Nairobi, Kenya, with potential for regional travel
The Carter Center is guided by a fundamental commitment to human rights and the alleviation of human suffering; it seeks to prevent and resolve conflicts, enhance freedom and democracy, and improve health.
With over three decades of working in Sudan and a broad network of relationships across its 18 states, the Carter Center is monitoring the country’s ongoing conflict and transition processes in support of long-term peace prospects. The Center is planning to deploy a remote international observation mission that will monitor developments in Sudan and preparations for a post-conflict political transition. Experts will additionally provide mentorship and technical assistance to citizen observers in Sudan. The mission will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, with a potential relocation to Sudan pending political and security developments.
The Carter Center is seeking a highly qualified candidate to serve as an Observer Coordinator on its international observer mission. The position is expected to be deployed in June 2024, with the possibility of an extension through August 2025. Applicants must confirm their availability for deployment for the project’s full duration.
The Observer Coordinator will oversee the deployment of long-term observers (LTOs) to monitor the ongoing conflict and political developments in Sudan. They will also support the training of observers, develop observer deployment plans in line with security standards, and act as the observation teams’ primary point of contact on the mission, supervising fieldwork and the timely production, analysis, and compilation of observer field reports. They will represent the Carter Center to key regional stakeholders concerning observation methodology, liaising with international NGOs, organizations, and government officials. The Observer Coordinator will assist in drafting Carter Center statements and reports as appropriate.
Desired Qualifications and Experience
Applicants for the position should have:
- At least five years of experience as a core team member or observer on election monitoring missions. Experience in Sudan or the broader MENA region is preferred;
- Demonstrated experience and/or knowledge of the Carter Center’s observation methodology, including international and regional standards for democratic elections, constitution-making, and political participation;
- Demonstrated experience in managing and supporting remote personnel, operations, and logistics; a high degree of organization and ability to manage diverse tasks in parallel;
- Ideal candidates will have experience working in a conflict- or post-conflict environment and/or the Horn of Africa, as well as solid knowledge of the Sudanese political context;
- A bachelor’s degree in political science, international relations, or a similar field;
- Leadership skills, personnel management experience, and cross-cultural understanding are essential. A high degree of adaptability to a changing environment and programmatic activities;
- Strong English writing and communication skills are necessary, including computer application competency;
- Fluency in English is required; Arabic is highly desirable.
To be considered for this position, provide your application details and upload a CV/resume and cover letter in support of your application to the following website: Sudan IO (filerequestpro.com)
Only applications received through this link will be considered.
Given the international nature of this observer project, Sudanese nationals are not eligible for this role. Due to the large volume of applicants, only those candidates selected for an interview or additional consideration will be notified by the Center. No phone calls, please.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The deadline to apply is currently scheduled for April 24, 2024.