Community-Based Protection Associate

Community-Based Protection Associate

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

October 26, 2026November 26, 2026Chad
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195
  • Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to protecting and assisting refugees and displaced persons worldwide. The organization works closely with governments, NGOs, and other partners to provide life-saving assistance and to promote durable solutions for refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Community-Based Protection Associate plays a crucial role within the Protection Unit of UNHCR. This position involves working directly with communities of concern to identify the risks they face and to leverage their capacities for self-protection. The incumbent is expected to spend a significant portion of their workday outside the office, engaging with communities to build and maintain networks that enhance protection planning and programming. The role requires the development of a community-based protection strategy that is informed by consultations with persons of concern (PoC). The Community-Based Protection Associate will also support the application of community-based protection standards and operational procedures, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of diverse groups within the community are considered in protection efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Community-Based Protection Associate include assisting functional units and senior management in integrating participatory and community-based approaches into the overall protection strategy. The incumbent will maintain relationships with PoC and partners to stay informed about political, social, economic, and cultural developments affecting the protection environment. They will work with host communities to identify opportunities for national civil society involvement and develop community-owned activities addressing various concerns, including social, educational, and health issues. The Associate will assist in analyzing community capacities and risks, support participatory assessments, and help plan and monitor programs with an Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) perspective. Additionally, they will build office capacity for community-based protection through training, support community representation structures, and ensure understanding of UNHCR's accountability commitments. The role also involves acting as an interpreter, contributing to liaison activities, and enforcing compliance with protection policies.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include knowledge of community-based protection principles and methodologies, as well as skills in multi-stakeholder communications and stakeholder management. The candidate should also possess functional skills in IT, particularly in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and computer literacy. Familiarity with UNHCR administrative rules and regulations is also essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a background in social sciences, law, political science, or a related field. While specific certificates are not mandatory, having certifications in development, human rights, or international law is considered advantageous. A degree in social work or community development is also beneficial for this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have relevant experience in community engagement and mobilization, particularly in developing community-based protection strategies. Experience in analyzing protection risks and identifying solutions is crucial. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of working with diverse communities and understanding their needs and capacities.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is French in this case. Knowledge of Arabic is also essential, with an expected overall ability of at least B2 level. Familiarity with local languages is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified at the GS6 grade level and is a regular assignment. The target start date for this position is January 1, 202
  • The role is based in a residential location and is categorized under hardship level E, indicating significant challenges in the living and working conditions. The position is non-family, meaning that the incumbent will not be accompanied by family members. Candidates should be aware that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted, and they may be required to undertake written or oral tests as part of the selection process.
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