Protection Response Officer, Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) (P)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally while working towards harnessing the full potential of migration. IOM operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various aspects of migration management, including humanitarian assistance, development, and policy advocacy. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from qualified candidates, particularly from non-represented member countries.

Job Overview:
The Protection Response Officer for Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) will play a crucial role in the IOM's efforts to provide safe and dignified return options for migrants with irregular status. This position involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government entities and partner organizations, to conduct protection assessments and develop risk mitigation strategies. The officer will be responsible for ensuring that migrants have access to necessary services and support throughout their return process. This includes managing operational aspects of the AVR program, coordinating with national and international protection staff, and ensuring adherence to IOM policies. The role requires a proactive approach to monitoring and reporting on protection activities, as well as contributing to the design and development of new projects based on emerging trends and donor interests. The officer will also represent IOM in meetings and forums, ensuring that the organization's objectives are communicated effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Response Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: conducting protection assessments and identifying risk mitigation strategies; leading and supporting national and international protection staff; ensuring high-quality outcomes for migrants; drafting and contributing to reports for stakeholders; collaborating with emergency coordinators and relevant staff to ensure access to services; liaising with national actors for referrals; coordinating with consular authorities for documentation and family tracing; managing protection information in line with IOM standards; participating in local coordination mechanisms; providing support for response setup; being available for short-notice international deployments; representing IOM in various meetings; monitoring implementation of protection activities; identifying priorities and contributing to project design; and performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Social Sciences, International Relations/Affairs, Research, Law, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with five years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in the same fields with seven years of relevant experience is acceptable. Candidates should have experience working with migrants, civil society, and governments, as well as proven experience in leading and managing large multinational teams. Experience in managing protection programming across multiple countries and providing assistance to vulnerable migrants is essential. Familiarity with IOM or other UN agencies, particularly in assisted voluntary return and reintegration, is preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a Master's degree in relevant fields such as Social Sciences, International Relations/Affairs, Research, or Law from an accredited academic institution. A Bachelor's degree in these fields is also acceptable if accompanied by additional years of relevant professional experience. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of migration and protection issues.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in the field of migration and protection, specifically working with migrants and vulnerable populations. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing protection programming and leading teams in diverse cultural contexts. Experience in providing assistance to migrants in vulnerable situations and communicating effectively with individuals who have complex needs is crucial. Additionally, experience in programs that include movement operations is advantageous, as is familiarity with IOM or other UN agencies.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage. Language proficiency will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a Special Short Term Graded contract, with an initial duration of nine months and the possibility of extension. The role is categorized as professional and may require international mobility. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. 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 has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with the organization's aims and objectives, including discrimination and harassment. Applications must be submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.