Refugee UN Volunteer Site Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the UNHCR, established on December 14, 1950, by the UN General Assembly, is dedicated to leading and coordinating international efforts to protect refugees and resolve refugee-related issues globally. The agency's primary 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. The UNHCR also facilitates voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement in a third country, thereby addressing the diverse needs of displaced individuals. With a presence in numerous countries, the UNHCR operates in various contexts to provide support and assistance to millions of refugees and displaced persons worldwide. The organization is committed to upholding the principles of humanitarian assistance and advocating for the rights of the most vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Refugee UN Volunteer Site Assistant plays a crucial role in addressing the needs of refugees in the Zaatari camp, which is one of the largest refugee operations under the UNHCR in Jordan. This position requires individuals with stateless, refugee, or similar protective status, including Temporary Protection in Jordan. The selected volunteer will be responsible for camp management-related issues, acting as the first line of staff to cover community needs. This includes receiving queries from camp refugees, coordinating with field unit staff to provide feedback, and supporting the delivery of essential services. The role demands adaptability and flexibility, as the operation moves at a high speed, and the volunteer must exercise diplomacy and effective communication skills to harmonize assistance across the operational area. The volunteer will also assist in projecting needs and participate in planning and service delivery strategies, ensuring a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges faced by refugees in the camp.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Refugee UN Volunteer Site Assistant include supporting the verification process conducted by the registration unit, assisting in the distribution of caravans and shelters, monitoring infrastructure establishment and maintenance within the camp, and reporting incidents such as fires or vandalism. The volunteer will follow up on district relocation requests, maintain and update the waiting list for caravan distribution, and review eligibility criteria for refugee families. Additionally, the volunteer will support fire awareness initiatives, report vacant shelters, and assist in prioritizing responses to shelter-related issues. The role also involves data entry, outreach to refugees facing relocation challenges, and any other tasks assigned by the field officer. This comprehensive set of responsibilities ensures that the volunteer plays an integral part in the effective management and support of the refugee community in Zaatari camp.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess average computer knowledge and experience in reporting. The role requires excellent interpersonal skills, a service-oriented mindset, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team. The volunteer should demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to continuous learning. A genuine commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement is essential, as the volunteer will be working in a challenging environment that requires adaptability and resilience.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in social sciences, humanitarian studies, or a related field would be beneficial. The ability to understand and navigate the complexities of refugee assistance and community engagement is crucial for success in this role.

Experience:
The position is suitable for individuals with prior experience in community service, humanitarian work, or volunteer roles, particularly in refugee settings. Experience in camp management or direct engagement with displaced populations is highly valued, as it equips the volunteer with the necessary skills to address the unique challenges faced by refugees.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is mandatory, given the context of the refugee population in Jordan. Proficiency in English is also desirable, as it facilitates communication with UNHCR staff and other stakeholders. Additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those spoken by the refugee community.

Additional Notes:
This is a UN Volunteer assignment based in Sub Office Mafraq, classified as a B category duty station. The living conditions in this area are challenging, characterized by hot and dry desert environments with significant temperature fluctuations. The volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. Candidates residing close to the camps are preferred, as this proximity allows for quicker response times in emergencies. The position offers a Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of JOD 458.03, along with annual and learning leaves, free medical and life insurance, and access to various learning platforms.