Senior Protection Associate (IDP)

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• The organization is dedicated to protecting 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. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR also works to improve the lives of refugees and displaced people through various programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Protection Associate (IDP) position is crucial for addressing the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Sinaloa, Mexico. The incumbent will report to the Protection Officer or Senior Protection Officer and may supervise protection staff. The role involves monitoring protection standards and operational procedures, ensuring compliance with international standards, and providing functional support to information management and program staff. The Senior Protection Associate is expected to coordinate timely and effective protection responses, design comprehensive protection strategies, and represent UNHCR externally on protection policies. The position requires strong engagement with communities, local authorities, and partners to ensure that IDPs are involved in decision-making processes that affect their rights and access to solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Senior Protection Associate include staying informed about political, social, economic, and cultural developments affecting the protection environment, applying international and national laws, providing guidance on protection issues, conducting eligibility and status determinations for PoC, and contributing to child protection and education plans. The incumbent will manage individual protection cases, assist in identifying durable solutions for PoC, and facilitate advocacy efforts with partners. Additionally, the Senior Protection Associate will support the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for protection activities, monitor compliance with global protection policies, and recommend payments for individual cases. The role also involves risk management and ensuring that protection responses are adapted to the evolving context in Sinaloa.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma or 2 years of relevant 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. Functional skills required for the position include computer literacy, understanding of protection-related guidelines, and knowledge of refugee protection principles. Candidates should also demonstrate strong operational and coordination skills, as well as the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma for candidates with 4 years of experience or a Bachelor’s degree for those with 2 years of experience. Relevant fields of education include International Law and Political Science. Certifications in these areas are considered essential for the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 4 years of relevant experience for those with a High School Diploma or 2 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience in protection contexts, particularly related to internal displacement, is highly desirable. Familiarity with legal and policy frameworks affecting IDPs, as well as experience in community-based protection and advocacy, is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory, with the ability to draft and communicate effectively in both languages. Knowledge of the local language and the protection environment in Mexico is an asset. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary appointment with a target start date of July 1, 2026, and an end date of December 31, 202

• The position is based in Culiacán, Sinaloa, which is characterized by a complex security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security environment due to organized crime. Candidates must be Mexican nationals or hold permanent residency or a valid work permit in Mexico. The role requires adherence to UNHCR's Code of Conduct and a commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful working environment. The selection process will involve shortlisting candidates, who may be required to undergo a written test and/or oral interview.