iMAC Consultant

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 offices in over 100 countries. The organization works to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified, addressing the needs of migrants and their communities. IOM's mission includes providing services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike, focusing on the protection of vulnerable populations, including victims of trafficking and those affected by forced migration.

Job Overview:
The iMAC Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the operations of the Information and Migration Assistance Centre (iMAC) at the Lao Thai Friendship Bridge. This position is vital in addressing the challenges faced by returning migrants and those seeking employment opportunities in Lao PDR. The consultant will be responsible for delivering safe migration orientation sessions, providing information on employment and skills development, and facilitating referrals to relevant services. The role requires a strong commitment to ethical standards and respect for the socio-cultural differences of migrants and victims of trafficking. The consultant will also contribute to the Government of Lao PDR’s efforts to facilitate safe and regular migration, ensuring that the needs of vulnerable populations are met effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The iMAC Consultant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: delivering Safe Migration Orientation sessions, distributing information on employment and skills development opportunities, and providing referrals to relevant services and partners. The consultant will retrieve, compile, summarize, and disseminate updated information on job opportunities available in local and overseas labor markets, including travel procedures, fees, and required documentation for working abroad. Additionally, the consultant will collect data on the number of beneficiaries receiving services, conduct periodic follow-ups, and monitor outcomes. The consultant will prepare statistics, presentations, weekly updates, monthly reports, and analyses as requested. Other tasks include supporting migrants in identifying and addressing their needs, participating in outreach activities, strengthening iMAC operations, conducting comprehensive data analysis, engaging with government counterparts and NGO partners, developing human-interest stories of beneficiaries, ensuring compliance with IOM’s privacy and data-protection guidelines, attending relevant meetings, managing inquiries, and maintaining organized files and records. The consultant may also be required to undertake duty travel to support project activities and perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in political or social sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, Management, or a related field from an accredited academic institution, along with at least two years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, candidates with a school diploma and a minimum of four years of relevant experience will also be considered. The position requires a strong understanding of migration issues, particularly in the context of Lao PDR, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as political or social sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, Management, or a related discipline is required. Candidates with a school diploma and extensive relevant experience may also apply. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of migration and development issues.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of experience working on development projects is required. Candidates should have experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced people, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups. Proven experience in liaising with government authorities, national and international institutions, UN agencies, and NGOs is essential. Experience in organizing and coordinating workshops, training, and outreach activities is also necessary. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations, government institutions, or NGOs in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage, as is experience working on labor migration and issues affecting vulnerable populations in Lao PDR.

Languages:
Strong written and oral communication skills in both English and Lao are mandatory for this position. Knowledge of the United Nations system is considered an advantage, as it may enhance the consultant's ability to navigate the complexities of international migration and development.

Additional Notes:
The project activities will be based at the Lao Thai Friendship Bridge 1 in Vientiane Capital. The precise workplan and travel requirements will be determined and agreed upon prior to signing the contract. Monthly provisions for telephone and Internet cards will be provided. The position may involve travel as required to support project activities. The consultant is expected to maintain high ethical standards, demonstrate professionalism, and contribute to a collaborative team environment.