Project Officer - Counter Trafficking in Persons

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 173 member states and offices in over 100 countries. The organization aims to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the well-being of migrants and their communities. IOM's mission includes addressing the challenges of migration, enhancing the understanding of migration issues, and providing support to governments in managing migration effectively.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer will play a crucial role in implementing a high-quality, results-oriented counter-trafficking-in-persons (TIP) and protection program in Lao PDR. This position involves a combination of technical, financial, and administrative responsibilities, as well as managing relationships with stakeholders and donors. The incumbent will specifically focus on building community leadership and resilience against trafficking for child, early, and forced marriage (CEFM) through community awareness initiatives. The project aims to enhance knowledge, awareness, and protective behaviors against TIP by CEFM, in collaboration with government authorities and local civil society organizations. The incumbent will be responsible for all tasks related to countering human trafficking and the protection portfolio, ensuring that project activities are planned, coordinated, implemented, and monitored effectively. This role requires a proactive approach to project management, including compiling and analyzing data, monitoring budgets, and ensuring compliance with IOM and donor requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Officer include:

• Assisting in the planning, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of project activities related to counter human trafficking and protection.
• Compiling, summarizing, analyzing, and presenting information/data on specific protection and counter-trafficking project topics.
• Supporting timely documentation and reporting as per IOM and donor requirements.
• Monitoring work plans, project budgets, and evaluation tools related to counter-human trafficking and protection projects.
• Acting as the focal point for administrative coordination of project implementation, liaising with various organizational units and external parties.
• Monitoring the work of implementing partners to ensure timely and effective delivery, identifying challenges, and suggesting corrective measures.
• Drafting correspondence on project reports, briefing notes, and other documentation in accordance with IOM procedures.
• Organizing meetings, workshops, and training sessions, preparing training materials, and participating in capacity-building workshops.
• Maintaining files/records for all activities and participating in meetings and conferences. 1
• Contributing to the identification and development of concept papers and project proposals for new projects. 1
• Overseeing the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration caseloads as the focal point and case manager. 1
• Providing guidance and training to other staff in the unit and supervising them as assigned. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Project Officer position include:

• A school diploma with six 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 with four years of relevant professional experience.
• Experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, United Nations agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
• Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups.
• Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess either a school diploma with six 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, or law from an accredited institution, along with four years of relevant professional experience. This educational background is essential to ensure that the incumbent has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage the responsibilities of the position.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically:

• Proven experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national and international institutions, United Nations agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations, including migrants, refugees, and victims of trafficking.
• Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or government institutions in a multi-cultural setting is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate complex environments and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in Lao is required for this position, both oral and written. Additionally, knowledge of IOM’s official languages, which include English, French, and Spanish, is beneficial. Proficiency in these languages will enhance communication with international partners and stakeholders, facilitating better collaboration and understanding of project objectives.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve international recruitment. Specific details regarding contract duration, seniority level, compensation, and benefits are not provided in the job description. However, candidates should be prepared for a role that demands a high level of commitment and engagement with various stakeholders in the field of counter-trafficking and protection.