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International Organization for Migration

Expedited: Field Protection Associate

Malakal, South Sudan; Bentiu, South SudanGrade G-5Special Short Term Graded (Up to 9 months)IOM
9 days leftPosted Aug 3, 2026

Introduction

Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations and the leading UN agency in the field of migration. Working closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners, IOM promotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It saves lives and protects people on the move, drives solutions to displacement, and facilitates pathways for regular migration, while providing services and advice to governments and migrants.

IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. By creating such an environment, IOM aims to better harness the full potential of migration and strengthen its support to people on the move.

IOM invites candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process when required. Learn more about IOM’s workplace culture at IOM workplace culture | International Organization for Migration
Applications are welcome from internal and external candidates. For all IOM vacancies, applications from qualified and eligible first-tier candidates are considered before those of qualified and eligible second-tier candidates in the selection process. For the purpose of this vacancy, internal candidates are considered as first-tier candidates.

Organizational Context and Scope

IOM in South Sudan has a broad range of programming centered around three broad areas: Humanitarian Coordination and Support; Humanitarian response and Resilience; and Peacebuilding, Transition, and Development. Humanitarian Coordination and support include leading/co-leading the Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) and Shelter and Non-Food Items (NFI) Clusters, Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and management of WASH and Shelter and NFI Core-pipelines, Humanitarian Hubs and common transport services. Humanitarian response and Resilience include CCCM, WASH, Shelter & NFI, Health, Protection, Gender equality and inclusion, Mental health and Psychosocial support and the Management of a Rapid Response Fund. Under Peacebuilding, Transition and Development, IOM South Sudan implements programming on Housing, Land and Property Page issues, Transition and Recovery, Transhumance conflict prevention, Community-based violence reduction, Community development and Migration Management.

The Field Protection Associate will support to strengthen protection, gender equality, and inclusion mainstreaming and integrated programming within IOM’s humanitarian multi-sectoral response, development, and peace programs. The position is also expected to support the delivery of protection, GBV prevention and response programming and build capacity of IOM’s team and partner organizations on Protection and GBV Risk Mitigation, Protection and GBV referrals, Psychological First Aid (PFA), and PSEA.

The Field Protection Associate position is to support IOM both specialized and non-specialized protection sectors so that design and implementation of IOM activities adhere to the Do No Harm principle, informed by a gender and protection analysis, and that diversity and inclusion of different ages, genders, persons with disabilities and other marginalized groups is promoted.

  • Assist with the identification, analysis and prioritization of Protection and GBV issues with the different sectors at the field level to support in protection/GBV mainstreaming under the Sudan Response.
  • Support the implementation of Protection, GBV and Disability Inclusion activities, coordinate with the other sectors to achieve the intended protection outcomes for integrated projects and compile regular reports.
  • Liaise and build partnerships with block leaders, chiefs, representative groups (women, youth, persons with disabilities etc.), community leaders and other relevant actors to encourage participation in, support for and a better understanding of the programme activities

Support the implementation/strengthening of Protection, GBV and disability inclusion mainstreaming in all operations.

  • Support the implementation of protection assessments and service mapping in operational areas.
  • Support the implementation of GBV prevention/gender transformative approaches including campaigns, community awareness and conducting dialogue sessions with the community.
  • Operationalize community-based referral systems ensuring adherence to protection and GBV guiding principles and stigma reduction approaches.
  • Support the implementation of capacity building for Protection and GBV response services with IOM and partner organizations including for case management, psychosocial support, WGFSs, referrals, clinical management of rape services.
  • Assist with the identification, analysis and prioritization of Protection and GBV issues with the different sectors at the field level to support in protection/GBV mainstreaming under the Sudan Response.
  • Support the implementation of Protection, GBV and Disability Inclusion activities, coordinate with the other sectors to achieve the intended protection outcomes for integrated projects and compile regular reports.
  • Liaise and build partnerships with block leaders, chiefs, representative groups (women, youth, persons with disabilities etc.), community leaders and other relevant actors to encourage participation in, support for and a better understanding of the programme activities

Support the implementation/strengthening of Protection, GBV and disability inclusion mainstreaming in all operations.

  • Support the implementation of protection assessments and service mapping in operational areas.
  • Support the implementation of GBV prevention/gender transformative approaches including campaigns, community awareness and conducting dialogue sessions with the community.
  • Operationalize community-based referral systems ensuring adherence to protection and GBV guiding principles and stigma reduction approaches.
  • Support the implementation of capacity building for Protection and GBV response services with IOM and partner organizations including for case management, psychosocial support, WGFSs, referrals, clinical management of rape services.
  • In close coordination with the PSEA Officer, support field-level implementation of PSEA prevention, mitigation and response activities, in line with the PSEA Action Plan.
  • Conduct timely and accurate monitoring of project activities for GBV implementing partners.
  • Support regular monitoring and provide recommendations to address gaps in the quality of health, case management and psychosocial support, GBV referrals for GBV survivors.
  • Support the development and capacity building of outreach workers on Protection, Disability Inclusion as well as GBV awareness and prevention materials and implementation of activities.
  • Support regular, accurate and timely reporting on activities.

Support coordination and maintain good relations with other GBV, PSS and Health actors.

  • Perform such other duties as may be assigned.

Education

University degree in social work, Social Sciences, Psychology or a related field from an accredited academic institution, with at least three years of relevant professional experience

  • School diploma from an accredited academic institution, with at least five years of relevant professional experience.
Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience

  • A minimum of three years’ experience in humanitarian Protection and community stabilization response programming.
  • Experience in implementing integrated protection programming in crisis and conflicted contexts.
  • Working experience with local authorities and partners in provision of services to people affected by displacement
  • Experience and ability working in difficult locations for extended periods of time.
  • Experience in coordination and collaboration with the existing cluster systems.
Previous experience in the same role within South Sudan is an added advantage.
  • Good report writing and analytical skills.
  • Good computer skills: Knowledge of MS Word, Excel and Power Point Presentations
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to build trust with affected communities, government counterparts, humanitarian partner organizations.

Languages

Fluency in English is required. Working knowledge of Arabic and local languages is an advantage.

Required Competencies

IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.
Values - all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these five values:
Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.
Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.
Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.
Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.
Core Competencies – behavioural indicators Level 1
Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.
Accountability: Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.
Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.
Managerial Competencies – behavioural indicators Level 2, if with direct reports
Leadership: Provides a clear sense of direction, leads by example and demonstrates the ability to carry out the Organization’s vision. Assists others to realize and develop their leadership and professional potential.
Empowering others: Creates an enabling environment where staff can contribute their best and develop their potential.
Building Trust: Promotes shared values and creates an atmosphere of trust and honesty.
Strategic thinking and vision: Works strategically to realize the Organization’s goals and communicates a clear strategic direction.
Humility: Leads with humility and shows openness to acknowledging own shortcomings.

Notes

Please refer to this link for guidance on IOM Job Category.

Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation.

This selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible to be appointed in a similar position for a period of 24 months.

Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, security clearances.

IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities.

IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training or other fee). IOM does not request any information related to bank accounts.

IOM only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system (for internal candidates link official source link). The online tool also allows candidates to track the status of their application.

No late applications will be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

For further information and other job postings, you are welcome to visit our website: IOM Careers and Job Vacancies

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