Social Worker for Unaccompanied Minors

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization aims to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the needs of migrants and the communities they are part of. IOM's mission includes providing assistance to migrants in need, including refugees and displaced persons, and addressing the challenges of migration through comprehensive and sustainable solutions.

Job Overview:
The position of Social Worker for Unaccompanied Minors (UMC) is crucial in addressing the needs of vulnerable children who are migrants or refugees in Greece. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing daily care and support to UMCs in accommodation facilities. This role involves conducting social assessments, identifying the needs and vulnerabilities of UMCs, and ensuring they receive appropriate psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support. The Social Worker will also organize individual and group sessions to provide social support, assist UMCs in accessing necessary services, and help them develop skills for autonomy. The position requires a proactive approach to mapping available resources and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure comprehensive care for UMCs. The Social Worker will work under the supervision of the Child Protection Assistant and the Protection Focal Point, contributing to the overall mission of IOM in providing targeted care interventions for unaccompanied minors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review the social history of UMCs during the reception process and conduct social assessments considering their family environment and experiences prior to entry into the facility.
• Conduct Best Interest Assessments (BIA) to identify the needs and vulnerabilities of UMCs and refer them to the facility's Psychologist for psychosocial support if necessary.
• Organize individual or group sessions to provide social support and address challenges faced by UMCs during their stay.
• Map existing provisions in the national and humanitarian systems available to UMCs and assist them in accessing relevant specialized care and administrative services.
• Prepare documentation, leaflets, and outreach messaging in collaboration with interpreters.
• Support the development of competencies in UMCs to promote their gradual autonomy and smooth transition to adulthood.
• Identify and utilize available educational, recreational, and vocational training opportunities.
• File and post required information on UMCs in the local Adoption Information System (Anynet).
• Undertake actions as directed by the UMCs' person of reference in line with IOM policies and local laws. 1
• Conduct morning and/or afternoon shifts and be available for on-call night shifts and weekends. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:

• University degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
• Minimum one year of relevant work experience is preferred.
• Licensed Social Worker and membership in the Association of Greek Social Workers is required.
• Familiarity with direct assistance to migrants and/or refugees is advantageous.
• Experience working in a multicultural environment is preferred.
• Computer literacy in standard software applications (MS Office, etc.) is considered an asset.
• Willingness to work in shifts, including nights, holidays, and weekends.
• Valid driver’s license with at least five years of driving experience is an advantage.
• Strong flexibility and capacity in conflict resolution, along with good communication skills, personal commitment, and efficiency.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Social Work from an accredited academic institution. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. A licensed social worker status and membership in the Association of Greek Social Workers are also required for this position.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have previous experience in a similar role, particularly in an IOM Emergency Accommodation Facility, which will be considered an asset. Familiarity with direct assistance to migrants and/or refugees is preferred, as well as experience working in a multicultural environment. The position requires a minimum of one year of relevant work experience, which will enhance the candidate's ability to effectively support UMCs.

Languages:
Fluency in Greek is mandatory, along with certified working knowledge of English or French, both oral and written. Proficiency in these languages will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly IOM's official languages (English, French, and Spanish), is considered beneficial but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Greece will be eligible for consideration. The appointment will be contingent upon certification of medical fitness, verification of residency, visa, and necessary authorizations by the concerned government. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination. IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system.