Operations Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is recognized as the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM's mission is to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, saving lives and protecting people on the move. The organization drives solutions to displacement and facilitates pathways for regular migration while providing services and advice to governments and migrants. IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various aspects of migration and humanitarian assistance, and has a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The Operations Assistant position at IOM in the Netherlands is crucial for supporting the implementation of Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) activities. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Team Manager and the Senior Operations Assistant, contributing to the effective operational assistance throughout the voluntary return process. This role involves providing accurate information to migrants, coordinating with relevant stakeholders, and ensuring that the needs of migrants, especially those in administrative detention, are met. The position requires a proactive approach to monitoring project activities, managing budgets, and liaising with various organizational units and external parties. The Operations Assistant will also be responsible for drafting reports, responding to inquiries, and organizing meetings and training sessions, making it essential for the candidate to possess strong organizational and communication skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Operations Assistant include:

• Assisting in the implementation and monitoring of project activities related to AVRR.
• Retrieving, compiling, summarizing, analyzing, and presenting information/data on specific project topics.
• Monitoring the project budget, verifying the availability of funds, obtaining necessary approvals, and updating budget-related information.
• Acting as the focal point for administrative coordination of project implementation, which involves extensive liaison with diverse organizational units and external parties to initiate requests, obtain necessary clearances, and process administrative actions.
• Drafting status reports that identify shortfalls in delivery, bringing them to the attention of the supervisor, and suggesting remedial actions.
• Drafting correspondence on project issues and preparing and updating reports, briefing notes, graphics, statistical tables, presentations, and other forms of documentation.
• Responding to complex information requests and inquiries, setting up and maintaining files/records, and organizing meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Participating in meetings and conferences, assisting in coordinating implementation activities with local authorities, partners, UN agencies, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, donors, and other stakeholders relevant to the project.
• Assisting in monitoring the work of implementing partners and reporting non-compliances to the supervisor. 1
• Providing guidance and training to new or junior staff members. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Operations Assistant position include:

• A school diploma with five years of relevant experience; or a Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related fields from an accredited academic institution with three years of relevant professional experience.
• Experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, UN agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
• Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups.
• Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations, non-governmental, or government institutions in a multicultural setting is an advantage.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively and professionally with migrants, partners, and colleagues.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and in line with data protection principles.
• Organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple cases simultaneously.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry, documentation, and record-keeping.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and adapt to diverse operational contexts. 1
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to identify issues and propose practical solutions. 1
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision, as well as collaboratively within a team. 1
• Basic analytical skills to compile information, identify trends, and prepare routine reports. 1
• Flexibility and willingness to conduct fieldwork, including visits to external facilities when required. 1
• Proficiency in standard office software and tools (e.g., MS Office applications and data systems). 1
• Willingness to work irregular and flexible hours, and a valid driving license type B.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Operations Assistant position includes either a school diploma with five years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related areas from an accredited academic institution. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have received their education from recognized institutions.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Operations Assistant position includes a minimum of five years of relevant experience with a school diploma or three years with a Bachelor’s degree. Candidates should have experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national and international institutions, UN agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Additionally, experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups is essential. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or in a multicultural setting is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate complex environments and work effectively with diverse populations.

Languages:
For this position, fluency in English, Dutch, and Arabic is required, both orally and in writing. All IOM staff members are required to be fluent in one of the IOM's official languages, which include English, French, and Spanish. The proficiency of the required languages will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure that candidates can effectively communicate in the necessary languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is open in the Field Counselling Unit - Region North and is available in various duty stations. Candidates should refer to the provided link for guidance on IOM Job Categories. Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation. The selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in a similar position for a period of 24 months. Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, and any residency or visa requirements, as well as security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background, or disabilities. IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process and does not request any information related to bank accounts. Applications must be submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system, and late applications will not be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps in the recruitment process.