UN Volunteer - Livelihoods and Socioeconomic Inclusion

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1950 with a mission to protect refugees and stateless persons worldwide. With a staff of over 15,000 people operating in 130 countries, UNHCR has provided assistance to millions of refugees, returnees, internally displaced, and stateless individuals. The organization focuses on delivering lifesaving support, including shelter, food, clean water, education, and medical care, to some of the world's most vulnerable populations. UNHCR also facilitates the safe return of refugees to their home countries and aids in their integration into local communities or resettlement in third countries when return is not feasible. The agency collaborates with numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) globally to enhance the protection and assistance provided to refugees and internally displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position is situated within the context of UNHCR Mexico, which operates in a dynamic protection environment characterized by a rising number of refugees and asylum-seekers seeking sustainable integration opportunities. The primary focus of this role is to support the implementation of UNHCR’s Local Integration Programme and livelihoods interventions in Aguascalientes, emphasizing employability, access to livelihoods, financial inclusion, and access to essential services. The volunteer will play a crucial role in job matching and labor inclusion processes for refugees and asylum-seekers, ensuring follow-up on employment placements and working conditions. The position also involves engaging with employers and the private sector to foster inclusive hiring practices and strengthen partnerships that facilitate socioeconomic inclusion. The volunteer will contribute to community-based approaches to inclusion, participate in outreach activities, and support the monitoring of livelihoods and integration initiatives. This role is vital for sustaining UNHCR's operational capacity amidst financial constraints and ensuring continuity of key program activities, aligning with broader humanitarian and development priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks under the supervision of the Durable Solutions Officer, including:

• Supporting the implementation of UNHCR’s Local Integration Programme and livelihoods interventions in Aguascalientes, focusing on employability and access to services.
• Assisting in job matching and labor inclusion processes for refugees and asylum-seekers, including follow-up on employment placements and working conditions.
• Mapping companies in priority economic sectors to enhance employer engagement and facilitate inclusive hiring practices.
• Coordinating with implementing partners, civil society organizations, local authorities, and service providers involved in livelihoods and integration services.
• Participating in community outreach and feedback mechanisms to promote inclusion among refugees, asylum-seekers, and host communities.
• Monitoring livelihoods and integration activities, collecting information on results and challenges.
• Preparing inputs for internal reports, donor updates, and presentations related to socioeconomic inclusion.
• Documenting lessons learned and good practices from the Local Integration Programme.
• Supporting UNHCR in liaising with key Japanese stakeholders as needed. 1
• Engaging in UNV activities to strengthen knowledge of volunteerism and contribute to local volunteer initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UN Volunteer position should possess a strong commitment to the mission of UNHCR and demonstrate accountability, adaptability, and flexibility. They should have excellent communication skills, creativity, and the ability to empower others. A solid understanding of the principles of volunteerism and a willingness to engage in continuous learning are essential. The ideal candidate should also exhibit professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment in decision-making. Experience in community engagement, social work, or related fields is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, ideally in fields such as social sciences, international relations, development studies, or a related discipline. A bachelor's degree is typically the minimum requirement, while a master's degree may be preferred for more advanced roles within the organization.

Experience:
Candidates should have prior experience in community development, social inclusion, or related fields, with a focus on working with vulnerable populations such as refugees and asylum-seekers. Experience in project management, coordination with multiple stakeholders, and familiarity with the local context in Mexico will be advantageous. Previous volunteer experience or work with NGOs is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory for this position, given the local context and the need to communicate effectively with refugees, asylum-seekers, and local partners. Proficiency in English is also desirable, as it may be necessary for reporting and liaising with international stakeholders. Knowledge of Japanese could be an asset, given the collaboration with JICA and Japanese stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a UN Volunteer role, which typically involves a commitment to serve for a specified duration, often ranging from six months to one year. The role is full-time and may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate the needs of the program and the communities served. The position is based in Aguascalientes, Mexico, and may involve travel within the region to engage with various stakeholders and communities. Compensation and benefits for UN Volunteers may include a monthly stipend, health insurance, and opportunities for professional development.