MHPSS Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization established in 1951, dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM has a mission to ensure the orderly and humane management of migration, to promote international cooperation on migration issues, to assist in the search for practical solutions to migration problems, and to provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in need. IOM operates in over 100 countries worldwide, with a workforce of more than 17,000 employees. IOM Ireland has been active 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).

Job Overview:
The MHPSS Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of project activities aimed at enhancing the psychosocial well-being of international protection seekers residing in the Citywest accommodation facility. This position involves direct supervision of the MHPSS Assistants (Community Mobilisers) and coordination of daily operations and socio-relational activities provided to beneficiaries. The incumbent will assist in conducting MHPSS needs assessments, surveys, and research to promote access to community-based psychosocial and protection services. The role requires maintaining contact with various agencies to coordinate outreach activities and information sessions for residents, ensuring that they are directed to available services in line with established guidance. The MHPSS Assistant will also be responsible for preparing weekly updates on trends and challenges, escalating sensitive issues, and assisting with data collection, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting tasks of the MHPSS Unit.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the coordination of daily operations and socio-relational activities provided to beneficiaries by the Community Mobilisers team.
• Supervise MHPSS Assistants in implementing their activities, ensuring equitable task allocation and providing guidance to community focal points and volunteers.
• Assist with MHPSS needs assessments, surveys, and research, collaborating with the social information assistants team.
• Coordinate basic vulnerability screening activities and align them with IOM and IPAS standards.
• Identify training needs and resources for the team and volunteers, reporting them to the Senior Cultural Mediation and Community Engagement Associate.
• Prepare weekly updates on trends and challenges, highlighting practical solutions.
• Escalate sensitive issues following appropriate referral pathways and provide weekly analysis of complaints and feedback from residents.
• Assist the social information team with tools and updated information materials.
• Maintain contact with agencies for coordination of information sessions and outreach activities. 1
• Direct residents to available services in line with established guidance. 1
• Maintain established coordination and partnerships with civil society organizations. 1
• Apply established referral pathways for incidents affecting residents. 1
• Assist with data collection, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting tasks of the MHPSS Unit. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma with at least six years of relevant experience; or a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Community Development, or Education from an accredited institution with at least four years of professional experience.
• Experience supporting programs for migrants and providing direct assistance to migrants and/or refugees is preferred.
• Knowledge and experience working with State agencies and NGOs in Ireland is preferred.
• Understanding of international standards and best practices related to displacement and integration.
• Previous work experience or training in mental health and psychosocial support to migrants is an asset.
• Experience in a multicultural environment is advantageous.
• Previous experience with international organizations, NGOs, EU Agencies, or Irish law enforcement or Government Departments is an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess either a high school diploma with significant relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Community Development, or Education from an accredited academic institution. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
The position requires at least six years of relevant experience for candidates with a high school diploma or a minimum of four years of professional experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience in supporting programs for migrants and providing direct assistance to migrants and/or refugees is preferred. Familiarity with the procedures related to asylum applications in Ireland is also beneficial.

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

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to local recruitment, and 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 concerned Government. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination. IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.