Project Assistant (Protection)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is recognized as the leading inter-governmental organization in the field of migration. IOM collaborates closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners to ensure that migration is humane and orderly, benefiting both migrants and society. The organization is dedicated to addressing the operational challenges of migration management, enhancing understanding of migration issues, promoting social and economic development through migration, and upholding the dignity and well-being of migrants. IOM Cyprus has been operational since 2020, focusing on the project 'Operation of Semi Independent Living Units for Unaccompanied Migrant Children,' which is fully funded by the Social Welfare Services of the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare. In 2025, a new component was introduced to establish and operate a 24-hour supervised emergency shelter for unaccompanied children under 16, providing specialized services.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant (Protection) will work under the direct supervision of the Project Manager and in collaboration with the Administrative Associate (Shelter). This role is crucial in providing accommodation services for unaccompanied migrant children under 1

• The Project Assistant will support and guide unaccompanied and separated minors in their daily concerns, fostering relationships built on trust and cooperation. The position involves providing basic life skills counseling to empower these minors, assisting them in managing their finances, and drafting care and rehabilitation plans in cooperation with guardians. The Project Assistant will also identify potential employment and housing opportunities for beneficiaries aging out of the system, ensuring their basic needs are met, and maintaining regular communication with stakeholders such as social welfare services and schools. The role requires a proactive approach to case management and community support activation, ensuring that all actions align with IOM standards and confidentiality protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Assistant (Protection) include: coordinating with the shelter Administrator to support unaccompanied minors; providing basic life skills counseling; drafting care and rehabilitation plans; creating integration plans in collaboration with guardians; identifying and liaising with potential employers and landlords; assisting with basic needs such as housing and food; conducting weekly interviews with minors; responding to inquiries from stakeholders; informing social welfare services about security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security matters; guiding minors in household management and hygiene; following up on referrals; providing ongoing counseling; activating community support systems; ensuring confidentiality; preparing case reports; and coordinating with IOM teams. The Project Assistant will also undertake additional duties as assigned by the Project Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Social Work, Sociology, or Psychology, preferably at the bachelor’s level or higher from an accredited institution, along with two years of professional experience. Alternatively, a High School diploma with four years of professional experience is acceptable. A licensed Social Worker is considered an advantage. Accredited institutions are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as Social Work, Sociology, or Psychology. A bachelor’s degree or higher is preferred, but candidates with a High School diploma and significant professional experience may also be considered. The degree must be from an accredited institution recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of previous working experience, ideally in direct assistance to migrants or refugees, or in a multicultural environment. Experience working with children or in semi-independent living units is advantageous, as is knowledge of child protection issues. Familiarity with the challenges faced by unaccompanied minors is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Greek, both written and oral, is required for this position. IOM’s official languages include English, French, and Spanish, and proficiency in these languages may be evaluated during the selection process, which could include written and oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning only candidates with a valid residence and work permit for Cyprus will be considered. The appointment will depend on the candidate's medical fitness, residency verification, and necessary government authorizations. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that contradicts the organization's objectives, including discrimination and harassment. The accommodation facility operates 24/7, including weekends and public holidays, and staffing will be organized through rotating shifts to ensure continuous care and supervision of the children. Candidates should be aware that IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.