Senior Programme Associate (Protection)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on various aspects of migration, including humanitarian assistance, development, and policy advocacy, aiming to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified. IOM's mission is to support governments and migrants alike, providing services and advice concerning migration to promote the well-being of migrants and their communities.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Associate (Protection) position is crucial for the effective implementation and monitoring of protection services within IOM’s protection programme in Pakistan. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Programme Coordinator (Protection) and the National Programme Officer (Protection), providing advanced support for planning, implementation, coordination, and monitoring of protection services through Implementing Partner (IP) organizations. This role involves ensuring compliance with IOM standards and donor requirements, facilitating operational planning, and contributing to quality assurance across various projects. The Senior Programme Associate will also engage in capacity-building initiatives, support the monitoring of IPs, and maintain proactive communication to address operational challenges, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of protection activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Programme Associate (Protection) include supporting the planning and implementation of ongoing and new protection activities by Implementing Partners (IPs), which involves selecting new IPs in accordance with IOM standards and project frameworks. The incumbent will assist in implementing protection-related activities such as case management, community-based protection, and coordination of legal services. They will organize and deliver capacity-building sessions on various protection topics, monitor IPs against project workplans, and maintain regular communication with field teams to identify and address challenges. Additionally, the Senior Programme Associate will participate in field visits, collect and compile data on project achievements, and assist with other tasks as needed, ensuring a comprehensive approach to protection services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in development studies, political sciences, social sciences, gender studies, law, human rights, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with four years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a high school diploma with six years of experience is acceptable. The role requires experience in supporting general protection, child protection, and gender-based violence activities, as well as familiarity with the protection sector in Pakistan. Candidates should have a good understanding of data protection principles and experience working with implementing partners. Proficiency in MS Office applications is also necessary, along with knowledge of the Afghanistan crisis and its implications for Afghan migrants and host communities.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as development studies, political sciences, social sciences, gender studies, law, or human rights from an accredited academic institution. Accredited institutions are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Candidates with a high school diploma may also apply if they have the requisite experience, specifically six years in relevant professional roles.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have significant experience in the protection sector, particularly in supporting activities related to general protection, child protection, and gender-based violence. Experience working directly with beneficiaries and in protection-related information management is highly valued. Candidates should also have a background in capacity-building initiatives and awareness-raising on protection issues, as well as a solid understanding of the challenges and priorities within the protection sector in Pakistan. Familiarity with data protection and ethical data handling practices is essential, along with proficiency in relevant software tools.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Urdu is mandatory for this position, both oral and written. Candidates will be evaluated on their language proficiency during the selection process, which may include written and oral assessments. Additionally, a working knowledge of Pashtu, Dari, or any other local languages is considered desirable, enhancing communication with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Pakistan will be considered. The appointment is contingent upon funding confirmation and medical fitness certification. Recommended candidates may remain eligible for similar positions for a period of 24 months. IOM has a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that contradicts its objectives, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.