions and capacity‑building trainings for local leaders on Psychological First Aid and basic psychosocial support.
• Identify individuals showing signs of distress, deliver Psychological First Aid and refer them to specialised MHPSS services while maintaining confidentiality.
• Collaborate with community leaders, volunteers and local authorities to ensure inclusive and effective PSS interventions.

Required profile

• Relevant experience or education in psychosocial support, protection, social work, psychology or a related humanitarian field.
• Demonstrated ability to work with diverse groups, including children, persons with disabilities and survivors of violence.
• Strong commitment to humanitarian principles, survivor‑centred approaches and confidentiality.
• Ability to work in a challenging field environment and adapt to evolving community needs.

Required skills

• Knowledge of basic psychosocial support principles and Psychological First Aid (PFA).
• Experience facilitating group activities and delivering community sensitisation sessions.
• Competence in case identification, documentation and referral processes.