Senior Protection Assistant (Arabic-speaking)

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), an organization dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1950, UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, providing assistance and support to millions of people worldwide. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it strives to promote durable solutions for refugees, including voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement to a third country. UNHCR's mission is to safeguard the rights of refugees and to ensure their access to essential services, protection, and support systems, particularly in regions facing conflict and instability.

Job Overview:
The Senior Protection Assistant (Arabic-speaking) position is crucial for supporting UNHCR's voluntary return monitoring activities in Türkiye. The incumbent will be part of the Sanliurfa Field Unit, where they will conduct interviews with refugees considering voluntary return to their home countries. This role requires effective communication with individuals of concern, ensuring they understand their rights and options in a language they comprehend. The Senior Protection Assistant will also document the process according to UNHCR standards and contribute to broader protection interventions. The position demands flexibility, as the incumbent may need to work during day and night shifts, including weekends, to meet operational needs. The role is integral to enhancing the efficiency of UNHCR's refugee response in the region, particularly in light of the increasing voluntary returns of Syrian refugees.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Protection Assistant will be responsible for conducting voluntary return interviews, monitoring the voluntariness of returns, and ensuring that individuals are informed of their rights and options. They will document the outcomes of these interviews and report them promptly. Additionally, the incumbent will participate in counseling sessions, prepare case summaries, update the protection database, and support referrals to relevant services. The role may also involve interpreting during field visits and community consultations, as well as translating documents to ensure accessibility of protection information. The Senior Protection Assistant will engage in various protection activities, including trainings and inter-agency coordination meetings, and will support other tasks as assigned by the supervisor. Strong interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity are essential for building effective working relationships with stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a high school diploma, or 1 year of relevant experience with a bachelor’s degree or higher. Required competencies include accountability, communication, organizational awareness, teamwork and collaboration, commitment to continuous learning, and client and result orientation. Proficiency in MS Office applications and relevant data entry systems is mandatory, along with advanced problem-solving and analytical thinking skills. The ability to handle confidential information and work under pressure is crucial, as is familiarity with UNHCR protection standards and refugee law.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma as a minimum, with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent being preferred. Candidates should have a solid understanding of protection principles and UNHCR’s mandate, which can be enhanced through relevant academic qualifications in social sciences, international relations, or a related field.

Experience:
The position requires at least 2 years of relevant experience in a similar role, particularly in the context of refugee protection and assistance. Candidates with 1 year of experience and a bachelor’s degree may also be considered. Experience in conducting interviews, case management, and working with vulnerable populations is highly desirable.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are Arabic and English, with an excellent command required in both spoken and written forms. Additionally, knowledge of Turkish at least at a B2 level is necessary to effectively engage with government officials and counterparts during voluntary repatriation monitoring activities. Proficiency in Turkish will facilitate communication in various protection contexts and enhance the incumbent's ability to perform their duties effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a local entry and mid-level support role, with a target start date of April 1, 202

• The contract duration is subject to operational needs and satisfactory performance, with no expectation of renewal beyond the initial term. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, including mandatory night shifts and the possibility of work on weekends and official holidays. The incumbent will receive annual leave at the rate of two and a half working days per month, along with sick leave entitlements. Medical coverage is provided through Cigna Health Insurance, which is also available for eligible dependents. The remuneration will be based on the G5 level according to the International Civil Services Commission salary scale. Candidates must comply with local legislation regarding taxation and work permits, and non-Turkish candidates will require clearance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before an offer can be made.