VN-US10-2026-055 Senior Operations Assistant (field Support, Airport)

Organizational Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) supports the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) globally. Within IOM, the Resettlement and Movement Division oversees this support. Specifically, Ports of Entry (POEs) at seven US international airports provide critical assistance to refugees and migrants upon arrival, managing immigration, customs, and onward transportation.

Job Purpose

This Senior Operations Assistant (Field Support, Airport) role is crucial for the effective functioning of the Ports of Entry (POEs) under the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). The position ensures that the movement of beneficiaries is managed safely, with dignity, and in a humane manner. The role involves coordinating teams, liaising with various stakeholders including government agencies and airlines, and ensuring smooth processing of arrivals and departures. By overseeing daily operations, managing schedules, and addressing emergent issues, the incumbent directly contributes to the successful resettlement of refugees and migrants into the United States, upholding IOM's commitment to humanitarian assistance.

Responsibilities

Coordinate a team of up to eight staff members to ensure safe and dignified movement of beneficiaries at assigned airport(s). Act as a liaison between airport operations teams, supervisors, and the IOM Washington DC Movement Operations team. Oversee and monitor field support activities, including documentation verification, airport formalities, escorts, and special needs assistance. Manage the flow of individuals and luggage through arrival and departure procedures, tracking flight data and coordinating with staff for luggage and medical checks. Create weekly shift schedules and assign tasks, ensuring adequate coverage and employing problem-solving for operational challenges. Liaise with government agencies (DHS, CBP, CDC, TSA), airlines, and airport authorities to address issues related to flights, transit, ground transportation, and accommodation. Coordinate responses to unexpected events like medical emergencies and manage schedule changes due to delays. Assist with medical department liaison, provide after-hours support, and serve as a contact for ground transportation and hotels. Report trending incidents, non-compliance, best practices, and lessons learned. Train team members on work management, quality assurance, and conduct. Support staff development through hiring, training, task assignment, and performance feedback. Conduct quality assurance checks on data managed in IOM systems. Undertake duty travel as needed and ensure adherence to SOPs, IOM Standards of Conduct, and data protection rules, reporting any non-compliance.

Work Experience

Prior airport operations experience is a strong advantage. Experience working in a multi-cultural setting is also beneficial. Familiarity with IOM policies, USRAP guidelines, POE SOPs, and IOM systems and tools is highly desirable.

Skills

Self-motivated, objective-driven, ability to work under pressure with minimum supervision. Collaboration and problem-solving skills. High emotional intelligence. Computer literate with Microsoft Office proficiency. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Attention to detail and organizational ability.

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