IRC: Project and MEAL Intern – Milan

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world”s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world”s largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), at work in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity and hope to millions. If you”re a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, come join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people world-wide for a better future.

Background

In response to the increased refugee arrivals into Europe, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) initially established programs in Greece, later expanding to Serbia, the wider Balkans, and Germany. Following assessments conducted in Italy in 2017, several critical protection gaps were identified in assistance provided to refugees and migrants, including mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), assistance to unaccompanied children, information provision, and legal support. To address these gaps, IRC established a presence in Italy, which has significantly grown over the past eight years.

Current programs in Italy include:

• Refugee.Info: A web-based information platform.
• Protection programming: Targeting people arriving in Southern Italy in collaboration with UNHCR and those entering via the Balkan route.
• Socio-economic inclusion initiatives: Focused on refugee youth and women.
• Educational projects: Including social-emotional learning and healing classrooms.

Position Overview

The Project and MEAL Officer is a dual-role position reporting to the MEAL and Protection Monitoring Manager. The role combines responsibilities in program implementation and monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) to ensure the effectiveness and impact of IRC Italy’s project portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

Program Implementation

• Collaborate closely with team members and external partners to ensure successful execution of project tasks.

Monitoring & Evaluation

• Monitor and evaluate project performance in alignment with IRC’s methodologies and standards.
• Assist in preparing and presenting comprehensive reports to senior management and funding agencies.
• Support the development of new project proposals and initiatives to expand IRC’s impact.

Learning Objectives

During this internship, the selected candidate will:

• Gain hands-on experience in MEAL processes within humanitarian programs.
• Develop skills in data collection, analysis, and reporting using IRC’s tools and methodologies.
• Understand project cycle management and contribute to program implementation.
• Learn about protection programming and socio-economic inclusion initiatives for refugees and migrants in Italy.
• Enhance knowledge of humanitarian principles, protection standards, and community engagement strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; Master’s degree or equivalent preferred.
• Previous humanitarian experience is an asset.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Experience with data collection and analysis tools and techniques.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize multiple tasks.
• Excellent computer skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Fluency in Italian and English with strong writing skills.
• Dedication to IRC”s mission and values, with a focus on inclusivity and community engagement.

Additional Information

This is a paid internship opportunity.

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

All International Rescue Committee workers must adhere to the core values and principles outlined in IRC Way – Standards for Professional Conduct. Our Standards are Integrity, Service, Equality and Accountability. In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Safeguarding, Conflicts of Interest, Fiscal Integrity, and Reporting Wrongdoing and Protection from Retaliation. IRC is committed to take all necessary preventive measures and create an environment where people feel safe, and to take all necessary actions and corrective measures when harm occurs. IRC builds teams of professionals who promote critical reflection, power sharing, debate, and objectivity to deliver the best possible services to our clients.