Protection Caseworker Associate
Organizational Context
IOM, a UN-related organization established in 1951, promotes humane and orderly migration. The IOM Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) focuses on safeguarding the rights of individuals, working with states to reduce risks and uphold rights. This role supports the delivery of safe and dignified migrant assistance based on informed consent.
Job Purpose
The Migrant Protection Caseworker Associate will operate under the supervision of the Migrant Protection Officer and Coordinator within the IOM Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The primary purpose of this role is to ensure that migrant assistance is delivered safely, with dignity, and based on the migrants’ free, prior, and informed consent. The position contributes to IOM's approach to protection, which aims to safeguard individual rights in line with international standards. The caseworker will provide essential support in delivering needs-based post-arrival assistance, ensuring that migrants' rights are upheld and their needs are met throughout the assistance process.
Responsibilities
Conduct individual protection screenings upon arrival to identify vulnerabilities and risks, documenting needs and developing case plans. Provide comprehensive case management services, including follow-up, ensuring timely delivery of post-arrival assistance, and coordinating referrals to specialized services (legal, health, psychosocial, GBV, child protection). Assist in implementing safe and dignified post-arrival assistance, ensuring privacy, confidentiality, and informed consent, and coordinating with relevant authorities. Maintain accurate data collection and case notes in IOM’s case management systems, adhering to data protection standards. Coordinate with the protection team to ensure efficient service provision and escalate operational challenges. Participate in protection coordination forums and collaborate with partners to enhance referral networks. Assist in preparing reports, case summaries, and contributing to protection assessments and monitoring. Undertake duty travel for field visits and service monitoring as required.
Work Experience
Requires experience in protection case management, particularly for vulnerable groups such as GBV and human trafficking survivors, and at-risk children, within humanitarian or migration contexts. Experience working with individuals with complex needs, including returnees or deported migrants, is essential. Proven experience in referrals and coordination with local protection actors, NGOs, or government services is necessary. Experience with IOM or other UN agencies is preferred.
Skills
Knowledge of IOM and inter-agency protection standards and operational guidelines, including Case Management Guidelines. Strong interpersonal skills for respectful interaction with migrants, and proven ability to build effective working relationships. Adaptability, good judgment, and the ability to deliver assistance in challenging conditions. Good written and verbal communication skills for case notes and reports. Proficiency in MS Office and case management tools.