Field Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to helping those forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence. The organization works to provide protection, assistance, and solutions for refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and stateless individuals, focusing on their rights and needs in various contexts.

Job Overview:
The Field Associate position is a critical role within UNHCR, primarily focused on field activities related to the organization's humanitarian efforts. The incumbent will be supervised by a (Senior) Field Officer or Head of Office and will be responsible for monitoring the situation in the Area of Responsibility (AoR), collecting relevant data, and reporting findings to the supervisor. The role requires regular interaction with local authorities, implementing partners, and the refugee community to ensure effective service delivery and problem resolution. The Field Associate will also be involved in assessing the needs of vulnerable groups, contributing to the preparation of reports, and assisting in administrative tasks. This position demands a proactive approach to identifying and managing risks while supporting the overall objectives of UNHCR in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Field Associate include monitoring the situation in the AoR, collecting and reporting data relevant to UNHCR's operations, and overseeing the implementation of UNHCR programs. The incumbent will conduct regular site visits to assess the needs of persons of concern, maintain communication with local authorities and implementing partners, and act as an interpreter when necessary. Additionally, the Field Associate will assist in the reception, registration, and provision of assistance to persons of concern, negotiate with local authorities and partners, and represent UNHCR in physical monitoring of projects. The role also involves supporting risk management and decision-making processes, as well as performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Field Associate position must possess a minimum of three years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include strong communication skills, the ability to draft and document effectively, and proficiency in multi-stakeholder communications with partners, government, and community. Familiarity with program management and reporting standards is also required. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a minimum, with a Bachelor’s degree in fields such as Business Administration, Law, or Political Science being preferred. Relevant certifications in these areas are also advantageous. Candidates should have completed any necessary training or learning programs related to UNHCR functions, particularly those that enhance their understanding of humanitarian operations and fieldwork.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Field Associate position includes a minimum of three years of relevant experience in humanitarian work, particularly with agencies focused on refugee assistance and coordination. Experience working with internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, and returnees is crucial, as is familiarity with project monitoring and assessments. Previous work in IDP sites and camps in northeast Syria is highly desirable, as it demonstrates an understanding of the local context and challenges faced by the population.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which in this case is Arabic. Knowledge of Kurdish is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with local populations and enhance the effectiveness of the role. Candidates should be able to communicate clearly and effectively in both written and spoken forms in the required languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA6 category and is not home-based. The target start date for the role is November 20, 202

• The position is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment, classified as hardship level E, which indicates significant difficulties in the duty station. The organization emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and empowering work environment, free from harassment and discrimination. UNHCR encourages qualified female applicants to apply and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a written test and/or oral interview.