Head of MHPSS Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Ireland has been operational since 2001, focusing on various aspects of migration management. Their mission encompasses Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration, Resettlement, Family Reunification, Counter-Trafficking, Protection, Integration Support to Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection, Integrated Immigration Governance, and Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS). IOM aims to provide comprehensive support to international protection seekers, enhancing their psychosocial well-being and resilience through targeted programs and services.

Job Overview:
The Head of MHPSS Unit will play a crucial role in overseeing the implementation of project activities related to mental health and psychosocial support for international protection seekers in Ireland. This position involves direct supervision of caseworkers and Infoline Assistants, ensuring that services provided align with established standards. The incumbent will coordinate daily operations, facilitate needs assessments, and promote access to community-based psychosocial services. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders and maintaining partnerships with civil society organizations to enhance service delivery. The Head of MHPSS Unit will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating project outcomes, preparing reports, and addressing any sensitive issues that arise.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the coordination of daily operations and services provided to residents by IOM case workers, ensuring adherence to relevant standards.
• Supervise the caseworkers’ team, facilitating equitable task allocation and providing guidance to community focal points and volunteers.
• Collaborate with the Senior MHPSS Associate and Senior Mental Health Nurse to conduct MHPSS needs assessments and research.
• Coordinate basic vulnerability screening activities and align them with IOM and IPAS standards.
• Identify training needs for the team and volunteers, reporting them to the Senior MHPSS and Case Management Associate.
• Prepare weekly updates on trends and challenges, proposing practical solutions.
• Escalate sensitive issues through appropriate referral pathways and analyze complaints and feedback from residents.
• Provide caseworkers with necessary tools and updated information materials.
• Maintain contact with agencies for information sessions and outreach activities. 1
• Direct residents to available services and maintain partnerships with civil society organizations. 1
• Stay informed about policies and best practices affecting international protection applicants and share updates with the team. 1
• Assist with monitoring, evaluation, and reporting tasks as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma with six years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution with at least four years of relevant experience. Accreditation must be from universities listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Experience in case management or assistance programs for migrants, social work, and vulnerability assessments is essential. Familiarity with State agencies and NGOs in Ireland is preferred, along with an understanding of international standards related to displacement and integration. Previous experience in mental health and psychosocial support for migrants is an asset, as is experience in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a high school diploma with significant relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from an accredited academic institution. The degree must be from a recognized university as per the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of social work and the specific needs of migrants and refugees.

Experience:
The position requires substantial experience in supporting case management or assistance programs for migrants, ideally with a focus on social work and vulnerability assessments. Candidates should have experience providing direct assistance to migrants and/or refugees, with a preference for those who have worked with State agencies and NGOs in Ireland. Understanding international standards and best practices related to displacement and integration is also important. Experience in mental health and psychosocial support, particularly in a multicultural context, is highly valued.

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 these languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to funding confirmation and may be used to staff similar roles in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible for similar positions for 24 months. This post is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates with a valid residence and work permit for Ireland will be considered. Appointment is contingent upon medical fitness certification and verification of residency and visa requirements. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with the aims of the United Nations, including discrimination and harassment. IOM does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications through its online recruitment system.