Durable Solutions Associate

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, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of international protection and humanitarian assistance, focusing on providing life-saving support and advocating for durable solutions for displaced populations.

Job Overview:
The Durable Solutions Associate position is critical in the context of Lebanon, which hosts a significant number of refugees, particularly from Syria. The incumbent will be responsible for implementing the Inter-Agency Voluntary Return Action Plan, which aims to facilitate the safe and dignified return of up to 400,000 Syrian refugees in 2025 and an additional 300,000 in 202

• This role involves managing and supervising a team of caseworkers who will process return assessments and act as the Team Leader for return processing at designated Return Centers. The Durable Solutions Associate will also provide training and capacity development to caseworkers and social workers on principles and guidance related to voluntary repatriation. The position requires strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with local authorities, partners, and the refugee community, ensuring that the return process is conducted in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of the refugees.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Durable Solutions Associate will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: providing counseling to refugees and persons of concern to identify appropriate durable solutions; conducting interviews for voluntary repatriation and preparing necessary documentation; updating electronic databases for resettlement and local integration; preparing statistical and ad-hoc reports; managing risks and seeking opportunities impacting objectives; and ensuring timely processing of documentation for persons of concern. The incumbent will also be responsible for establishing and maintaining effective relationships with local authorities, advocating for the implementation of policies related to exit formalities, and conducting missions to Return Centers and border crossing points as required. Additionally, the Durable Solutions Associate will compile regular reports on the return program and operational challenges, ensuring that all activities align with UNHCR's protection principles and policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Durable Solutions Associate position must possess strong knowledge of UNHCR's protection principles and policies, technical skills in protection case management, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Previous experience in protection case management, particularly in durable solutions, is highly desirable. The ability to manage staff and work in large teams is also essential. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism and commitment to achieving positive outcomes for forcibly displaced and stateless persons. Skills in data analysis, drafting reports, and stakeholder management are crucial, as well as political awareness and the ability to navigate the complex socio-political landscape of Lebanon.

Educational Background:
The position requires a minimum of a High School Diploma with three years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree with two years of relevant work experience. While specific fields of education are not mandated, candidates with backgrounds in social sciences, international relations, or humanitarian studies may find their education particularly relevant to the role.

Experience:
The Durable Solutions Associate position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience for candidates with a High School Diploma, or two years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience in protection case management, particularly in the context of durable solutions, is highly desirable. Candidates should also have experience in managing staff and working collaboratively with local authorities and partners.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is Arabic in Lebanon. Familiarity with additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with diverse refugee populations.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA6 category and is not remote. The target start date for the position is July 1, 2025, and the deadline for applications is June 15, 202

• The role is full-time and involves working in a complex and sensitive environment, requiring a high level of political, cultural, and social awareness. The incumbent will be expected to adhere to UNHCR's Code of Conduct and policies on prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse.