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 promote durable solutions for those in need of protection.

Job Overview:
The Protection Associate position is crucial within UNHCR, as it involves monitoring protection standards and operational procedures to ensure effective protection delivery in accordance with international standards. The incumbent will work closely with the Protection Officer or Senior Protection Officer to coordinate timely and effective responses to the needs of populations of concern (PoC). This role requires the Protection Associate to engage with communities, local authorities, and partners to integrate protection methodologies into operational responses across various sectors. The position also emphasizes the importance of involving PoC in decision-making processes that affect their rights and solutions to their challenges. The Protection Associate will contribute to the design of comprehensive protection strategies and ensure compliance with UNHCR's regulatory framework and core values.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Protection Associate include staying informed about political, social, economic, and cultural developments that impact the protection environment. The incumbent will apply International and National Law, as well as UN/UNHCR policies and codes of conduct, to provide advice on protection issues to PoC. Responsibilities also include conducting eligibility and status determinations, contributing to measures to prevent statelessness, and developing child protection and education plans as part of the protection strategy. The Protection Associate will manage individual protection cases, monitor compliance with protection standards, and assist in identifying durable solutions for PoC. Additionally, the role involves facilitating effective information management and participating in capacity-building initiatives for local authorities and NGOs.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Protection 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. Essential functional skills include IT literacy and knowledge of refugee protection principles and frameworks. Candidates should also be familiar with protection-related guidelines, standards, and indicators. The position requires a strong commitment to UNHCR's core values and the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a High School Diploma or a Bachelor’s degree in International Law, Political Science, or a related field. Relevant certifications in these areas are considered essential for the role. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in legal and political frameworks relevant to refugee protection and human rights.

Experience:
The level of experience required for this position is at least three years of relevant work experience for candidates with a High School Diploma, or two years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience in protection-related roles, particularly within humanitarian contexts, is highly desirable. Familiarity with UNHCR's operational procedures and protection standards will be advantageous.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirements for this position include proficiency in Spanish and English, with an expected overall ability of at least B2 level. Knowledge of the local language is also beneficial. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language of the duty station is required, if not English.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a General Service role at the GS6 grade level and is temporary, with a target start date of October 1, 2026, and an end date of December 31, 202

• The role is family-type and is subject to hardship levels as defined by UNHCR. The organization emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation and abuse, and all staff members are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo a written test and/or oral interview.