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.
Contingent on an invitation and accreditation by the Zimbabwe Election Commission, the Carter Center is preparing to deploy an international election observation mission to Zimbabwe for the harmonized elections anticipated in August 2023. The Carter Center is seeking a highly qualified individual to serve as Observer Coordinator for this mission. Relocation to Zimbabwe for a period of at least three months is required, and the coordinator may travel within the country as needed.
This consultancy position is tentatively scheduled from June 15, 2023, and pending electoral developments will continue through approximately Sept. 15, 2023; applicants must confirm their availability for deployment for the duration of the project.
Responsibilities:
- Working under the direction of the Chief of Party and Project Director, support the training of observer teams during orientations and briefing sessions regarding observation methodology, code of conduct, policies/procedures, & other areas.
- In coordination with the Security Expert, strategize and devise LTO and STO observer deployment plans and manage observation activities and methodology, making sure that observers abide by the security standards established by the mission and the Center.
- Supervise fieldwork of long-term observers (LTOs); maintain regular contact with all teams and act as the mission’s main point of contact for the LTOs.
- Coordinate the timely production, analysis, and compilation of observer field reports, including, but not limited to, weekly reports, incident reports, and rally reports, among others.
- Ensure appropriate liaison between observers with election officials, international NGOs, international organizations, and government officials.
- Represent The Carter Center in Zimbabwe to key stakeholders as it relates to observer deployment and methodology.
- Assist in drafting Carter Center press releases, public statements, and project reports as necessary in consultation with Atlanta staff and assist in drafting and editing the final report, in consultation with Atlanta staff and the Chief of Party.
Qualifications:
- Applicants should have at least 5 years of experience as a core team member, implementing election monitoring missions, in human rights, political analysis, or democracy and governance programs, ideally in Zimbabwe or the region.
- Demonstrated experience and/or knowledge of the Carter Center’s observation methodology, including international and regional standards for democratic elections.
- Leadership skills and cross-cultural understanding are required for all positions.
- Strong knowledge of the political context and electoral environment in Zimbabwe.
- Strong English writing and communication skills, and competence with computer applications are required.
Financial Compensation:
A daily rate for this position is determined by an internal committee at the Center taking into account each individual’s years and scope of experience and historical rates for similar positions in past missions with the Center.
Application Submission:
To be considered for this position, provide your application details, and upload a CV/resume and cover letter in support of your application on the following website:https://airtable.com/shrE5mZDodsXZOSqA
Only applications received through this link will be considered.
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. Deadline for submissions: May 19, 2023. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position filled as soon as possible.
Note: Because this is an international election observation mission, Zimbabwe nationals are not eligible to serve as Observer Coordinators. Due to the large volume of applicants, only candidates selected for an interview or additional consideration will be notified.