Technical Mental Health Psychosocial Support Expert / Ministry of Education Kyiv

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.

This role supports NORCAP’s commitment to strengthening mental health and safe learning environments in crisis-affected settings through partnership with national education systems.

You will work with the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, supporting an innovative national project to reform psychological services in general secondary education. The project focuses on integrating mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) into schools, building professional capacity, and developing scalable models for nationwide implementation, particularly in the context of the ongoing war and its impact on children, educators, and communities.
The Role

You will provide scientific, analytical, and methodological expertise to support the implementation of key phases of a national education reform initiative focused on mental health and psychosocial support. Success in this role means strengthening institutional capacity, improving the quality of MHPSS provision in schools, and contributing to a model that can be scaled across Ukraine.

This position is based in Kyiv, Ukraine (non-family duty station) with a contract duration from as soon as possible until December 2026, with the possibility of extension until April 2027. The role reports to the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (designated coordinator) and NORCAP’s Education Thematic Manager.

As the Technical Mental Health Psychosocial Support Expert (MHPSS), you will take on the following responsibilities:

Role and responsibilities

• Provide analytical support by compiling and interpreting project data, contributing to reports, and assessing progress and outcomes of MHPSS interventions
• Contribute to the development and refinement of methodological approaches for delivering psychosocial support and creating safe, inclusive learning environments
• Support the design and adaptation of cross-sectoral referral systems and integrated supervision models for school-based psychological services
• Develop practical tools, guidelines, and resources for school staff, psychologists, and education stakeholders
• Support the design and delivery of training programmes and capacity-building initiatives for educators, caregivers, and relevant partners
• Facilitate knowledge exchange, mentoring, and the application of effective MHPSS practices in schools and communities
• Contribute to monitoring, evaluation and learning processes, including documenting best practices, lessons learned, and recommendations
• Support the documentation and dissemination of project results through reports, publications, and stakeholder engagement

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:

• A master’s degree or higher in psychology, education, social work, public administration, or a related field
• At least five years of relevant professional experience, including in mental health, psychosocial support, or education systems
• Demonstrated experience developing analytical, methodological, or training materials
• Experience working with government institutions, education stakeholders, or cross-sectoral partnerships
• Knowledge of trauma-informed, inclusive, and cross-sectoral approaches to MHPSS, ideally in humanitarian or crisis contexts
• Fluency in English and Ukrainian. Please read the attached terms of reference for more details before applying

Candidate Profile

The position is open to both international and national candidates. In line with localisation priorities and where competencies are comparable, priority may be given to national candidates. International candidates with extensive and proven regional professional experience, and a strong understanding of working with government counterparts and education systems in Ukraine 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 organisations.

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

For more information on contract modality and taxation, see complete terms of reference.

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 15 June 2026, 11.55PM CET.

We look forward to receiving your application!