Project Associate - Reintegration

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is recognized as the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration. IOM is dedicated to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society. The organization operates globally, with a mission to facilitate safe and dignified return and readmission, as well as sustainable reintegration of migrants. IOM's work is guided by the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), which emphasizes the importance of comprehensive approaches to migration management. IOM's reintegration programs aim to support various categories of migrants, including stranded migrants, irregular migrants, and those in vulnerable situations. The organization has a presence in multiple countries and regions, focusing on the needs of migrants and their communities.

Job Overview:
The Project Associate - Reintegration position is crucial for the implementation of IOM's reintegration initiatives in Ethiopia, particularly in the Jimma zone of the Oromia region. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Programme Officer (Return and Reintegration) and the National Officer (Reintegration). This role involves supporting the reintegration team in delivering assistance to returnees and ensuring that their reintegration is sustainable. The candidate will be responsible for conducting beneficiary assessments, developing individual reintegration plans, and providing various forms of support, including livelihoods assistance and vocational training. The position requires close collaboration with local communities, authorities, and service providers to ensure that reintegration efforts are responsive to local needs and market conditions. The Project Associate will also play a key role in monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of reintegration activities, ensuring that they align with IOM's objectives and the needs of the beneficiaries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Associate include conducting beneficiary assessments and developing individual reintegration plans tailored to the needs of returnees. The candidate will deliver and follow up on individual reintegration assistance, which encompasses livelihoods support, vocational training, and business development assistance. Maintaining accurate beneficiary case files and updating databases and tracking tools is essential. Regular monitoring and follow-up visits to assess the progress of beneficiaries, identify challenges, and document outcomes are also part of the role. The Project Associate will support the implementation of Community-Based Reintegration (CBR) activities, participate in community planning processes, and assist in economic inclusion initiatives. Field missions related to beneficiary support, local procurement, and training delivery will be required. The candidate will engage in community awareness-raising activities and compile monitoring data, success stories, and lessons learned. Additionally, the Project Associate will prepare routine reports and perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma with five years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree in fields such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, or Law, along with three years of relevant professional experience. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Experience working with migrants, refugees, and vulnerable groups is essential, as is the ability to establish strong working relationships with government counterparts and local partners. Experience in return and reintegration programs, particularly in the context of Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) schemes, is highly desirable. Previous experience with UN agencies or NGOs is preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma with extensive relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited institution. The degree should be in areas such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, or Law. Candidates must have graduated from institutions recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that their educational qualifications meet international standards.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have significant experience working closely with migrants, refugees, and other vulnerable populations. This includes providing counseling and establishing referral pathways for individuals in need. Proven experience in return and reintegration programs, particularly those related to AVRR schemes, is crucial. Candidates should also have experience in livelihood programming or protection initiatives, as well as a demonstrated ability to collaborate with various stakeholders, including government entities and NGOs. Previous work with international organizations or UN agencies is an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Amharic is mandatory for this position, both in oral and written forms. All IOM staff members are required to be proficient in one of the organization's official languages. Additionally, a working knowledge of other Ethiopian languages, particularly Afaan Oromo and/or Tigrigna, is desirable. Language proficiency will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and oral assessments to ensure candidates meet the necessary communication standards.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to funding confirmation, and the selection process may be used to fill similar roles in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar positions for a period of 24 months. The appointment will be contingent upon medical fitness certification, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that contradicts the organization's aims, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.