MHPSS (Protection) Specialist – Children & Legal Identity

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 over 173 member states and operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on ensuring humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, with a mission to promote international cooperation on migration issues, assist in the search for practical solutions to migration problems, and provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in need.

Job Overview:
The MHPSS (Protection) Specialist – Children & Legal Identity plays a crucial role in enhancing the protection and mental health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support (MHPSS) services for migrants, particularly focusing on children and families. This position is vital in addressing the barriers that prevent migrants from accessing essential services, such as healthcare and legal identity documentation. The specialist will be responsible for assessing existing programs, identifying gaps, and developing tools and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that ensure continuity of care and access to services for migrant children and adults. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including health authorities and civil registration actors, to streamline processes and enhance service delivery for vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the MHPSS (Protection) Specialist include conducting child-sensitivity assessments of existing programs, mapping vaccination pathways, analyzing barriers to legal identity, and developing SOPs for obtaining necessary documentation. The specialist will also train staff and partners on new procedures, provide technical support to community-based teams, and establish monitoring tools to track access to services. Additionally, the role requires participation in coordination groups and developing partnerships with organizations like UNICEF to enhance the effectiveness of protection and MHPSS initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma with six years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Public Health, Law, Protection, or a related field from an accredited institution, accompanied by four years of relevant professional experience. The position requires a strong understanding of child protection and MHPSS, as well as knowledge of civil registration and identity systems. Strong facilitation, drafting, and coordination skills are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes either a high school diploma with extensive relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as Psychology, Social Work, Public Health, Law, or Protection. The educational qualifications should be from an accredited institution, ensuring that candidates have a solid foundation in the principles and practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
A minimum of four years of relevant experience in areas such as MHPSS, protection, child protection, civil registration, or migration is required. Candidates should have experience in conducting assessments and developing SOPs or service pathways, as well as familiarity with documentation processes, birth registration, and health referral systems. This experience is crucial for effectively addressing the challenges faced by migrants and ensuring their access to essential services.

Languages:
Fluency in English and/or French is required for this position, both oral and written. This language proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders, partners, and the migrant population served by the organization. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve working in various settings, including transit and return centers, host communities, and reintegration locations. It is important to note that the role may require flexibility in working hours and the ability to travel as needed to fulfill the responsibilities effectively. The contract duration, seniority level, and compensation details will be provided during the recruitment process.