Senior Protection 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 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 works to promote durable solutions for refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Senior Protection Associate position is crucial for managing protection responses in Azraq Camp, particularly in the context of UNHCR operations. The role involves reporting to the Protection Officer or Senior Protection Officer and may include supervisory responsibilities over protection staff. The incumbent is expected to monitor protection standards and operational procedures, ensuring that they align with international standards. The Senior Protection Associate will coordinate timely and effective protection responses to the needs of populations of concern (PoC) and will be responsible for integrating protection methodologies into operational responses across various sectors. This position also requires the development of a comprehensive protection strategy and external representation on protection doctrine and policy. The role emphasizes the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes affecting their rights and solutions to their issues, necessitating strong relationships with local authorities and partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Senior Protection Associate include staying informed about political, social, economic, and cultural developments that impact the protection environment. The incumbent must apply international and national laws, UN/UNHCR policies, and codes of conduct consistently. They will provide guidance on protection issues to PoC and liaise with authorities for documentation issuance. The role involves conducting eligibility and status determinations for PoC, contributing to child protection and education plans, and managing individual protection cases, including those related to gender-based violence (GBV). The Senior Protection Associate will assist in identifying durable solutions for PoC and contribute to advocacy efforts with partners. They will also facilitate effective information management and participate in capacity-building initiatives for authorities and NGOs. The position requires compliance with global protection policies and standards, as well as risk management and decision-making in the functional area of work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Essential qualifications include knowledge of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, political science, or a related field. Relevant job experience is not specified as essential but is desirable, particularly in areas related to refugee protection and resettlement. Functional skills required include computer literacy and familiarity with protection-related guidelines and standards.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma with significant relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as International Law or Political Science. Certifications in these areas are considered essential for the role, particularly those related to refugee protection principles and frameworks.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience for candidates with a High School Diploma or 2 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience in UNHCR operations, particularly in protection roles, is highly valued. Familiarity with the specific context of Jordan and the protection environment in Azraq Camp is essential for effective performance in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is mandatory, and strong proficiency in English is required for effective communication, coordination, and reporting. Knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA7 category and is not remote. The target start date for the role is April 1, 2026, and the application deadline is March 22, 202

• Only candidates with Jordanian nationality will be considered for this position. The role may involve a written test as part of the selection process, and candidates are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment, adhering to UNHCR's core values and policies.