Senior Protection Assistant (Arabic-speaking)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR Türkiye, which is part of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Established to protect and support refugees and asylum-seekers, UNHCR Türkiye operates in various regions to ensure that individuals in need of international protection can access essential services. The organization has a significant presence in Türkiye, particularly in areas with high concentrations of vulnerable populations, and works closely with the Government of Türkiye to enhance the efficiency of the refugee response. UNHCR Türkiye has field offices, including a Sub-Office in Gaziantep, and covers multiple provinces hosting a large number of refugees. The organization is committed to monitoring voluntary returns and providing assistance to those in need, reflecting its mission to uphold the rights and dignity of refugees.

Job Overview:
The Senior Protection Assistant (Arabic-speaking) position is crucial for supporting UNHCR's voluntary return monitoring activities in Gaziantep. The incumbent will be responsible for conducting interviews with refugees considering voluntary return to their home country, ensuring that they are fully informed of their rights and options. This role requires effective communication skills to engage with individuals of concern and to document the process in accordance with UNHCR standards. The Senior Protection Assistant will also participate in case management, prepare case summaries, and contribute to protection reporting. The position demands flexibility, as it may involve working during night shifts, weekends, and official holidays, depending on operational needs. The incumbent will work closely with local authorities and partners to facilitate the protection of refugees and asylum-seekers, ensuring that their needs are met and that they receive the necessary support.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Protection Assistant include: conducting voluntary return interviews to assess the voluntariness of returns; ensuring individuals are informed of their rights and options; detecting protection concerns and documenting them accurately; participating in counselling sessions and updating the protection database; preparing weekly follow-up lists and contributing to protection reporting; assisting in interpreting during field visits and community consultations; providing translation of relevant documents; participating in protection activities such as trainings and workshops; and supporting other tasks as assigned by the supervisor. The role requires strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and a solid understanding of protection principles and UNHCR's mandate.

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, collaboration, commitment to continuous learning, and client orientation. Proficiency in MS Office applications and relevant data entry systems is essential. Candidates should possess advanced problem-solving and analytical thinking skills, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to handle confidential information under pressure. Familiarity with UNHCR protection standards and refugee law is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma as a minimum, with a bachelor's degree or equivalent preferred. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of refugee protection and the legal frameworks surrounding it.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in a similar role, or 1 year of experience if the candidate holds a bachelor's degree or higher. This experience should ideally involve working with refugees or in a protection-related field, demonstrating the ability to handle sensitive situations and provide support to vulnerable populations.

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 a B2 level is necessary to effectively perform duties, particularly in discussions and negotiations with government officials and interactions with various stakeholders in protection contexts.

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 contract period. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, including mandatory night shifts and the possibility of weekend work. Leave entitlements include annual leave and sick leave, along with medical coverage provided by Cigna Health Insurance. The remuneration will be based on the International Civil Services Commission salary scale, specifically at the G4 or G5 level as applicable. Non-Turkish candidates must obtain clearance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before an offer can be made, and they are required to upload valid residence permits with their applications.