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 offices in over 100 countries, making it a key player in the global migration landscape. The organization is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, and its mission includes providing humanitarian assistance, supporting the reintegration of migrants, and ensuring the protection of migrant rights. IOM operates with a commitment to inclusivity, integrity, and professionalism, striving to create a world where migration is a choice and not a necessity.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the IOM's Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration program in Guinea-Bissau. This position involves working closely with the Chief of Mission in Senegal and coordinating with various stakeholders to facilitate the return and reintegration of migrants. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting assessments, providing pre-departure counseling, and coordinating post-arrival assistance for returning migrants. The role requires a strong understanding of social protection and migration issues, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with various partners to ensure the effective implementation of reintegration activities. The Project Assistant will also be involved in vulnerability assessments and case management, ensuring that the needs of returnees are met and that they have access to necessary services and support.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate with sending missions and partners to conduct pre-departure family tracing and assessments for migrants.
• Participate in remote pre-departure counseling sessions to inform migrants about available assistance and reintegration processes.
• Prepare and provide reception and post-arrival assistance activities for returning migrants in collaboration with relevant IOM units.
• Organize individual or group counseling sessions for migrants in transit and returnees.
• Conduct vulnerability screenings and assessments to verify eligibility for assistance.
• Support the provision of reintegration assistance, including validation of plans and payment of service fees.
• Assess the needs of returnees and develop integrated reintegration plans.
• Refer migrants to specialized services and conduct regular case follow-ups.
• Update case information in IOM’s Migrant Management Operational System Application (MiMOSA). 1
• Liaise with government and non-government partners for activity implementation. 1
• Perform any other necessary functions as required by the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in social work, International Studies, Law, Political or Social Sciences, Development Studies, Education, or a related field from an accredited institution. Alternatively, a High School diploma in the aforementioned fields with four years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of social protection and migration issues, particularly regarding migrants' rights and protection.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as social work, International Studies, Law, Political or Social Sciences, Development Studies, or Education. Candidates with a High School diploma in these fields must have additional relevant professional experience to qualify. The educational qualifications must be from accredited institutions recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of relevant experience in social work, case management, or protection work, particularly in assisting vulnerable populations. Experience in implementing livelihood projects or providing business support is considered a strong advantage. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or government institutions in a multicultural setting is also beneficial, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate complex environments and work effectively with diverse groups.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Portuguese is mandatory for this position, both oral and written. A working knowledge of French is also desirable, as IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish. Proficiency in these languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure candidates meet the communication requirements of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Guinea-Bissau will be considered. The appointment is contingent upon funding confirmation and the candidate's medical fitness for the role. 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 strict zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that contradicts the organization's values, including discrimination and harassment. Furthermore, IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.