Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include over 173 member states and operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the needs of vulnerable populations, including refugees and displaced persons. IOM's mission is to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified, and it works closely with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to achieve this goal.

Job Overview:
The Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) activities in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. This position involves working under the supervision of the Programme Coordinator - Emergency Health and the Project Officer (MHPSS) to enhance the capacity of local systems in providing MHPSS services. The officer will be responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring MHPSS project activities, ensuring they align with program objectives and standards. The role requires a strong focus on community-based approaches, addressing the needs of both Rohingya refugees and host communities, and adhering to established guidelines and best practices in MHPSS. The officer will also be involved in capacity building initiatives, including training and administrative coordination of field staff, to ensure effective delivery of mental health services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Officer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the planning, implementation, and monitoring of MHPSS project activities in Cox's Bazar, ensuring alignment with program objectives and standards.
• Facilitating the implementation of integrated healthcare community-based MHPSS activities, ensuring they are responsive to the needs of the Rohingya refugees and host communities.
• Identifying gaps and opportunities in MHPSS activities and assisting in implementing interventions to address these needs, including organizing refresher trainings.
• Providing regular monitoring and evaluation of activity progress, preparing field update reports, and ensuring accurate data collection and reporting processes.
• Coordinating with MHPSS-related counterparts, sector partners, and government counterparts to enhance collaboration and service delivery.
• Collaborating with implementing partners on MHPSS activities, providing guidance and facilitating linkages.
• Responding to information requests related to MHPSS activities and maintaining organized records.
• Participating in meetings and conferences to promote synergy with other humanitarian sectors and stakeholders.
• Providing technical support and guidance to field staff and partners on MHPSS interventions. 1
• Conducting regular field visits to monitor the quality of MHPSS interventions and preparing detailed reports on activities and outcomes. 1
• Undertaking duty travel and field evaluations as required, and assisting with any other tasks related to MHPSS project activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma with seven years of relevant professional experience, or a Bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology or a related field with five years of relevant experience. Additionally, candidates should have experience supporting the implementation of mental health and psychosocial activities, particularly in contexts involving migrants. Knowledge of MHPSS approaches in emergencies, global and national guidelines, and best practices in mental health is essential. Strong organizational skills, the ability to manage multiple tasks under time constraints, and excellent reporting and communication skills are also required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is necessary, along with the ability to maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes either a high school diploma with extensive relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology or a related field. The emphasis is on having a strong foundation in psychology and counseling, which is critical for effectively addressing mental health challenges in emergency settings.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in the field of mental health and psychosocial support, particularly in humanitarian contexts. Candidates should have a demonstrated interest and knowledge in MHPSS, with experience in project management and familiarity with international standards and donor regulations being advantageous. Experience in liaising with governmental authorities and other stakeholders in the humanitarian sector is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for all applicants. Additionally, a working knowledge of local languages such as Bangla and Rohingya is considered an advantage, as it facilitates better communication with the communities served.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, and may involve travel to other parts of the region as required. The role is full-time and focuses on supporting both refugees and host communities. While the specific contract duration is not mentioned, candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that may require flexibility in response to the evolving needs of the humanitarian crisis.