Jobs

CIVICUS is Hiring for a Research Officer (Home Based)

EugenMarch 6, 2025

4 minutes read

CIVICUS, a global alliance dedicated to strengthening civil society, is excited to announce a job opening for the position of EU SEE Research Officer within its Civic Space Research cluster. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to contribute to a project aimed at creating an enabling environment for civil society in Europe and Southeast Europe. With a competitive salary of $36,061 (excluding benefits) and a contract duration of 12 months (with the potential for renewal), this remote position promises to be both challenging and rewarding.

Clsoing date: Ongoing
Location: Global

Role Overview: Driving Change in Civic Spaces

The EU SEE Research Officer will be instrumental in supporting the EU SEE (EU System for an Enabling Environment for Civil Society) project. This involves not only the design and implementation of the SEE system but also managing relationships with various project partners, overseeing research outputs, and handling project administration tasks. Individuals in this role will have an opportunity to directly influence the development and implementation of vital frameworks that enhance civic space and empower civil society organizations.

Key Responsibilities: A Multidimensional Role

The responsibilities of the EU SEE Research Officer encompass a range of activities designed to support both research and project management. Below are the primary areas of focus:

Research

Support Design and Implementation: The Research Officer will assist in the formulation and execution of the SEE project, ensuring that all strategies align with the overarching goal of fostering an enabling environment for civil society.
Feedback and Review: Collaborating with consortium partners, the Researcher will review all EU SEE research products. This feedback process is essential for maintaining the quality and relevance of the research outputs.
Methodology Development: The position calls for contributions to the continuous enhancement of the EU SEE methodologies, including the development of an early warning mechanism to identify risks to civic space.
Collaborative Research Efforts: The Researcher will engage with allied teams and partners within the Civic Space Research (CSR) cluster, contributing to the design and implementation of other research initiatives as needed.

Managing Partner Relations

Partner Management: The Research Officer will support the relationships with project partners, offering research advice and facilitating effective communication between various stakeholders.
Collaboration with Consortium: Managing relationships with other researchers in the EU SEE consortium is vital for synergy, knowledge sharing, and developing a united front in addressing civic space challenges.
Active Participation in Secretariat: The Researcher will play a proactive role in the EU SEE Secretariat, ensuring that all members are aligned with project goals and activities.
Coordination with the CIVICUS Monitor Team: Ensuring regular communication and collaboration with the CIVICUS Monitor team and relevant partners is essential for harmonizing efforts and promoting knowledge exchange.

Project Administration

Administrative Support: The Research Officer will contribute to the administrative functions of the EU SEE project, which may include contracting processes, meeting organization, and monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) reporting.

Ideal Candidate Profile: Qualifications and Skills

The successful candidate for the EU SEE Research Officer position will possess the following qualifications and skills:

Education and Language Proficiency

Preferred Education: A Master’s degree in fields such as Economy, Sociology, International Relations, or Political Science is preferred.
Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is essential, and knowledge of additional languages including Spanish, French, or Arabic is considered a significant asset.

Essential Experience and Skills

Professional Experience: A minimum of three years of professional experience in civil society, particularly related to civic space issues and the enabling environment for civil society, is required.
Project Administration: At least two years of experience in managing large-scale projects and project administration, contributing to an understanding of project lifecycle and execution.
Technical Proficiency: High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, is necessary for data management and analysis.
Research and Analytical Abilities: Excellent research and analytical skills are critical, along with the ability to synthesize complex information and identify trends.
Writing Skills: Exceptional report writing and documentation skills in English are required for effective communication and dissemination of findings.
Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills are essential for effective collaboration within a diverse, virtual team and consortium environment.
Organizational Skills: Candidates must demonstrate a high degree of organization and the ability to work independently in a remote setting.

Desirable Skills

Multilingual Capabilities: Knowledge of additional languages would enhance a candidate’s profile and ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
Travel Readiness: A willingness to travel as needed to engage with partners and stakeholders around the globe may be beneficial.

Application Process

CIVICUS invites interested candidates to apply for this unique opportunity. The deadline for applications is March 13, 2025, at 11:59 PM SAST. As this role is instrumental in shaping the civic space landscape, interested individuals are encouraged to submit their applications promptly.

For those passionate about civil society and eager to contribute to meaningful change, the EU SEE Research Officer position represents an exciting career opportunity offering remote work flexibility while making a significant impact in fostering civic spaces. Don’t miss the chance to be part of an organization that champions the rights to association, assembly, and expression for all.