Protection Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNOPS, which operates under the United Nations framework. UNOPS is dedicated to helping partners implement peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects. Established to provide operational support to the UN and its partners, UNOPS focuses on delivering sustainable solutions in various sectors, including infrastructure, procurement, and project management. The organization employs thousands of staff members across numerous countries, working collaboratively to achieve its mission of supporting the implementation of projects that improve the lives of people in need. UNOPS is committed to promoting sustainable development and ensuring that its operations are aligned with the principles of the United Nations.

Job Overview:
The Protection Assistant position is crucial for enhancing the protection environment for refugees in Thailand, particularly in the camps along the Thai-Myanmar border. This role serves as a vital link between UNHCR and various stakeholders, including refugees, camp leadership, community-based organizations (CBOs), NGOs, and Thai authorities. The incumbent will be responsible for implementing the 'Right to Work' policy, promoting inclusion in state services, and addressing protection risks faced by vulnerable refugees. The position requires extensive fieldwork, proactive engagement with communities, and collaboration with various partners to ensure effective protection interventions and durable solutions for refugees. The Protection Assistant will also be involved in capacity-building activities, data collection, and reporting on protection trends, making this role integral to the success of UNHCR's mission in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Protection Assistant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including: providing technical guidance and support for capacity-building activities; developing training materials and conducting training sessions for CBOs, NGOs, and authorities involved in protection-related activities; monitoring and collecting AGD-sensitive data on the implementation of the 'Right to Work' policy; preparing statistical and analytical reports to maintain accurate information on protection trends; identifying persons of concern with specific protection needs and managing individual cases; coordinating referrals for appropriate interventions or durable solutions; conducting regular field visits to interview and counsel persons of concern; distributing Core Relief Items; accompanying and interpreting for senior staff during meetings; entering and updating data in ProGres and dashboards; drafting routine correspondence and maintaining organized filing systems; monitoring developments in Myanmar and Thailand that may impact UNHCR's work; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a high school diploma with at least one year of relevant experience, or a bachelor's degree. Essential skills include proficiency in computer applications such as MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access). Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in Karen and/or Burmese and/or Karreni. A working knowledge of Thai is essential. Familiarity with UNHCR's administrative and financial rules, procedures, and processes is considered an asset. Completion of UNHCR-specific training activities will also be advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes the completion of secondary education as a minimum requirement, with a preference for candidates holding a bachelor's degree. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of protection issues and the legal frameworks surrounding refugee rights and services.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience in a similar role, particularly in protection-related fields. Candidates with experience working with refugees, NGOs, or in humanitarian settings will be preferred. The role demands a strong understanding of protection principles and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including local authorities and community organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and candidates must also be proficient in Karen and/or Burmese and/or Karreni. A working knowledge of Thai is essential for effective communication in the local context. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA4 level, with a target start date of March 1, 2026, and a contract duration from March 1 to December 31, 202

• The role is based in Mae Sot, Thailand, and is not remote. The position is full-time and involves significant fieldwork, requiring the incumbent to engage directly with refugee communities and various stakeholders. The role is categorized under a hardship level A, indicating a relatively low level of hardship in the duty station.