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 and has a mission to protect the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons. The organization operates in over 130 countries worldwide, with a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. In Türkiye, UNHCR plays a crucial role in supporting the government in providing assistance and protection to refugees and asylum-seekers, particularly in the context of the ongoing Syrian refugee crisis.

Job Overview:
The Senior Protection Assistant position is integral to the Gaziantep Field Unit of UNHCR Türkiye. The incumbent will be responsible for providing interpretation services during interviews and counseling sessions with refugees and returnees, ensuring accurate communication between them and UNHCR staff. This role also involves translating written materials related to refugee assistance and protection, accompanying field teams to various locations for monitoring activities, and supporting case identification and assessments under the guidance of a Case Manager. The position requires flexibility, as monitoring activities may occur during day and night shifts, including weekends and holidays, depending on operational needs. The Senior Protection Assistant will work closely with the Assistant Field Officer and is expected to maintain strict confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

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

• Providing accurate and impartial interpretation between refugees/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 supervision of the Case Manager.
• Maintaining strict confidentiality and professional neutrality, especially when dealing with sensitive protection-related information.
• Performing other related duties as required by the supervisor.
• Reporting on activities and submitting timesheets for any night shifts or overtime hours worked.
• Attending periodic office-wide and team-specific meetings and participating in relevant training sessions as approved by the office.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Senior Protection Assistant position include:

• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma; or 1 year of relevant experience with a Bachelor's degree or equivalent higher education.
• Excellent teamwork skills and a consistent approach to work with energy and a positive, constructive spirit.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.
• A commitment to continuous learning and a client-oriented approach.
• Core competencies in accountability, communication, organizational awareness, teamwork & collaboration, and client & result orientation.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a minimum, with a preference for candidates holding a Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong understanding of social services, humanitarian assistance, or related areas that pertain to refugee protection and support.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Senior Protection Assistant position is at least 2 years of relevant experience in a similar role, particularly in humanitarian settings or refugee assistance. Candidates with 1 year of experience and a Bachelor's degree may also be considered. Experience in case management, interpretation, and working with vulnerable populations is highly desirable.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are Turkish, Arabic, and English, with excellent command in both spoken and written forms. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with refugees and UNHCR staff. Additional languages may be considered an asset but are not required.

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 working hours are set at 40 hours per week, which may include mandatory night shifts and the possibility of work on weekends and official holidays. 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. The remuneration for this position is based on the G5 level salary scale as determined by the International Civil Services Commission (ICSC). Non-Turkish candidates must obtain clearance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before an offer can be made, and they are required to upload valid residence permits as part of their application.