Field 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 saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR works in over 130 countries, providing assistance to millions of people worldwide. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR's mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees and to ensure that they can access the protection and assistance they need.

Job Overview:
The Field Associate position is a critical role within UNHCR, primarily focused on field activities related to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Michoacán, Mexico. The incumbent will work under the supervision of a Senior Field Officer or Head of Office, performing various functions that include monitoring the situation of IDPs, collecting relevant data, and reporting findings to supervisors. The role requires regular interaction with local authorities, implementing partners, and the refugee community to ensure effective service delivery and problem resolution. The Field Associate will also contribute to the preparation of reports and assist in administrative tasks, ensuring that the needs of persons of concern are met. This position is vital for strengthening UNHCR's response to internal displacement and requires a proactive approach to engage with various stakeholders and implement community-based protection strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Field Associate include monitoring the situation in the Area of Responsibility (AoR), collecting and reporting data relevant to UNHCR, and overseeing the implementation of UNHCR programs. The incumbent will conduct regular site visits to assess the needs of vulnerable groups, maintain contact with local authorities and implementing partners, and act as an interpreter when necessary. Additionally, the Field Associate will assist in preparing status and progress reports, inform supervisors about issues concerning persons of concern, and support the reception and registration of IDPs. The role also involves negotiating with local authorities and representing UNHCR in project monitoring. The incumbent will be responsible for identifying risks and opportunities impacting objectives and ensuring decision-making aligns with functional responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 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 higher. Essential qualifications include knowledge of business administration, law, or political science. Candidates should also have strong drafting and documentation skills, multi-stakeholder communication abilities, and program management experience. Familiarity with UNHCR's operational context and policies is highly desirable, as is completion of UNHCR learning programs or specific training relevant to the position.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma for candidates with three years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree or higher for those with two years of relevant experience. Relevant fields of education include business administration, law, and political science. Candidates must have their qualifications recognized by institutions accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of relevant experience for those with a High School Diploma or two years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience in field operations, particularly in contexts of internal displacement, is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate operational experience, including monitoring activities, conducting site visits, and supporting program implementation. Familiarity with international protection principles and community-based engagement approaches is also desirable.

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 may be beneficial but is not mandatory. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language of the duty station is required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary appointment with a hardship level of A (least hardship). The target start date is July 1, 2026, and the target end date is December 31, 202

• The position is based in Morelia, Michoacán, and is open to Mexican nationals or candidates holding 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 must adhere to the organization's values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.