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

1. Professional Profile (3-4 line summary highlighting South Sudan-relevant experience)
2. Core Competencies (6-8 bullet points with measurable achievements)
3. Work Experience (With emphasis on conflict/hardship postings)
4. Education & Certifications (HEAT, Sphere Standards, etc.)
5. 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

1. Opening Hook: “Having managed protection programs in three conflict zones…”
2. Why South Sudan: Demonstrate knowledge of current HRP/cluster system
3. Why You: Match 3 key competencies to the job description
4. 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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