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, employing more than 18,000 staff members worldwide. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it strives to provide protection and assistance to those in need.

Job Overview:
The Protection Associate position is crucial for monitoring and implementing protection standards and operational procedures in line with international standards. The incumbent will coordinate with various stakeholders, including local authorities and community actors, to support project activities in the Alta Verapaz region. This role involves engaging with local communities to identify individuals with specific protection needs, providing information and orientation to affected populations, and ensuring that individuals are referred to appropriate services. The Protection Associate will also be responsible for maintaining accurate records in the proGres case management system and preparing reports on activities and progress against targets. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying and addressing protection issues, ensuring that populations of concern are involved in decision-making processes that affect their lives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Protection Associate include monitoring the protection environment, applying international and national laws, providing advice on protection issues, assisting in eligibility and status determination for persons of concern (PoC), and contributing to measures to prevent and reduce statelessness. The incumbent will manage individual protection cases, monitor incidents of refoulement and other protection incidents, and assist in identifying durable solutions for PoC. Additionally, the Protection Associate will facilitate effective information management, participate in capacity-building initiatives for local authorities and NGOs, and ensure compliance with protection policies and standards. The role also involves submitting payment requests for PoC and supporting risk management efforts in the area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma with three years of relevant experience, or a bachelor's degree with two years of relevant work experience. Essential qualifications include knowledge of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, political science, or a related field. Candidates should also have functional skills in IT and familiarity with refugee protection principles and guidelines. The ability to apply protection-related standards and indicators is crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma as a minimum requirement. A bachelor's degree in international law, political science, or a related field is preferred. Relevant certifications in these areas are also beneficial and may enhance a candidate's application.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience for candidates with a high school diploma, or two years of relevant experience for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience in protection-related roles, particularly in humanitarian contexts, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of protection issues and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Mandatory languages for this position include Spanish and English. Knowledge of the local language is also advantageous. Proficiency in English is essential for communication within the UN system and with international partners, while Spanish is necessary for effective engagement with local communities and authorities.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a UNOPS LICA6 role, indicating a level of seniority and responsibility. The target start date for this position is June 1, 2026, and the application deadline is June 4, 202

• The role is not remote and is based in Guatemala City, specifically in the Alta Verapaz region. The position is full-time and may involve travel to various municipalities within the department and beyond. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with UNHCR policies and standards.