Head of MHPSS Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1951, with a mission to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM has been operational in Ireland since 2001, focusing on various aspects of migration management including Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration, Resettlement, Family Reunification, Counter-Trafficking, Protection, Integration Support, and Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS). IOM operates in over 100 countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to addressing the challenges of migration and supporting migrants and communities.

Job Overview:
The Head of MHPSS Unit will play a crucial role in delivering psychosocial support activities aimed at improving the well-being and resilience of international protection seekers residing in the Citywest accommodation facility. This position involves supervising the MHPSS Associates, coordinating task distribution, monitoring progress, and providing guidance to ensure high-quality service delivery. The incumbent will assist in planning and coordinating psychosocial support activities, contribute to the identification of training needs, and support collaboration with external partners to facilitate access to services for residents. The role requires a strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adhering to IOM’s protection principles, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all residents.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supervise the work of MHPSS Associates, coordinating task distribution and monitoring progress to maintain service quality.
• Assist in planning and coordinating psychosocial support activities, ensuring alignment with IOM’s MHPSS framework and project objectives.
• Help prepare and organize psychoeducational and wellbeing activities for residents.
• Identify training needs and contribute to learning opportunities for staff.
• Collect data and statistics for submission to the Monitoring and Evaluation team, supporting operational reports for program tracking.
• Collaborate with external partners, including NGOs and community organizations, to maintain referral networks.
• Ensure psychosocial support activities adhere to IOM’s operational guidelines and confidentiality standards.
• Contribute to creating a safe, inclusive, and protection-sensitive environment for all residents.
• Perform any other duties as required by the Chief of Mission or Senior MHPSS and Case Management Associate.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma with six years of professional experience, or a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling & Psychotherapy, Clinical or Counselling Psychology, Educational Psychology, Social Work (Counselling stream), or another relevant mental health discipline from an accredited institution with four years of relevant work experience. Accreditation or membership with a recognized professional body, such as the Psychological Society of Ireland or IACP, is considered an asset. Familiarity with international standards and best practices related to displacement and integration is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma with significant professional experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant mental health discipline from an accredited academic institution. Accredited institutions are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Candidates with advanced degrees or additional certifications in mental health fields will be viewed favorably.

Experience:
Candidates should have experience in humanitarian, social service, community support, or MHPSS-related settings, particularly with migrants, refugees, and vulnerable populations. Experience supervising staff in operational or program tasks is desirable, as is familiarity with referral processes and community-based support networks. Knowledge of working with State agencies and NGOs in Ireland is preferred, along with a sound understanding of international standards and best practices related to displacement and integration.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. A working knowledge of any UN languages is considered an advantage, as IOM’s official languages include English, French, and Spanish. Proficiency in required languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Ireland will be considered. The appointment will be contingent upon medical fitness certification and verification of residency and visa requirements. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its objectives, including discrimination and harassment. The selection process may be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar roles for 24 months. IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.