Expedited: Field Protection Associate

Organizational Context

IOM, established in 1951, is a leading UN agency promoting humane and orderly migration. In South Sudan, IOM's programming spans humanitarian coordination, response, resilience, peacebuilding, transition, and development. The Field Protection Associate role supports integrated programming across these areas, focusing on strengthening protection, gender equality, and inclusion within IOM's humanitarian and development initiatives.

Job Purpose

The Field Protection Associate is crucial for strengthening protection, gender equality, and inclusion within IOM's multi-sectoral humanitarian, development, and peace programs in South Sudan. This role supports the delivery of essential protection and GBV prevention/response services. A key function is building the capacity of IOM teams and partner organizations in critical areas such as GBV risk mitigation, referrals, Psychological First Aid (PFA), and Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA). The position ensures that IOM's activities adhere to the 'Do No Harm' principle, are informed by gender and protection analyses, and actively promote the inclusion of diverse groups, including different ages, genders, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized populations.

Responsibilities

The Field Protection Associate will assist in identifying, analyzing, and prioritizing protection and GBV issues at the field level to support mainstreaming efforts. Responsibilities include supporting the implementation of protection, GBV, and disability inclusion activities, coordinating with other sectors for integrated project outcomes, and compiling regular reports. The role involves liaising with community leaders and relevant actors to foster participation and understanding of program activities. Additionally, the Associate will support protection assessments, service mapping, and the implementation of GBV prevention strategies, including awareness campaigns and dialogue sessions. Operationalizing community-based referral systems, ensuring adherence to guiding principles, and supporting capacity-building initiatives for IOM staff and partners on protection and GBV response services are key duties. The role also includes supporting PSEA activities, monitoring GBV implementing partners, and providing recommendations for service quality improvements.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of experience in humanitarian protection and community stabilization response programming is required. Experience in implementing integrated protection programming in crisis contexts, working with local authorities and partners, and coordinating with cluster systems is essential. Experience working in challenging locations for extended periods is also necessary. Previous experience in South Sudan is an advantage.

Skills

Report writing, analytical skills, MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, communication skills, ability to build trust with communities and partners.

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