Protection Associate (HPX)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM's mission includes saving lives and protecting people on the move, driving solutions to displacement, and facilitating pathways for regular migration. The organization is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. IOM operates in numerous countries and employs a diverse workforce to address the complexities of migration and displacement.

Job Overview:
The Protection Associate (HPX) position is crucial for the implementation of the Voluntary Return and Advisory Desks, which are designed to assist migrants and refugees facing protection risks. The role involves providing outreach, information, protection counselling, and conducting vulnerability screenings for individuals with specific protection needs. The incumbent will work closely with the Senior Protection Coordinator and the Senior Project Associate (Field Coordinator) to ensure that services are delivered in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and protection principles. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, including victims of trafficking and survivors of gender-based violence. The Protection Associate will also be responsible for maintaining accurate case records and ensuring compliance with data protection and confidentiality standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Protection Associate include:

• Providing outreach and protection counselling to individuals accessing the Voluntary Return and Advisory Desks.
• Conducting protection and vulnerability assessments to identify individuals with specific protection needs.
• Facilitating referrals to appropriate services and following up with beneficiaries to monitor access to assistance.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case records and documentation in compliance with IOM's data protection principles.
• Preparing and tracking administrative documentation related to beneficiary assistance.
• Participating in meetings and training sessions to enhance capacity-building efforts.
• Liaising with Turkish Red Crescent Community Centre staff and other stakeholders to strengthen coordination and access to protection services.
• Reporting protection risks and operational challenges to supervisors.
• Supporting the implementation of project activities and contributing to outreach and awareness-raising initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with three years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, candidates with a school diploma and five years of relevant professional experience will also be considered. Experience in providing protection counselling, vulnerability screening, and case management support in humanitarian or refugee contexts is essential. Familiarity with data protection and confidentiality principles is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Psychology, Social Work, Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or a related discipline. Candidates with a school diploma may be considered if they have extensive relevant experience. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have experience in providing protection counselling, vulnerability screening, and referrals, preferably in humanitarian, migration, or refugee contexts. Experience working with vulnerable populations, including survivors of gender-based violence, victims of trafficking, and unaccompanied minors, is highly advantageous. Candidates should also have experience coordinating with government authorities, UN agencies, and NGOs to facilitate access to protection services. Previous experience in maintaining case records and using case management systems is essential, along with the ability to prepare reports and support project implementation.

Languages:
Fluency in one of the IOM's official languages (English, French, Spanish) is mandatory. For this position, fluency in English, Turkish, and/or Arabic is required, both orally and in writing. Language proficiency will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This job requisition is for six positions, with five located in Gaziantep and one in Sanliurfa. The appointment is subject to funding confirmation and medical fitness certification. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system. Late applications will not be accepted, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.