Cultural Mediator

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on various aspects of migration management, including humanitarian assistance, migration health, and the integration of migrants into host communities. IOM Ireland has been operational since 2001, addressing migration issues such as Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration, Resettlement, Family Reunification, Counter-Trafficking, Protection, and Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS).

Job Overview:
The Cultural Mediator position is crucial for facilitating communication between service providers and migrants, particularly those seeking international protection in Ireland. The role involves providing cultural mediation and interpretation support, ensuring that communication is conducted in a neutral, accurate, and confidential manner. The incumbent will work closely with the IOM team to support community mobilization activities and assist beneficiaries in accessing essential services. This position requires a deep understanding of the challenges faced by migrants and the ability to navigate cultural sensitivities effectively. The Cultural Mediator will also play a vital role in outreach activities, informing beneficiaries about available MHPSS services and supporting their integration into the community.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide cultural mediation and interpretation support to facilitate communication between service providers and migrants, ensuring neutrality and confidentiality.
• Assist IPAS staff in Citywest with verbal interpretation to support day-to-day communication with beneficiaries.
• Help collect routine information and data through interpretation during case identification and referrals.
• Support beneficiaries in contacting service providers by providing impartial interpretation and mediation.
• Identify vulnerabilities among beneficiaries and refer them to the Senior Case Management Associate for further assistance.
• Assist IOM partners in implementing community engagement and awareness-raising activities, including logistics and beneficiary outreach.
• Conduct outreach activities to inform beneficiaries about MHPSS services and scheduled activities.
• Provide interpretation assistance during group and individual counseling sessions, focus group discussions, and psycho-education activities.
• Prepare routine documentation related to the project and submit reports to the Project Management Team. 1
• Perform any other related tasks as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma with five years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in Communication, Social Sciences, International Relations, or related fields from an accredited institution, along with at least three years of relevant professional experience. Completion of training in cultural mediation for mental health settings and competence in MHPSS specialized vocabulary is considered an asset. Experience in cultural mediation within the context of migrant assistance and previous work with international organizations, NGOs, or government departments is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a high school diploma with extensive experience or a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Communication, Social Sciences, or International Relations. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have received a recognized education that meets international standards.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience, particularly in cultural mediation and support for migrants. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or government agencies is highly desirable. Familiarity with the procedures related to asylum applications in Ireland and the ability to work effectively with migrants and asylum seekers are essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency or mother tongue proficiency in Somali is required. Knowledge of IOM’s official languages, which include English, French, and Spanish, is beneficial and will be evaluated during the selection process, potentially through written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning only candidates with a valid residence and work permit for Ireland will be considered. The appointment is contingent upon medical fitness certification and verification of residency and visa status. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the IOM online recruitment system, which also allows them to track their application status. The selection process may also be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar roles for 24 months.