The Essential Application Documents That Get You Shortlisted
Landing a UN or NGO job in South Sudan requires more than just qualifications – your application documents must immediately demonstrate your fit for humanitarian work in challenging environments. Follow this proven formula to create CVs and cover letters that stand out.
1. The UN-Style CV Format
Key Structural Elements
- Length: Strictly 3-4 pages maximum
- Font: Professional (Arial 11pt or Times New Roman 12pt)
- Sections: Reverse chronological order
Must-Include Sections
- Professional Profile (3-4 line summary highlighting South Sudan-relevant experience)
- Core Competencies (6-8 bullet points with measurable achievements)
- Work Experience (With emphasis on conflict/hardship postings)
- Education & Certifications (HEAT, Sphere Standards, etc.)
- Languages (Highlight Juba Arabic if applicable)
South Sudan-Specific CV Tips
- Quantify impact: “Managed $2.5M WASH program serving 80,000 IDPs”
- Show context awareness: Mention experience with tribal engagement or flood response
- Security emphasis: Include HEAT training and emergency evacuation experience
2. The Perfect Humanitarian Cover Letter
Paragraph Structure That Works
- Opening Hook: “Having managed protection programs in three conflict zones…”
- Why South Sudan: Demonstrate knowledge of current HRP/cluster system
- Why You: Match 3 key competencies to the job description
- Closing: Request to discuss further contributions
Power Phrases to Include
- “My experience in remote monitoring aligns with WFP’s 2024 South Sudan strategy…”
- “Having worked through two security evacuations in Upper Nile State…”
- “I implemented the same cash transfer system now being scaled up in Unity State…”
3. South Sudan-Specific Adaptations
For UN Jobs
- Use UN competency language (“Delivering Results”, “Working in Teams”)
- Reference UN South Sudan frameworks (HRP, UNDAF)
- Show peacekeeping mission experience if applicable
For NGO Jobs
- Emphasize community engagement skills
- Highlight experience with local partners
- Show flexibility (“Designed program adaptations during 2020 flooding”)
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Generic objectives (“Seeking challenging position…”)
❌ Lengthy education sections (Unless fresh graduate)
❌ Unexplained gaps (Address security evacuations or breaks)
❌ Jargon without context (Explain “CMR” if using acronyms)
5. Application Checklist
Before submitting:
✅ Proofread for South Sudan-specific keywords
✅ Ensure consistent formatting
✅ Verify all dates and locations
✅ Save as “FirstName_LastName_CV_SouthSudan.pdf”
Bonus: Sample Bullet Points
For Protection Officer:
- “Trained 45 local staff on GBV case management in Bentiu PoC site”
- “Established 8 women’s safe spaces serving 3,200 beneficiaries”
For Logistics Coordinator:
- “Managed $1.8M supply chain during 2021 road closures”
- “Reduced delivery times by 40% through new river transport routes”
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