Senior Field Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which was established in 195

• The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to provide assistance and support to those in need. The organization's mission is 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 work is guided by the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, and it strives to uphold the dignity and rights of all individuals, particularly the most vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Senior Field Assistant position is a critical role within UNHCR, primarily focused on field activities that support the organization's mission to assist refugees and displaced persons. The incumbent will work under the supervision of a (Senior) Field Officer/Associate, engaging in various functions that include monitoring the implementation of UNHCR programs, assisting in administrative tasks, and acting as an interpreter during field missions. This role requires frequent internal communication with staff members and external interactions with local authorities, implementing partners, and the refugee community. The Senior Field Assistant is expected to maintain a high level of professionalism and integrity while adhering to UNHCR's core values. The position demands a proactive approach to identifying and managing risks, as well as the ability to seize opportunities that align with the organization's objectives. The incumbent will also be responsible for collecting and reporting data relevant to UNHCR's operations, ensuring that the needs of persons of concern are met effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Field Assistant include, but are not limited to: assisting in monitoring the implementation of UNHCR programs, including the delivery of assistance items and infrastructure monitoring; performing administrative tasks such as report preparation and supporting authorized personnel during field missions; acting as an interpreter for routine information exchanges; collecting relevant data and reporting findings to the supervisor; maintaining regular contact with local authorities and implementing partners; assisting in the reception, registration, and provision of assistance to persons of concern; following up on the overall situation of persons of concern in camps and other accommodations; liaising with local authority counterparts and populations of concern; directing unresolved incidents and problems to the supervisor; supporting risk identification and management; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Senior Field Assistant position include a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 1 year of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential functional skills include IT computer literacy, drafting and documentation, and multi-stakeholder communications with partners, government, and community. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical thinking, client and results orientation, and a commitment to continuous learning. Additionally, candidates must possess excellent communication skills and organizational awareness, as well as the ability to plan and organize effectively while managing stakeholder relationships and collaborating within a team.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a minimum, with a Bachelor’s degree or higher being advantageous. While specific fields of education are not mandated, relevant studies in Business Administration, Law, or Political Science are considered beneficial. Completion of UNHCR learning programs or specific training relevant to the functions of the position is also desirable, as it demonstrates a commitment to professional development and understanding of UNHCR's operational context.

Experience:
Candidates for the Senior Field Assistant position should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in a similar role, particularly in humanitarian settings. Experience working with internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, returnees, and host communities is highly valued. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in coordination, assessments, displacement analysis, and stakeholder engagement, as well as knowledge of durable solutions, voluntary returns, protection standards, and accountability frameworks. Skills in data analysis, reporting, information management, and displacement tracking are also essential for success in this role.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language of the duty station is required. Familiarity with the local language is also advantageous, as it facilitates communication with the local population and enhances the effectiveness of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified at the GS5 grade level and is categorized under the General Service staff member type. The role is a regular assignment with a target start date of September 13, 202

• The position is based in Aleppo, Syria, which is classified as a hardship location (E level). The organization emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and empowering work environment, free from harassment and discrimination. UNHCR encourages qualified female applicants to apply and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a written test and/or oral interview as part of the selection process.