Protection Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is recognized as the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration. IOM works closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. The organization is dedicated to providing services and advice to governments and migrants, ensuring that the rights and well-being of migrants are prioritized in its interventions. IOM operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a significant presence in Ethiopia, where it focuses on protecting vulnerable individuals and communities affected by migration.

Job Overview:
The Protection Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of activities under the Protection Non-emergencies portfolio, which includes the Migrant Response Centres (MRCs), Counter-trafficking initiatives, and Community Outreach programs. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Programme Officer (Protection Emergencies) and the National Officer (Protection). This position involves a variety of tasks aimed at enhancing the protection of vulnerable migrants, including monitoring project activities, managing budgets, and coordinating with various stakeholders. The role requires a proactive approach to addressing the needs of migrants and ensuring that IOM's protection standards are upheld. The Protection Assistant will also be involved in drafting reports, responding to inquiries, and providing guidance to junior staff, thereby contributing to the overall effectiveness of the Protection Unit.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Assistant will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: assisting in the implementation and monitoring of project activities; retrieving, compiling, summarizing, analyzing, and presenting information/data on specific project topics; monitoring project budgets and verifying the availability of funds; acting as a focal point for administrative coordination of project implementation; drafting status reports and correspondence on project issues; organizing meetings, workshops, and training sessions; participating in meetings and conferences; assisting in coordinating implementation activities with local authorities and partners; monitoring the work of implementing partners and reporting non-compliances; and providing guidance and training to new or junior staff members. The role may also involve performing other related duties as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a school diploma with five years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related fields from an accredited academic institution, along with three years of relevant professional experience. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. The position requires strong interpersonal skills, the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team, and a commitment to IOM's values and standards.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes either a school diploma with five years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related areas. The degree must be from an accredited institution recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have a solid foundation in the principles and practices relevant to migration and protection work.

Experience:
Candidates should have experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national and international institutions, United Nations agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups is essential. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or in a multi-cultural setting is advantageous. Additionally, experience in humanitarian and/or development programming related to migration, refugee, and internally displaced persons (IDP) issues is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required for this position. A working knowledge of Amharic is desirable, as it would enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders. 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/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Ethiopia will be considered. The appointment will be contingent upon certification of medical fitness, verification of residency, visa, and necessary authorizations by the relevant government authorities. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the organization's aims and objectives, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination. The selection process may be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar roles for a period of 24 months. IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.