Protection Field Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is an intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to become a leading organization in the field of migration, with a mission to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. The organization operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to addressing the challenges of migration and providing support to migrants in need. IOM's work encompasses a wide range of areas including humanitarian assistance, development, and policy advocacy, ensuring that the rights and dignity of migrants are upheld.

Job Overview:
The Protection Field Associate will play a crucial role in implementing IOM Ukraine’s Protection Programming at the oblast or area level. This position requires a deep understanding of protection principles and techniques, as well as adherence to IOM standards and procedures. The associate will work closely with various stakeholders, including NGOs, authorities, and other partners, to ensure effective protection activities are carried out. The role involves providing regular updates to the Protection Field Officer, monitoring NGO projects, assisting in site management, and supporting capacity-building activities. The associate will also be responsible for conducting field visits to assess the needs of vulnerable populations and ensuring that protection services are accessible and effective. This position is vital for enhancing the protection framework and addressing the needs of individuals affected by conflict and displacement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide regular field updates to the Protection Field Officer, ensuring that key information is communicated effectively to improve protection activities and address operational challenges.
• Monitor the implementation of protection efforts by NGO partners, including reporting on protection cases and assistance requests.
• Assist in site management and participate in cluster-level meetings, donor visits, and discussions with relevant partners on protection issues.
• Support the Protection Field Officer in managing individual protection cases, identifying the needs of vulnerable individuals, and coordinating assistance.
• Implement capacity-building activities, including protection mainstreaming and counter-trafficking training, while engaging with community members and updating service mapping tools.
• Contribute to the reporting and administration of field activities, including drafting reports, data collection, and facilitating procurement matters.
• Conduct frequent field visits to IDP sites and conflict-affected areas to gather information and identify gaps in humanitarian service provision.
• Maintain positive relationships with stakeholders, including community leaders and government officials.
• Undertake duty travel as required by program needs. 1
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a High School Degree/Certificate with five years of relevant work experience, or a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, Education, Law, or a related field from an accredited institution with at least three years of relevant work experience. The ideal candidate will have experience managing NGO projects or volunteers, organizing community activities, and familiarity with humanitarian operational responses and protection principles. Previous work experience in governmental, UN, or NGO settings dealing with humanitarian or development work is preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a High School Degree/Certificate with five years of relevant work experience, or a Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field such as Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, Education, or Law from an accredited academic institution, along with at least three years of relevant work experience. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively carry out the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of five years of relevant work experience if they hold a High School Degree/Certificate, or at least three years of relevant work experience if they possess a Bachelor’s Degree. Experience should include managing NGO projects or volunteers, organizing community activities, and familiarity with social work and case management processes. Candidates should also have experience assisting individuals in need and a solid understanding of humanitarian operational responses and protection principles. Previous work experience in governmental, UN, or NGO contexts is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Ukrainian is required, both oral and written. This language proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders, reporting, and documentation. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, but English and Ukrainian are mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Ukraine 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 required 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.