Field 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, to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights of refugees and displaced persons, providing them with assistance and solutions to their plight, and advocating for their rights at the national and international levels.

Job Overview:
The Field Associate position is a critical role within UNHCR, primarily focused on field activities related to the organization's mission of protecting and assisting refugees and displaced persons. The incumbent will work under the supervision of a Senior Field Officer or Head of Office, performing a variety of functions that include monitoring the situation in the area of responsibility (AoR), collecting relevant data, and reporting findings to the supervisor. The Field Associate will also be responsible for monitoring the implementation of UNHCR programs, ensuring the delivery of assistance items, and assessing the needs of persons of concern, particularly vulnerable groups. This role requires regular interaction with local authorities, implementing partners, and the refugee community to facilitate effective service delivery and problem resolution. The Field Associate will contribute to the preparation of reports and assist in administrative tasks, ensuring that all activities align with UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Field Associate include: monitoring the situation in the AoR and collecting data relevant to UNHCR; reporting findings to the supervisor; overseeing the implementation of UNHCR programs and the delivery of assistance items; conducting regular site visits to assess the needs of persons of concern; maintaining regular contact with local authorities and implementing partners; acting as an interpreter when required; contributing to the preparation of status and progress reports; assisting in administrative tasks such as report preparation; informing and acting on reports received regarding persons of concern; coordinating with implementing partners to assist in the reception and registration of persons of concern; negotiating with local authorities and partners; representing UNHCR in physical monitoring of projects; supporting risk management and decision-making processes; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Field Associate position include a minimum of three years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Candidates should possess functional skills such as IT literacy, drafting and documentation, multi-stakeholder communications, and program management. Essential qualifications also include a good understanding of protection principles and the ability to identify and refer vulnerable cases. Strong organizational, coordination, and communication skills are necessary to effectively support UNHCR's field activities.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a High School Diploma or equivalent, with a preference for those holding a Bachelor’s degree in fields such as Business Administration, Law, or Political Science. Relevant certifications or licenses in these areas are considered essential for the role. UNHCR recognizes only qualifications obtained from accredited institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience in field-based roles, particularly in humanitarian or development programs. Experience working with vulnerable populations, including refugees and asylum-seekers, is highly desirable. Familiarity with program management processes and reporting standards is an asset, as is experience in monitoring activities and conducting site visits.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is essential for this position. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to draft and communicate effectively in both languages. Knowledge of the local language is also beneficial, particularly for engaging with the refugee community and local authorities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary appointment with a hardship level of A (least hardship) and is intended for family-type assignments. The target start date is July 1, 2026, with an end date of December 31, 202

• The position is based in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, which is characterized by a complex security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security environment and requires a high level of cultural awareness and adaptability. Candidates must be Mexican nationals or hold permanent residency or a valid work permit in Mexico. The selection process will involve shortlisting candidates, who may be required to undergo a written test and/or oral interview. UNHCR maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all applicants are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment.