Economic Recovery Specialist – Employment & Labour Market Engagement

About the role

The Economic Recovery Specialist will lead the implementation of the economic recovery component of the Mixed Migration Programme in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. Focusing on employment pathways, market‑oriented apprenticeships and labour‑market integration, the role supports migrants, returnees, transit populations and at‑risk youth to access decent work and income‑generating opportunities.

Key responsibilities

• Analyse high‑demand sectors, occupations and skills gaps to inform employment strategies.
• Design market‑oriented employment and apprenticeship pathways that align with labour‑market demand and participant profiles.
• Build and manage strategic partnerships with employers, industry associations and business networks.
• Identify systemic barriers to recruitment, retention and advancement and develop practical responses with market actors.
• Facilitate linkages between participants and employers, ensuring appropriate profiling, skills recognition and placement.
• Collaborate with Economic Recovery Officers, Labour Mobility & Skills Recognition Officer, Protection, MEAL and Programme Management to ensure coherent programme delivery.

Required profile

• Relevant academic background in economics, labour market analysis, development studies or a related field.
• Proven experience designing and implementing employment‑oriented programmes in humanitarian or development contexts.
• Strong understanding of market systems development and protection‑sensitive approaches.
• Excellent analytical, coordination and stakeholder‑engagement skills.

Required skills