Associate Durable Solutions Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), which was established in 1950 with the mission to protect and support refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to ensuring the rights and well-being of those forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence. The organization works to provide life-saving assistance, advocate for durable solutions, and promote the integration of refugees into host communities. UNHCR's core values include professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity, which guide its operations and interactions with stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The Associate Durable Solutions Officer plays a crucial role in addressing the needs of forcibly displaced persons and stateless individuals in the Northeast region of Nigeria. This position involves serving as a focal point for durable solutions, reporting to the Durable Solutions Officer, Protection Officer, or Senior Protection Officer. The incumbent is expected to contribute to creating an environment conducive to finding durable solutions for displaced populations. This includes engaging with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, local governments, and community organizations, to promote voluntary repatriation, local integration, and resettlement. The officer will also be responsible for assessing the needs of displaced persons, monitoring the implementation of durable solutions strategies, and providing recommendations for improvements. The role requires strong analytical, drafting, and communication skills, as well as the ability to manage relationships with diverse partners and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Durable Solutions Officer include implementing activities aligned with the comprehensive solutions strategy aimed at finding durable solutions for forcibly displaced and stateless persons. The officer will participate in planning and advising on alternative solutions, engage in consultative processes with UNHCR and external partners, and assess the needs of displaced persons to identify appropriate solutions. Responsibilities also include monitoring the implementation of durable solutions strategies, analyzing relevant statistics and trends, drafting reports, and preparing Resettlement Referral Forms (RRF). The officer will conduct interviews for local integration and prepare documentation for submission to local authorities. Additionally, the officer will engage with national and local interlocutors on durable solutions issues, authorize payments related to durable solutions, and manage risks while seeking opportunities to enhance objectives in their area of responsibility. The incumbent may also be required to perform other related duties as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Associate Durable Solutions Officer position must possess a strong understanding of refugee issues and human rights doctrine, along with excellent reporting and writing abilities. Essential qualifications include good drafting and documentation skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office productivity software, and relevant experience in the field of refugee protection and durable solutions. The position requires a proactive approach to ensuring a safe and respectful working environment, free from harassment and discrimination.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an undergraduate degree in fields such as Political Science, Social Science, Law/International Law, Economics, International Relations, or other relevant disciplines. Candidates with a graduate degree or doctorate in these fields may also be considered with reduced years of relevant experience. Specific certifications, such as the HCR RSD Learning Program, are essential for this role.

Experience:
The level of experience required for the Associate Durable Solutions Officer position varies based on the candidate's educational qualifications. For those with an undergraduate degree, a minimum of three years of relevant experience is required. Candidates with a graduate degree must have at least two years of relevant experience, while those with a doctorate need only one year of relevant experience. Experience in the Northeast Nigeria context and knowledge of the refugee and IDP structures in the region are highly desirable.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a staff member or affiliate type under UNOPS IICA1 and is not remote. The target start date for the position is January 1, 202

• The role is categorized as non-family with a residential location, and previous work experience in Northeast Nigeria is highly desirable. The incumbent may be required to head unit office responsibilities and ensure effective oversight of the Durable Solutions Unit's activities. A written test may be administered as part of the selection process.