Protection Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1951, with a mission to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM works in over 100 countries and has more than 10,000 employees worldwide. The organization focuses on various aspects of migration, including humanitarian assistance, protection of migrants, and addressing the challenges of migration in a global context. IOM's Protection Division (PXD) specifically aims to reduce protection risks for individuals in vulnerable situations, particularly those exposed to abuse, exploitation, violence, neglect, and deprivation.

Job Overview:
The Protection Assistant will play a crucial role in the IOM's efforts to provide protection and assistance to vulnerable populations. This position involves working directly with beneficiaries to assess their needs, identify goals, and develop tailored assistance plans. The incumbent will be responsible for organizing the delivery of these plans and monitoring their effectiveness in meeting the identified goals. The role requires active participation in outreach efforts to identify eligible beneficiaries for IOM protection services, conducting screenings and interviews to assess protection concerns, and informing individuals about available services. The Protection Assistant will also draft case plans in consultation with beneficiaries, ensuring that services provided are individualized and meet specific needs. Monitoring service provision and evaluating beneficiary progress are essential components of this role, as is maintaining accurate documentation in line with IOM standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Identify beneficiaries eligible for IOM protection and assistance services through outreach and community-based awareness sessions.
• Conduct screenings and interviews with potential beneficiaries to assess protection concerns and eligibility for services.
• Inform individuals about available services, eligibility requirements, and referral pathways.
• Draft case plans in consultation with beneficiaries, specifying services to be provided and objectives.
• Organize and provide necessary services through referrals to IOM units, external partners, and the private sector.
• Monitor service provision to ensure quality and effectiveness in meeting identified goals.
• Follow up on beneficiary progress and outcomes, updating the Senior Project Associate on case progression.
• Complete case files and documentation in accordance with IOM rules and standards.
• Undertake duty travel as required. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• University degree in social work, psychology, law, or a related field with three years of relevant professional experience, or a high school diploma with five years of relevant experience.
• Experience in protection, counter-trafficking, child protection, gender-based violence, or humanitarian affairs.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations and in community-based protection and assistance services.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to work independently, prioritize tasks under pressure, and coordinate with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A university degree in social work, psychology, law, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a high school diploma with significant relevant professional experience may be considered.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant professional experience in protection, counter-trafficking, child protection, gender-based violence, or humanitarian affairs. Experience working with vulnerable populations and in community-based protection services is essential. The ability to manage multiple tasks, work independently, and maintain attention to detail is crucial for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English, Romanian, and Russian is required for all applicants, both oral and written. There are no additional language requirements listed as desirable.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Moldova will be considered. The appointment will be contingent upon medical fitness certification, verification of residency, and compliance with government regulations. Vaccination against COVID-19 is mandatory for IOM personnel. The selection process may be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar roles for 24 months. IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.