Senior Operations Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, employing more than 18,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it strives to promote solutions for the plight of refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Senior Operations Associate will play a crucial role in the UNOPS Integration Project and the Centro Multiservicios de Tapachula (CMS) Phase II construction project. This position requires a high level of operational leadership and coordination, ensuring that all aspects of the projects are executed in compliance with established timelines, budgets, and quality standards. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing the operational, financial, administrative, and reporting aspects of the projects, which are vital for the effective implementation of asylum procedures and integration services for refugees and asylum seekers in Mexico. The role demands strong judgment and the ability to navigate complex workflows and multi-actor coordination in a politically sensitive environment. The Senior Operations Associate will work closely with various stakeholders, including UNHCR, UNOPS, and local government entities, to ensure that the projects align with operational requirements and service delivery needs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Operations Associate include:

• Project Coordination and Execution: Act as the primary operational focal point for the UNOPS Integration Project and CMS Phase II, coordinating and monitoring the full project lifecycle from planning to closure.
• Financial Monitoring and Reporting: Monitor project expenditures and ensure accurate financial reporting to UNHCR and UNOPS.
• Liaison and Stakeholder Management: Serve as the main operational contact with COMAR and other government counterparts, facilitating coordination between construction works and operational actors.
• Compliance, Risk and Quality Assurance: Ensure compliance with UNHCR, UNOPS, and donor policies, contributing to risk identification and mitigation planning.
• Planning and Strategic Support: Contribute to operational planning and provide analytical inputs to senior management.
• Other Responsibilities: Perform additional duties as required to support UNHCR-UNOPS operations in Tapachula.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience in operations, programme management, or infrastructure projects, or 2 years with a Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in managing complex projects, particularly those involving construction or large-scale service delivery. Proficiency in financial monitoring and reporting in humanitarian or development contexts is essential. Candidates should also possess strong communication and coordination skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multi-stakeholder environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a High School Diploma with 4 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with 2 years of relevant work experience in fields such as Business Administration, Economics, Political Science, Law, Engineering, or Architecture. Educational qualifications must be from institutions accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience in operations, programme management, or infrastructure projects. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree can qualify with 2 years of relevant experience. Experience in managing complex projects, particularly in humanitarian or development contexts, is highly desirable. Familiarity with UNHCR or UNOPS operations is an asset, as is experience working with government counterparts in sensitive operational contexts.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Spanish is mandatory, with a minimum B2 level required for both languages. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, but English and Spanish are essential for effective communication in this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a UNOPS LICA7 role, with a target start date of March 1, 202

• The position is not remote and is based in Tapachula, Mexico. Candidates must be Mexican nationals or hold permanent residency or a valid work permit in Mexico. The role offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including salary, allowances, comprehensive medical insurance, and participation in the UN pension scheme. The application deadline is February 5, 2026, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.