Inclusive Psychosocial Support Expert Ministry of Education and Science Kyiv NORCAP

NORCAP works to improve aid to better protect and empower people affected by crisis and climate change. We do this by providing expertise and solutions to humanitarian, development and peacebuilding partners, because we believe working together is the best way to reduce needs, risks and vulnerability over time. We seek and promote more effective ways of working at the global level and in the field. NORCAP’s aim is not only to reduce needs, but also to create choice and opportunity for vulnerable people. NORCAP works with and through our partners to improve aid in two complementary ways:

• We provide targeted expertise to strengthen our partners’ response.
• We collaborate with partners to develop solutions to un-met gaps and challenges.

Through its partnership with the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, NORCAP is supporting efforts to strengthen inclusive education systems and improve access to quality support services for children with special educational needs.

This role is central to NORCAP’s commitment to strengthening inclusive education and psychosocial support systems for children and families affected by crisis.

You will work with the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine is implementing the National Strategy for the Development of Inclusive Education to strengthen the national network of Inclusive Resource Centres. The establishment of a dedicated state institution will provide methodological, analytical and organisational support to the network, helping to improve the quality, consistency and sustainability of psychological and psychosocial services throughout Ukraine.

The Role

The Inclusive Psychosocial Support (PSS) Expert will provide scientific and methodological support to the establishment of a new state institution responsible for supporting the network of Inclusive Resource Centres. The role will focus on strengthening the psychological and psychosocial support components of inclusive education services through evidence-based methodologies, quality standards, practical tools and capacity-strengthening initiatives.

Success in this role will mean that Inclusive Resource Centres have stronger methodological foundations, improved professional support systems and enhanced capacity to provide trauma-informed, inclusive and high-quality services for children, families and education professionals.

The position is based in Kyiv, Ukraine and is offered on a fixed-term contract from August 2026 to July 2027, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability and performance. The role reports to Kateryna Pavlenko, Inclusive Education Manager at the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, and the NORCAP Education Thematic Manager.

As the Inclusive Psychosocial Support (PSS) Expert, you will take on the following responsibilities:

Role and responsibilities

• Lead analysis and synthesis of evidence, needs assessments and project learnings to strengthen the psychological and psychosocial support components of Inclusive Resource Centre services.
• Develop and refine methodological approaches for psychological and psychosocial support to children with special educational needs, their families and education professionals.
• Support the development of standards, quality criteria, supervision models and professional support mechanisms for psychologists and other Inclusive Resource Centre specialists.
• Develop practical tools and guidance materials, including methodological guidelines, referral pathways, case studies, checklists and cooperation protocols.
• Contribute to the design and delivery of training programmes, learning materials and professional development initiatives for Inclusive Resource Centre specialists.
• Promote the integration of evidence-based, trauma-informed and inclusive psychosocial support approaches within Inclusive Resource Centre services.
• Contribute to monitoring, evaluation and learning activities, including quality indicators, analytical reporting and recommendations for institutionalisation and scale-up.
• Collaborate closely with government stakeholders, project partners and NORCAP colleagues, including contributing to technical support, capacity exchange and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Please read full terms of reference for more information.

Qualifications and Experience

To excel in this role, candidates should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Advanced degree (Master’s degree or higher) in psychology, education, social work, public administration or a related field.
• Minimum five years of professional experience in a relevant field, including mental health, psychosocial support, inclusive education or safe educational environments.
• Demonstrated experience developing analytical, methodological, training, regulatory or organisational materials.
• Experience working with children with special educational needs and applying trauma-informed, inclusive and cross-sectoral approaches.
• Experience collaborating with government institutions, educational establishments, communities, postgraduate education institutions, Inclusive Resource Centres or school psychological services is highly desirable.

• Fluency in English and Ukrainian.

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   Please read the attached terms of reference for more details before applying.

Candidate Profile
This position is open to international and national candidates. Preference will be given to Ukrainian nationals. International candidates with extensive and proven regional professional experience, and a strong understanding of working with government counterparts and education systems in Ukraine or in similar regional contexts, are also encouraged to apply.

Competencies

• Adaptability and Problem-Solving:  Flexible, solutions-oriented, with strong negotiation skills.
• Organisational and Managerial Abilities: Strong planning, coordination, and time-management skills.
• Teamwork and Independence: Ability to work autonomously as well as collaboratively within a diverse, multi-sectoral team. Skilled in mentoring, guiding, and coaching individuals and teams.
• Resilience and Composure: Ability to remain calm under pressure when interacting with external counterparts and team members.
• Accountability and Compliance: Strong understanding of supervisory and reporting lines, ensuring adherence to institutional guidelines.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Proven ability to establish and maintain productive working relationships with government institutions, NGOs, and international organizations

What we offer

In recognition of your expertise and contributions, we provide the following benefits and opportunities:

• Rewarding work for a renowned global organisation
• Access to a network of humanitarian, peace, and development professionals
• A dedicated Staff Care Unit
• Membership in the Global Education Community of Practice
• Eligible for consideration for NORCAP membership and future assignments, subject to a successful performance review.

Our Values & Commitment

NORCAP is part of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC).

All NRC employees are expected to act in accordance with the organisation’s values. Being dedicated, innovative, inclusive, and accountable are behaviours and beliefs that guide how we work and how we build relationships. We are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, empowered, supported, and a genuine sense of belonging.

NORCAP values diversity, equity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. We believe that a diverse workforce strengthens our ability to respond effectively to the needs of people affected by crisis.

NRC has a zero-tolerance stance toward any form of exploitation or abuse, including sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (SEAH), and we do not tolerate inaction when concerns arise.

All offers are subject to reference and background checks conducted in line with our safeguarding standards, and NORCAP reserves the right to conduct a full background check on shortlisted candidates.

How to apply

• Based on what you have read so far, do you think you could be a good fit? If so, please follow these steps and apply!
• When submitting your application, kindly register in English your full employment history and education. Please include your full name as written in your passport. Uploaded CVs alone will not be reviewed.
• NORCAP reserves the right to conduct a full background check on shortlisted candidates.
• Approved Health Certificate will be required prior to contract commencement and assignment.
• Feedback will be given to all applicants within four weeks after the closing of this advertisement.
• Apply before 04 October 2026 , 23:59 PM.

We look forward to receiving your application