RSD Associate (UNOPS LICA-6)

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, providing assistance and protection to millions of individuals who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence. The organization works closely with governments, NGOs, and other partners to ensure that refugees receive the support they need and to find durable solutions to their plight.

Job Overview:
The RSD Associate (UNOPS LICA-6) plays a crucial role in overseeing the Refugee Status Determination (RSD) procedures and related activities within the UNHCR operation in Lebanon. This position involves implementing RSD procedures and guidance, conducting interviews with asylum seekers, drafting assessments, and providing counseling to individuals seeking assistance. The RSD Associate collaborates with various stakeholders, including Protection, Registration, and Resettlement colleagues, as well as government authorities and partners, to ensure that RSD procedures are implemented fairly and transparently. The role requires a deep understanding of the legal and operational context surrounding refugee protection in Lebanon, particularly given the significant challenges posed by the large refugee population in the country. The RSD Associate is expected to maintain accurate records, assist in monitoring RSD trends, and contribute to the development of strategies that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the RSD process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The RSD Associate is responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: staying informed about legal, political, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security developments that impact the protection environment; assisting in the development of the RSD strategy and annual planning; providing counseling to asylum seekers and refugees; maintaining accurate records and data related to individual cases; preventing and identifying fraud in RSD processes; conducting research on country of origin information; compiling and analyzing RSD statistics; advocating for fair and efficient RSD procedures; drafting correspondence and reports; and referring cases to other functional units or external partners as necessary. The RSD Associate must also systematically apply an age, gender, and diversity perspective in all assigned functions and support the identification and management of risks related to RSD activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the RSD Associate position must possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, particularly in sensitive contexts involving child protection and gender-based violence. They should have prior experience in Refugee Status Determination or legal aid for refugees, as well as the ability to manage high-volume caseloads while ensuring quality and procedural fairness. Advanced drafting and analytical skills are essential, along with the capacity to work effectively with interpreters and various stakeholders. Formal training in international refugee law or human rights law is highly desirable, as is knowledge of UNHCR case management systems and tools.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for the RSD Associate position is a High School Diploma with three years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree with two years of relevant work experience. While specific fields of education are not mandated, certifications in social work or relevant UNHCR training programs are considered essential qualifications.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience for those with a High School Diploma, or two years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience working with procedures and principles related to Refugee Status Determination, as well as knowledge of international refugee law and human rights law, is highly desirable. Experience in working with vulnerable or traumatized individuals is also beneficial.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is Arabic in Lebanon. Familiarity with local languages is an advantage, particularly for effective communication with asylum seekers and refugees.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a UNOPS LICA-6 role and is not remote. The target start date for the position is April 1, 2026, and the application deadline is February 11, 202

• The role is full-time and involves working in a challenging operational context, given Lebanon's status as a host country for a significant number of refugees. The RSD Associate will be expected to adhere to UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity while performing their duties.