Case Manager and Psychosocial Support

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM's mission is to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, saving lives and protecting people on the move. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, providing services and advice to governments and migrants, and is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace for its employees.

Job Overview:
The position of Case Manager and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support is integral to IOM's Voluntary Assisted Return (AVR) response for extra-regional migrants in Costa Rica. The selected candidate will be responsible for case management and providing psychosocial support to beneficiaries. This role involves conducting pre-screening assessments to determine eligibility for AVR services, utilizing the MIMOSA system for case tracking, and conducting interviews to gather information about the individuals' situations. The case manager will also provide follow-up services throughout the AVR process, ensuring beneficiaries are informed and supported. Additionally, the role requires collaboration with other teams and stakeholders to facilitate successful returns, as well as providing psychological first aid and emotional support to migrants. The case manager will design and implement individualized psychosocial support plans and group-based interventions, ensuring that all activities are documented accurately and in compliance with IOM guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct pre-screening assessments for individuals applying for AVR services, gathering necessary information to determine eligibility and specific needs.
• Use the MIMOSA system to input and track case details, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records are maintained.
• Conduct interviews with individuals to gather further information, assess their situation, and explain the AVR process and available services.
• Complete data entry in Kobo and Excel, ensuring all required fields are filled accurately and in a timely manner.
• Provide follow-up services for individuals throughout the AVR process, ensuring they are fully informed and supported.
• Manage cases by coordinating with other teams and stakeholders, ensuring necessary steps are taken for successful returns.
• Analyze each case to identify specific needs, challenges, and appropriate interventions.
• Liaise with translators to ensure clear communication with migrants who speak different languages.
• Collaborate with other case managers to share information, strategies, and best practices. 1
• Communicate and coordinate with IOM offices in the country of origin to arrange for individuals' returns. 1
• Handle coordination with Movements to purchase airline tickets for individuals. 1
• Provide support and accompaniment at the airport, assisting individuals through check-in and departure procedures. 1
• Ensure all case management activities are documented accurately. 1
• Conduct TDYs in Paso Canoas and other border areas as required. 1
• Provide psychological first aid and emotional support to migrants. 1
• Conduct initial and follow-up psychosocial assessments to identify risk factors and protective needs. 1
• Design and implement individualized psychosocial support plans. 1
• Identify health needs during psychosocial care sessions and ensure timely referrals. 1
• Record psychosocial care provided, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with data protection principles. 2
• Design and implement group-based psychosocial care interventions when appropriate.

Required Qualifications:

• Professional with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, registered with the Professional Association of Psychologists.
• Four years of relevant experience in working with vulnerable populations.
• General studies in gender studies, migration, case management, peace and conflict studies are advantageous.
• Fluency in English is required (at least B2 level).
• Fluency in any other language (French, Arabic, Russian, Mandarin, Portuguese) is an advantage.
• Previous experience in case management in humanitarian settings is preferred.
• Excellent writing, analytical, organizational, and planning skills.
• Ability to multitask and work both in a team and independently.
• Strong communication skills and ability to incorporate diversities into work.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree in psychology is required, with registration in the Professional Association of Psychologists. Candidates should provide evidence of their registration in the Colegio de Profesionales en Psicología de Costa Rica. Additional studies in related fields such as gender studies, migration, or peace and conflict studies will be considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of four years of experience working with vulnerable populations is required. Candidates should have previous experience in case management within humanitarian settings and demonstrate the ability to communicate and work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Experience in protection activities and coordinating with institutional and UN counterparts is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is required for this position, both oral and written. Proficiency in additional languages such as French, Arabic, Russian, Mandarin, or Portuguese is considered an advantage. Language proficiency will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local hiring and candidates must have a valid work and residence permit for Costa Rica. The initial contract duration is until December 2026, with the possibility of extension based on available funding. The IOM applies a zero-tolerance policy towards conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination. The IOM does not charge any fees during the selection process and only accepts applications submitted through its online system.