Senior Protection Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR Türkiye, which is part of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. UNHCR was established in 1950 with the mission to protect the rights and well-being of refugees. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. In Türkiye, UNHCR plays a crucial role in supporting the government in providing protection and assistance to refugees and asylum-seekers, particularly in the context of the ongoing refugee crisis.

Job Overview:
The Senior Protection Assistant position is integral to the Protection Unit at the Gaziantep Sub Office of UNHCR Türkiye. The role involves providing interpretation services during interviews and counseling sessions for returnees, translating essential documents, and accompanying field teams to various locations for monitoring activities. The incumbent will be expected to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, as operational needs dictate. This position is vital for ensuring that refugees and asylum-seekers receive the necessary support and information regarding their rights and available services. The Senior Protection Assistant will also contribute to the monitoring of voluntary returns, ensuring that these processes are conducted in a safe and dignified manner, in line with UNHCR's guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Protection Assistant include:

• Providing accurate and impartial interpretation between returnees and UNHCR staff during interviews and counseling sessions.
• Translating written materials such as information leaflets, consent forms, and return-related documentation into relevant languages.
• Accompanying field teams to PDMM offices and border crossings to provide interpretation during monitoring activities.
• Supporting case identification and conducting initial assessments for low-risk cases under the guidance of the Case Manager.
• Maintaining strict confidentiality and professional neutrality, especially when handling sensitive protection-related information.
• Performing other related duties as required by the supervisor.
• Reporting to the Assistant Protection Officer and submitting reports through established mechanisms, ensuring adherence to deadlines.
• Attending periodic office-wide and team-specific meetings, and participating in relevant training as approved by the office.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 1 year of relevant experience with a Bachelor's degree or higher. Candidates must demonstrate core competencies such as accountability, communication, organizational awareness, teamwork and collaboration, commitment to continuous learning, and client and result orientation. Excellent team working skills and a consistent, positive approach to work are essential. Additionally, candidates should possess a strong command of Arabic, Turkish, and English, both spoken and written, as these languages are crucial for effective communication in this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have at least a High School Diploma. A Bachelor's degree or equivalent higher education is preferred, particularly for those with less than two years of relevant experience. The educational background should ideally include studies related to social sciences, international relations, or a field relevant to refugee protection and assistance.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in a similar role, particularly in humanitarian settings or with organizations focused on refugee assistance. Candidates with 1 year of relevant experience and a Bachelor's degree may also be considered. Experience in interpretation, case management, or protection-related work is highly desirable.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are Arabic, Turkish, and English, with excellent proficiency required in both spoken and written forms. Knowledge of additional languages is considered a desirable asset, as it may enhance communication with diverse refugee populations.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a local entry and mid-level support role, with a target start date of September 1, 202

• The contract duration is subject to operational needs and satisfactory performance, with no expectation of renewal beyond the initial contract period. The role requires a commitment to work 40 hours per week, including mandatory night shifts and the possibility of weekend and holiday work. Leave entitlements include annual leave at the rate of two and a half working days per month and sick leave at the rate of two working days for each month of service. Medical coverage is provided through Cigna Health Insurance, which is also available for eligible dependents. Candidates must comply with local legislation regarding taxation and work permits, and non-Turkish candidates must obtain clearance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before an offer can be made.