Aid work and Humanitarian Assistance

Role:

Aid workers typically operate in front line conditions, facilitating the effective distribution of humanitarian aid to people who have been hit by human or natural disasters. Humanitarian work is similar, but often involves assistance in troubled regions long after the event or events that caused the disaster, be it a natural disaster or a conflict. Responsibilities of these jobs vary considerably according to the nature of the emergency or situation, but can include:

rapidly assessing emergency situations; working closely with staff located within the area or other emergency departments
coordinating and supporting the work of volunteers
managing budgets and producing funding proposals
;managing the implementation of emergency activities and monitoring their effectiveness
producing response reports, recommendations and proposals for emergency intervention
developing and monitoring objectives
liaising with United Nations agencies, government officials and colleagues
recruiting/managing local staff
organising induction, support and training for volunteers/other aid workers
implementing, overseeing and ensuring strict adherence with security/safety procedures
ensuring knowledge of and compliance with appropriate national and international procedures, policies and regulatory codes

Source: TargetJobs

Skills Required:

Enthusiasm and commitment
Networking skills
Communication skills, in both English and local languages
Sensitivity and awareness for different cultural beliefs and practices
Analytical skills
Ability to plan well
Computer literacy
Tact, discretion and diplomacy
Teamworking skills

Things to Consider:

Strong competition for a small number of opportunities can make relevant work experience and knowledge more important than the specific academic qualification, with many different degrees welcomed. Voluntary emergency and development work experience is beneficial when applying.

There is often risk attached to work in aid and humanitarian assistance if such assistance is needed in a conflict zone or after a natural disaster. Care must always be taken when working in unfamiliar areas. Before starting work in some areas an understanding of local customs in essential, as is organising any relevant jabs long before you leave.

It it also worth considering how opportunities at the University of Southampton can be beneficial. Career Destinations offer useful guidance on volunteering and there are opportunities within various societies to gain experience. Links are provided below.