Field Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. The organization focuses on ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it strives to promote durable solutions for refugees, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement to a third country. UNHCR is committed to upholding the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence in its operations, and it works closely with governments, NGOs, and other partners to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Field Associate position is crucial for monitoring and supporting the Rohingya refugee community in Aceh, Indonesia. The incumbent will be responsible for conducting regular visits to refugee sites, providing counseling and protection services, and coordinating with local authorities and humanitarian organizations. The role requires a proactive approach to ensure the safety and well-being of refugees, particularly in light of the ongoing arrivals due to the deteriorating security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation in Myanmar and Bangladesh. The Field Associate will engage with various stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and host communities, to facilitate a collaborative response to the needs of the refugee population. This position is based primarily in Pidie, Aceh, with occasional travel to other locations as necessary. The Field Associate will play a vital role in ensuring that refugees receive the necessary assistance and protection, while also fostering peaceful coexistence with local communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Field Associate include monitoring the situation in the Area of Responsibility (AoR), collecting relevant data and information for UNHCR, and reporting findings to the supervisor. The incumbent will monitor the implementation of UNHCR programs, including the delivery of assistance items and infrastructure monitoring. Regular visits to various refugee sites will be conducted to assess the needs of persons of concern, with a focus on vulnerable groups. The Field Associate will maintain regular contact with local authorities and implementing partners, act as an interpreter when necessary, and contribute to the preparation of status and progress reports. Administrative tasks such as report preparation and assisting authorized personnel during field missions will also be part of the role. The Field Associate will inform and act on reports received regarding persons of concern, assist in the reception and registration of refugees, negotiate with local authority counterparts, and represent UNHCR in physical monitoring of projects. Additionally, the Field Associate will support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum completion of secondary education with certification, although a university degree in Journalism, Social Sciences, Humanities, or related fields is preferred. Candidates must possess relevant experience, with two years of experience required for those with a High School Diploma, or one year of relevant work experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Nationality requirements specify that candidates must be citizens of Indonesia or non-citizens with Indonesian permanent residence. The role demands excellent knowledge of English and Bahasa Indonesia, both written and spoken, and desirable skills include diverse field experience, experience in interviewing, and prior experience liaising with law enforcement agencies.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed at least secondary education, with a preference for those holding a university degree in relevant fields such as Journalism, Social Sciences, or Humanities. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of the refugee situation and effectively engaging with various stakeholders.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience for candidates with a High School Diploma, or one year of relevant work experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Experience in field operations, particularly in emergency or humanitarian contexts, is highly desirable. Familiarity with UNHCR's operational frameworks and previous field experience will be advantageous for candidates.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English and Bahasa Indonesia is mandatory for this position, both in written and spoken forms. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the refugee population.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA6 category and is not remote. The target start date for the role is August 1, 2025, and the application deadline is August 1, 202

• The position is full-time and may involve travel to various refugee-receiving and hosting locations in Aceh. UNHCR prioritizes individuals impacted by workforce reductions and discontinuations from January 1, 2025, in its recruitment process. All UNHCR staff members are expected to contribute to a safe working environment and uphold the organization's values, including zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse.