Social Services Officer at PDO Incorporated

A leading infrastructure development consortium delivering large-scale, lender-aligned projects seeks to engage a Social Safeguard Specialist on a consultancy retainer basis to support ongoing compliance and community risk management functions.

This role is Lagos-based (on-site engagement required a few days per week). Relocation support may be considered for an exceptional candidate.

Role Overview

• The Specialist will support the Community Relations Management (CRM) structure, working closely with community interface teams to ensure alignment with international social safeguard standards, particularly in IFC and World Bank–funded or benchmarked environments.
• The assignment requires practical field competence, structured documentation discipline, and a strong grasp of international lender compliance frameworks.

Key Responsibilities

• Support implementation and monitoring of Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs) and Livelihood Restoration Programs (LRPs).
• Strengthen stakeholder engagement systems in line with IFC Performance Standards and/or World Bank ESF.
• Provide technical oversight to Grievance Redress Mechanisms (GRM) and community feedback systems.
• Conduct periodic social risk audits and compliance gap assessments.
• Support lender-aligned monitoring, documentation, and reporting requirements.
• Advise on community conflict mitigation strategies and field-level mediation approaches.
• Build capacity of community interface teams (CRM, CLO, CAA structures) through structured guidance and compliance checklists.
• Maintain high-quality documentation suitable for external audits and lender review.

Candidate Profile

• 2–5 years demonstrable experience in social safeguards, preferably within infrastructure, transport, energy, or coastal development projects.
• Direct exposure to IFC Performance Standards and/or World Bank Environmental & Social Framework (ESF) implementation.
• Experience working on RAP implementation, stakeholder engagement planning, and grievance systems.
• Strong report writing and compliance documentation skills.
• Demonstrated field experience managing sensitive community environments.
• Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Environmental Management, Law, or related discipline (Master’s degree is an advantage).
• High ethical standards and discretion.

Engagement Structure

• Consultancy (retainer-based)
• Lagos-based, physical presence required several days per week
• Relocation support available for the right candidate
• Monthly remuneration: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 (commensurate with experience)