Cultural Mediation Project Assistant

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, ensuring that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified. IOM's mission includes addressing the challenges of migration, providing humanitarian assistance, and supporting the rights of migrants. With a workforce of over 18,000 employees, IOM is committed to fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and professionalism in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Cultural Mediation Project Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of cultural mediation activities under the Immigration and Border Governance (IBG) Unit. This position is vital for assisting International Protection Applicants (IPAs) in Ireland, ensuring that they receive the necessary support throughout their application process. The successful candidate will work closely with the Chief of Mission and the Senior Project Associate, collaborating with various units at IOM Headquarters and Administrative Centres. The role involves monitoring project activities, liaising with stakeholders, and ensuring effective communication and coordination among all parties involved. The assistant will also be responsible for compiling and analyzing data, drafting reports, and providing administrative support to facilitate the smooth operation of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Cultural Mediation Project Assistant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Assisting in the implementation and monitoring of the Cultural Mediation Project activities, ensuring alignment with project goals and objectives.
• Liaising with donors, local authorities, and other stakeholders to facilitate project activities and ensure effective communication.
• Supporting the recruitment and monitoring of cultural mediators deployed at the International Protection Office (IPO) and Citywest.
• Compiling, summarizing, analyzing, and presenting information/data on specific project topics to inform decision-making.
• Monitoring the project budget, verifying fund availability, obtaining necessary approvals, and updating budget-related information.
• Acting as the focal point for administrative coordination, involving extensive liaison with various organizational units and external parties.
• Drafting status reports, identifying shortfalls in delivery, and suggesting remedial actions to the supervisor.
• Preparing and updating reports, briefing notes, graphics, statistical tables, presentations, and other documentation related to the project.
• Responding to complex information requests and inquiries, maintaining organized files and records, and organizing meetings, workshops, and training sessions. 1
• Participating in meetings and conferences, assisting in coordinating implementation activities with local authorities, partners, and other stakeholders. 1
• Providing guidance and training to new or junior staff members as needed. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a High School diploma with at least five years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related fields from an accredited academic institution, along with three years of relevant professional experience. Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal, intercultural, and communication skills, as well as the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including governmental authorities and non-governmental organizations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School diploma or a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related disciplines. The degree must be from an accredited institution recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have a solid foundation in the principles and practices relevant to migration and humanitarian work.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have substantial experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national and international institutions, United Nations agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups is essential. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or in multi-cultural settings is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate complex environments and engage effectively with diverse populations.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to current migratory trends in Ireland, such as French, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese, Somali, Georgian, and others, is considered advantageous. Working knowledge of any UN languages is also beneficial, as IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish. Proficiency in the required languages will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure candidates meet the communication needs of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Ireland will be eligible for consideration. The appointment will be contingent upon certification of medical fitness, verification of residency, visa, and necessary authorizations by the relevant government authorities. The selection process may also be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar roles for a period of 24 months. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the organization's aims and objectives, including issues related to sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination. IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system.