Protection Caseworker, AVR Component 2

Organizational Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), established in 1951, is a leading UN agency promoting humane and orderly migration. It works with partners to save lives, protect people on the move, and facilitate regular migration pathways. The organization fosters an inclusive and supportive workplace. This role operates within the Global Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program, ensuring safe and dignified returns for migrants.

Job Purpose

The Protection Caseworker, AVR Component 2, plays a crucial role within IOM's Global Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program. This position is responsible for ensuring that the return of migrants is conducted in a safe, dignified, and consensual manner. The caseworker will directly engage with migrants to identify their needs, provide essential case management services, and coordinate referrals to specialized support. By ensuring the protection and well-being of individuals throughout the return process, the role contributes to IOM's mandate of promoting humane migration and providing effective solutions for displaced persons. The position operates under the direct supervision of the Protection & Liaison Officer.

Responsibilities

The Protection Caseworker will conduct individual protection screenings upon arrival, identifying vulnerabilities and risks, including those related to GBV, human trafficking, and child protection. They will provide comprehensive case management, ensuring service delivery, monitoring progress, and coordinating referrals to legal, health, and psychosocial services. The role involves assisting in the implementation of safe post-arrival assistance, maintaining privacy and consent, and coordinating with relevant authorities. Communication with beneficiaries will be key, ensuring clear and culturally appropriate messaging. The caseworker will maintain accurate data in case management systems, coordinate with operational staff and external partners to enhance referral networks, and assist in report preparation and protection assessments. Duty travel within the Caribbean may be required.

Work Experience

Required experience includes protection case management in humanitarian or migration contexts, particularly for vulnerable groups like GBV survivors, trafficking victims, and at-risk children. Experience working with individuals with complex needs, such as returnees or deported migrants, is essential. The role also requires experience in referrals and coordination with local protection actors, NGOs, and government services. Experience with IOM or other UN agencies, especially in AVR programs, is preferred.

Skills

Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel) and case management tools like MiMOSA is essential. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills are required to interact respectfully with migrants, establish effective working relationships across diverse backgrounds, and deliver assistance in challenging conditions. The ability to adapt, exercise good judgment, and communicate effectively both verbally and in writing for case notes and reports is crucial. Knowledge of IOM and inter-agency protection standards is also important.

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