Assistant Durable Solutions Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to providing protection and assistance to refugees and displaced persons, working to find durable solutions to their plight, and advocating for their rights and needs on a global scale.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Durable Solutions Officer will play a crucial role in the implementation of durable solutions strategies for refugees in Iraq, specifically focusing on fostering an inclusive environment for refugees and promoting their integration into national systems. Reporting to the Senior Development Officer based in Baghdad, the incumbent will be responsible for ensuring that the strategies align with UNHCR's multi-year objectives and the Global Compact for Refugees. This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government ministries and development partners, to advocate for the inclusion of refugees in national development programs. The Assistant Durable Solutions Officer will also engage in consultative processes to promote durable solutions and will be instrumental in building partnerships that enhance the overall protection environment for refugees in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Assistant Durable Solutions Officer include providing counseling to refugees to identify appropriate durable solutions, interviewing candidates for voluntary repatriation and local integration, and preparing necessary documentation for these processes. The incumbent will also assist in updating electronic databases related to resettlement and local integration, ensuring timely processing of documentation for persons of concern (POC). Additionally, the officer will prepare statistical reports and maintain close linkages with staff overseeing data production to support fact-based advocacy. The role involves identifying and managing risks, participating in relevant sectoral working groups, and ensuring that the voices of refugee communities are included in the design and implementation of solutions strategies. The Assistant Durable Solutions Officer will also be responsible for performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of one year of direct work experience in a large international development institution, particularly in a relevant position that involves field operations. Experience in either the education or protection sector is essential, along with practical experience working with refugees and forcibly displaced populations. The desired candidate should have a strong understanding of economic growth, governance, and the complexities of conflict and fragility. Expertise in engaging with government entities and promoting inclusive policies is also required. Proficiency in English and Kurdish is mandatory, while knowledge of Arabic is considered desirable. Prior experience with the Prospects Partnership is an added advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an undergraduate degree in fields such as Political Science, Social Science, Law, International Relations, or other relevant disciplines. Candidates with a graduate degree or doctorate may also be considered, particularly if they have no prior experience. The role demands a solid understanding of refugee issues and human rights, as well as strong reporting and writing skills.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree. Those with a graduate degree or doctorate may apply without prior experience. The experience should ideally be within a large international development institution, focusing on refugee issues and the protection of displaced populations. Candidates should demonstrate a practical understanding of the challenges faced by refugees and the necessary strategies to promote their inclusion and self-reliance.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are Kurdish and English. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable but not required. Candidates must be able to demonstrate their language skills during the application process, categorizing them according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA8 category and is not remote. The target start date for the role is January 1, 2026, and the deadline for applications is January 22, 202

• The position is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment, requiring a commitment to the principles of UNHCR and a proactive approach to preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct. The role may involve supervisory responsibilities for durable solutions staff and requires a collaborative approach to enhance partnerships with various stakeholders.