Border Management Experts

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 worldwide, providing services and advice to governments and migrants, and aims to better harness the full potential of migration to strengthen its support to people on the move.

Job Overview:
The position of Border Management Experts involves conducting a comprehensive needs assessment aimed at identifying existing gaps and priority needs to improve the border management technical capacities in North Macedonia. The selected consultants will work closely with the Ministry of Interior, particularly the Border Police, to modernize and digitalize relevant infrastructure, equipment, systems, and operational procedures. The consultants are expected to work as a team, covering complementary areas of expertise, including border management systems and technical infrastructure. They will be responsible for conducting desk-based reviews, holding consultative meetings, developing work plans, and conducting on-site assessments to evaluate existing capacities and recommend improvements. The role requires a strong understanding of EU standards and national legislation, as well as the ability to produce evidence-based proposals and recommendations for modernization efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Border Management Experts include conducting a desk-based review of national strategies and EU standards, holding consultative meetings with stakeholders, developing a detailed work plan for the needs assessment, conducting on-site assessments of border management capacities, identifying gaps and priority areas for modernization, assessing data governance frameworks and cybersecurity posture, carrying out field visits to border crossing points, preparing a comprehensive assessment report with findings and recommendations, conducting market research on relevant equipment and solutions, and delivering presentations summarizing the assessment results. The consultants will also be responsible for ensuring effective communication and coordination with IOM staff and national authorities throughout the consultancy period.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Studies, Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, Border Management, or a related technical field, along with a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience. They should have proven experience in conducting complex needs assessments in border management, knowledge of EU standards and Schengen requirements, and experience working with law enforcement agencies and government institutions. Strong analytical, reporting, and communication skills are essential, as well as full computer literacy. Knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and AI governance principles is also required.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as Security Studies, Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or Border Management is required for this position. The educational background should be complemented by professional experience in related areas, particularly in border management and technical assessments.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience, particularly in conducting needs assessments in border management or related fields. Candidates should have experience working on the establishment or upgrading of National Coordination Centers under EUROSUR or similar ICT-based border management infrastructures in EU accession countries. Demonstrated experience in engaging with law enforcement and government institutions is also necessary.

Languages:
Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory for this consultancy. Knowledge of the local language will be considered an asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and authorities during the needs assessment process.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be conducted in North Macedonia, with travel required for field visits and meetings. The contract will be paid in two instalments, with the first deliverable due by 9 October 2026 and the final deliverables due by 10 December 202

• IOM covers consultants against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan, but consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational accidents or illnesses. The appointment is subject to medical fitness certification and compliance with residency or visa requirements. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives.