Project Officer (Social Cohesion) (P)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally while working towards harnessing the full potential of migration. IOM operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on various aspects of migration management and humanitarian response, and has a diverse workforce that reflects the global nature of its mission. The organization actively encourages applications from qualified female candidates and individuals from non-represented member countries of IOM, ensuring a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer (Social Cohesion) will play a crucial role in supporting the formulation, design, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of projects aimed at fostering social cohesion between Rohingya refugees and host communities in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. This position is vital in addressing the challenges posed by the influx of refugees and ensuring that both communities can coexist peacefully. The officer will work under the supervision of the Head of Sub-Office Senior Emergency Coordinator and the Head of Humanitarian Assistance and Operations, contributing to the development of initiatives that enhance resilience, promote livelihoods, and reduce disaster risks. The role requires a proactive approach to community engagement, ensuring that projects are inclusive and participatory, and that they effectively address the needs of the most affected populations, particularly women and youth. The Project Officer will also be responsible for coordinating with various stakeholders, including local authorities, NGOs, and community leaders, to ensure the successful implementation of Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) and other initiatives that promote social cohesion and sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Officer (Social Cohesion) will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the formulation and design of social cohesion projects; monitoring the implementation of activities against established results matrices; contributing to the development of livelihoods and disaster risk reduction projects; coordinating community consultations to prioritize Quick Impact Projects (QIPs); identifying cash-for-work initiatives for short-term employment opportunities; promoting alternative livelihoods through innovative methods; disseminating knowledge about IOM’s activities; providing timely information to senior management; supervising Social Cohesion Programme staff; coordinating with other programs, particularly the protection unit; drafting concept notes and project proposals; participating in workshops and conferences; and performing any other duties as assigned. The officer will need to ensure that all activities are aligned with IOM’s strategic objectives and contribute to the overall mission of fostering social cohesion and resilience in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Environment and Sustainability, Communication, Economics, or related fields from an accredited academic institution, along with two years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a University degree in the aforementioned fields with four years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Relevant experience should include managing community response projects, familiarity with the UN system, and knowledge of the region. Candidates should have at least five years of experience in conflict analysis, conflict transformation, disaster management, and humanitarian response. Experience in managing implementing partners and project development is advantageous. Strong coordination and negotiation skills, the ability to supervise and manage staff, and excellent knowledge of the IOM project management cycle are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Social Sciences, Environment and Sustainability, Communication, or Economics from an accredited institution. Alternatively, candidates with a University degree in these fields and additional years of relevant experience will also be considered. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in the principles of social cohesion, community development, and humanitarian response.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically at least five years in areas related to conflict analysis, conflict transformation, disaster management, and humanitarian response. Candidates should have relevant experience in managing community response projects, including livelihoods and disaster risk reduction initiatives. Familiarity with the UN system and knowledge of the region will be considered advantageous. Experience in project development, management, and reporting is also beneficial, as is experience in managing implementing partners.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Working knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish, or French, is considered an advantage. Proficiency in the required languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as a Special Short Term Graded contract, with an initial duration of six months and the possibility of extension. The role is categorized as a professional level position (P-2). Internationally recruited professional staff are required to be mobile, and any offer made to the candidate is subject to funding confirmation. This selection process may be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in a similar position for a period of 24 months. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on 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 a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.