Head of Field Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), an organization established in 1950 with the mission to protect and support refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to ensuring the rights and well-being of those forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence. The organization aims to safeguard the rights of refugees, provide them with assistance, and seek durable solutions to their plight, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement in a third country.

Job Overview:
The Head of Field Unit position is a critical role within UNHCR, responsible for overseeing the implementation of programs and protection strategies for refugees and other persons of concern in the designated area of responsibility (AOR). The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the UNHCR Representative or Head of Sub/Field Office, providing operational support and guidance on various issues, including program management, external relations, and protection matters. This role requires strong leadership skills, as the Head of Field Unit will represent UNHCR at the field level, engaging with local authorities, NGOs, and other stakeholders to advocate for the rights and needs of the population of concern. The position demands a proactive approach to managing risks and opportunities, ensuring that UNHCR's standards and policies are upheld while addressing the specific legal and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security concerns of the population served. The incumbent will also be responsible for resource management, staff welfare, and compliance with UNHCR's operational policies and standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Field Unit include monitoring and reporting on the implementation of refugee responsibilities and international obligations of local authorities, advocating for UNHCR standards regarding the treatment of persons of concern, and ensuring that the basic needs of the population are assessed and met. The incumbent will oversee the planning, formulation, and budgeting of assistance projects, ensuring timely implementation and monitoring of activities. Additionally, the Head of Field Unit will manage UNHCR resources effectively, maintain security measures for the office and residential compounds, and ensure staff welfare is prioritized. The role also involves preparing and submitting regular reports to senior management, representing UNHCR in inter-agency forums, and enforcing compliance with global protection and operational standards. The incumbent will lead risk assessments and discussions with teams to manage risks proactively and ensure that risk management principles are integrated into decision-making processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of three years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, two years with a graduate degree, or one year with a doctorate degree. Relevant fields of education include Business Administration, Economics, International Relations, Law, Management, Political Science, or other related disciplines. Essential qualifications include knowledge of UNHCR's mandate and its application at the field level, as well as applied knowledge of protection principles and operational standards. Functional skills such as computer literacy and understanding of UNHCR's global strategic priorities are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor's degree in fields such as Business Administration, Economics, International Relations, Law, Management, or Political Science. Advanced degrees are preferred and may reduce the required years of experience. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation that supports their understanding of the complexities involved in refugee protection and assistance.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience in the field of refugee protection, program management, or related areas. The experience should demonstrate the ability to manage complex operational environments, engage with diverse stakeholders, and lead teams effectively. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in challenging contexts and be able to navigate the intricacies of humanitarian operations.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is Spanish in this case. Additionally, knowledge of the local language is highly desirable to facilitate communication with the population of concern and local authorities. Candidates should demonstrate at least a B2 level of proficiency in the required languages to ensure effective communication and reporting.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, and it is a regular assignment with a target start date of September 1, 202

• The position is full-time and may involve working in challenging environments. UNHCR is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from diverse backgrounds and persons with disabilities. The organization offers competitive compensation and benefits, including opportunities for professional development and training.