Specialist, Resettlement

Job description

At First Quantum, we free the talent of our people by taking a very different approach which is underpinned by a very different, very definite culture – the “First Quantum Way”.

Working with us is not like working anywhere else, which is why we recruit people who will take a bolder, smarter approach to spot opportunities, solve problems and deliver results.

Our culture is all about encouraging you to think independently and to challenge convention to deliver the best result. That’s how we continue to achieve extraordinary things in extraordinary locations.

Job description:

Purpose of the role

Resettlement Officer/ Specialist – to assist the team with complex medium to large-scale resettlement projects in line and compliant with IFC performance standards and Zambian legislation, authorities, and local context.

Job & Candidate Requirements 

Key Responsibilities:

Resettlement Action Plans (RAP):

Develop and update Resettlement Action Plans in line with national and international standards.
Coordinate the design and implementation of resettlement programs to ensure minimal disruption to the affected communities.
Identify and assess the needs of affected populations, including housing, land, and livelihood restoration.
Facilitate and lead survey team and process.
Familiar with Zambian land tenure processes and challenges.

Community Engagement and Consultation:

Understand, respect and collaborate well with Traditional Leadership.
Lead consultations with affected communities to understand their concerns, needs, and expectations.
Facilitate transparent communication between the project team and displaced persons.
Coordinate stakeholder engagement, including local authorities, NGOs, and other relevant parties.

Livelihood Restoration:

Ensure that compensation for displaced persons is fair, adequate, and timely.
Oversee the development and implementation of livelihood restoration programs, training, and access to basic services.
Ensure the relocation process is smooth and that basic needs (housing, health, water, education) are met in the new location.

Monitoring and Reporting:

Monitor and evaluate resettlement activities, ensuring they meet the project’s objectives and timelines.
Prepare detailed progress reports and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
Ensure compliance with local laws, international resettlement guidelines (such as the World Bank or IFC standards), and the project’s environmental and social commitments.

Risk Management:

Identify and mitigate risks associated with resettlement and displacement.
Address and resolve conflicts or grievances arising from the resettlement process.
Implement effective measures to reduce negative impacts on displaced populations.

Stakeholder Management:

Liaise with government agencies, local authorities, and community organizations to ensure smooth implementation of resettlement activities.
Maintain effective relationships with project partners, local communities, and external agencies involved in resettlement.

Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Environmental Management, or related fields.
Fluent in Zambia North Western Province local languages.
At least 8/10 years of experience in resettlement in Zambia.
Knowledge of resettlement policies, legal frameworks, national authority, and international standards (such as World Bank and IFC policies).
Strong understanding of social safeguards, resettlement mechanisms, and livelihood restoration.
Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and community consultation specific to resettlement and good governance.
Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
Ability to work in challenging environments and under pressure.
Technical skills in project management, GIS, socioeconomic baseline survey development, management and analysis, monitoring & evaluation, technical writing, and visual communication.

Behavioral Traits Required:

Team player with technical attention to detail.
Respectful to all.
Honest, sober, not flexible to non-compliance.
Trustworthy, expected to go the extra mile.
Not politically motivated or connected.
Diligent, professional, and respectful to all.
Any other please include normal stuff…

Other Requirements:

Driver license