National Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Specialist

A career opportunity awaits at SOS Childrens Villages International — they are hiring a National Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Specialist in Mogadishu. With 5 - 6 years of experience required, this position is suited for mid-to-senior level professionals in Health/wash. The closing date for this vacancy is May, 13. External Vacancy Announcement – National MHPSS Specialist (Mogadishu, Somalia) SOS Children’s Villages Somalia is a member of the global SOS Children’s Villages federation, operating in more than 130 countries and territories worldwide. Since 1985, SOS Children’s Villages Somalia has been supporting children, young people, and families in situations of vulnerability, ensuring that children without parental care or at risk of losing it, grow up with the care, protection, and support they need to thrive. The organization works to strengthen families and communities to prevent separation, while also providing alternative care solutions aligned with the United Nations Guidelines for the Alternative Care of Children. SOS Children’s Villages promotes family-based and family-like care approaches, ensuring that the best interests of the child remain central to all interventions. Programmes are implemented across key thematic areas including alternative care, family strengthening, youth empowerment, education, health, child protection and lead cluster coordination in close collaboration with communities, government authorities, and partners. SOS Children’s Villages Somalia upholds a strict zero-tolerance policy towards child abuse, exploitation, and misconduct and is fully committed to safeguarding children and young people in all its operations. SOS Children’s Villages Somalia currently operates in Banadir Region (Heliwa, Wadajir, Dharkenley, Kahda, Afgoye corridor and Daynile districts), Southwest State (Baidoa, Buurhakaba, Qansaxdhere, Barawe and Hudur), and Hirshabelle State (Jowhar,Adale and Balcad). SOS Children’s Villages invites applications from suitable qualified and interested candidates who fulfill the eligibility criteria for the position below. Position Details Position Title: National Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Specialist Location: Mogadishu, Somalia (with frequent travel to project locations) Reporting To: National Programme === Skills & Qualifications === Qualifications and Experience Advanced degree in Psychology, Psychiatry, or a related field Minimum of 5+ years of progressively responsible experience, including at least 2 years in a senior or technical leadership role in MHPSS programming preferably in humanitarian settings Proven experience in humanitarian or fragile contexts is highly desirable Demonstrated experience in clinical supervision and capacity building Strong knowledge of IASC MHPSS Guidelines and WHO mhGAP Intervention Guide Experience integrating MHPSS into multi-sectoral programmes Experience in alternative care, kinship care, or foster care is an added advantage Previous NGO/INGO experience is preferred Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required Knowledge of Somali language is a strong asset Core Competencies Strong technical expertise in MHPSS Strategic thinking and leadership Excellent coordination and communication skills Ability to work in complex and high-pressure environm --- About Mogadishu --- Mogadishu, known locally as Muqdisho, is the capital of Somalia and the country's largest city. It serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the nation. The city hosts the headquarters of numerous UN agencies, international NGOs, and government institutions, offering diverse career opportunities for development and humanitarian professionals. Ereyada Soomaaliga (Somali Keywords): Shaqo Muqdisho • Shaqo Cusub • Shaqo Buuxda • Caafimaad & Nadaafadda • Biyaha & Nadaafadda • Caafimaad

Qualifications and Experience Advanced degree in Psychology, Psychiatry, or a related field Minimum of 5+ years of progressively responsible experience, including at least 2 years in a senior or technical leadership role in MHPSS programming preferably in humanitarian settings Proven experience in humanitarian or fragile contexts is highly desirable Demonstrated experience in clinical supervision and capacity building Strong knowledge of IASC MHPSS Guidelines and WHO mhGAP Intervention Guide Experience integrating MHPSS into multi-sectoral programmes Experience in alternative care, kinship care, or foster care is an added advantage Previous NGO/INGO experience is preferred Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required Knowledge of Somali language is a strong asset Core Competencies Strong technical expertise in MHPSS Strategic thinking and leadership Excellent coordination and communication skills Ability to work in complex and high-pressure environments High level of integrity and professionalism Extensive experience in proposal writing and project management. Ability to advocate project development Safeguarding Commitment SOS Children’s Villages is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All staff are expected to uphold the organization’s safeguarding policies and ensure that children are protected from all forms of harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

Application Procedure Interested candidates should submit: A detailed CV A cover letter Scanned copies of academic qualifications and professional certificates 3 referees with full detailed information indicating telephone numbers Deadline: 13th May -2026 Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Apply on employer site