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 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 provides services and advice to governments and migrants, and 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, focusing on various aspects of migration and displacement.

Job Overview:
The Operations Assistant position at IOM in the Netherlands involves supporting the implementation of Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) activities. The incumbent will contribute to providing accurate information to migrants, coordinating with relevant stakeholders, and ensuring effective operational assistance throughout the voluntary return process, particularly for migrants in administrative detention. The role requires collaboration with various operational teams and partners, including medical professionals and airlines, to ensure safe and dignified voluntary returns. The Operations Assistant will assist in monitoring project activities, managing budgets, and drafting reports and correspondence related to project issues. This position is crucial for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of IOM's AVRR programs in the Netherlands.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the implementation and monitoring of project activities related to AVRR.
• Retrieve, compile, summarize, analyze, and present information/data on specific project topics.
• Monitor project budgets, verify the availability of funds, obtain necessary approvals, and update budget-related information.
• Act as the focal point for administrative coordination of project implementation, involving extensive liaison with diverse organizational units and external parties to initiate requests, obtain necessary clearances, and process administrative actions.
• Draft status reports, identifying shortfalls in delivery, bringing them to the attention of the supervisor, and suggesting remedial actions.
• Draft correspondence on project issues; prepare and update reports, briefing notes, graphics, statistical tables, presentations, and other forms of documentation.
• Respond to complex information requests and inquiries; set up and maintain files/records; organize meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Participate in meetings and conferences; assist in coordinating implementation activities with local authorities, partners, UN agencies, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, donors, and other stakeholders relevant to the project.
• Assist in monitoring the work of implementing partners and report non-compliances to the supervisor. 1
• Provide guidance/training to new/junior staff. 1
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 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. Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Candidates should have experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, UN agencies, and NGOs, as well as experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a school diploma with five years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related fields from an accredited academic institution. The degree must be from an institution recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have a solid academic foundation relevant to the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience if they hold a Bachelor’s degree, or five years if they have a school diploma. Experience should include liaising with governmental authorities, national and international institutions, UN agencies, and NGOs. Candidates should also have experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, and other vulnerable groups. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or in a multi-cultural setting is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate complex environments and work effectively with diverse populations.

Languages:
Fluency in English, Dutch, and Arabic is required for this position, both oral and written. All IOM staff members are required to be fluent in one of the IOM's official languages (English, French, Spanish). Proficiency in the required languages will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure candidates can effectively communicate in the necessary languages for the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is open in the AVRR Field Counseling Unit and may be available in various duty stations. Candidates should refer to the provided link for guidance on IOM Job Categories. Any offer made to the candidate 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 only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.