Field Assistant

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 and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. 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 and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Field Assistant position is crucial for the effective functioning of the field office, where the incumbent will be responsible for a variety of administrative and operational tasks. This role requires a proactive approach to ensure that the office runs smoothly on a day-to-day basis. The Field Assistant will be expected to manage office maintenance, documentation, and record-keeping, as well as liaising with partners and service providers. Additionally, the role involves providing executive support assistance, which is essential for maintaining operational efficiency. The incumbent must possess basic financial and budgetary skills, including monitoring expenditures and tracking petty cash. Strong IT skills are also necessary, particularly proficiency in standard office software and UNHCR corporate systems. The Field Assistant will play a vital role in ensuring accountability and enabling effective delivery of protection and assistance activities in a challenging field environment, making this position integral to the success of UNHCR's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Field Assistant include assisting in administrative tasks such as preparing reports and meeting authorized personnel, as well as providing support during field missions. The incumbent will act as an interpreter for routine information exchanges and contribute to liaison activities, responding directly to routine queries. The Field Assistant will collect data and information relevant to UNHCR and report findings to the supervisor. Regular contact with local authorities and implementing partners is expected, as well as assisting in the reception, registration, and provision of assistance to persons of concern to UNHCR. The role also involves liaising with local authority counterparts, partners, and populations of concern, directing unresolved incidents and problems to the supervisor. The Field Assistant will support the identification and management of risks, ensuring decision-making is informed by risk assessments, and will raise any issues or concerns to the supervisor or relevant colleagues. Other related duties may be assigned as required.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience for candidates with a High School Diploma, or a Bachelor's degree or equivalent higher education. Essential qualifications include a background in Business Administration, Law, or Political Science. Candidates should possess strong IT skills, particularly in computer literacy, and have the ability to draft and document effectively. Additionally, multi-stakeholder communication skills are essential for engaging with partners, government, and community stakeholders. Completion of UNHCR learning programs or specific training relevant to the functions of the position is desirable but not mandatory.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a High School Diploma or a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Business Administration, Law, or Political Science. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of the role and the operational context in which UNHCR operates. Relevant certifications in the aforementioned fields are also beneficial and may enhance a candidate's application.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 1 year of relevant work experience in a similar role, preferably with UNHCR or in a related field. Experience in administrative support, financial management, and IT-related tasks is essential for success in this position. Familiarity with the operational context of humanitarian work and the ability to navigate challenges in a field environment will be advantageous.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication with local authorities, partners, and populations of concern.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA4 category and is not remote. The target start date for the position is April 1, 202

• The role is full-time, and shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a test and/or interview as part of the selection process. It is important to note that late applications will not be accepted, and all candidates must adhere to the UNHCR's commitment to creating a safe and respectful working environment.