Senior Project Associate (Counter-Trafficking and Criminal Justice)
Organizational Context
IOM, a UN-related organization established in 1951, promotes humane and orderly migration. In Viet Nam, IOM supports the government and civil society in counter-trafficking efforts across prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnership. This role, within the Immigration and Border Governance portfolio, focuses on strengthening victim identification, referral systems, criminal justice responses to trafficking and smuggling, and addressing emerging forms of trafficking.
Job Purpose
The Senior Project Associate (Counter-Trafficking and Criminal Justice) supports the coordination, management, and technical delivery of projects aimed at enhancing Viet Nam's counter-trafficking and criminal justice response. The role contributes to victim-centred, rights-based, and trauma-informed approaches, supports capacity development for law enforcement and judicial actors, facilitates inter-agency coordination, and promotes evidence-based programming and knowledge management. This position operates under the supervision of the National Programme Officer (Border Governance) and in close coordination with relevant programme units, aligning with IOM standards, donor requirements, and national priorities.
Responsibilities
Lead and coordinate daily project implementation, including work planning, partner coordination, and monitoring activities. Research, analyze, and present information on trafficking in persons, migrant smuggling, and related criminal justice issues to inform programming. Monitor budget expenditures and ensure compliance with IOM policies and donor requirements. Plan and deliver capacity-building activities and workshops for government counterparts, focusing on victim-centred and trauma-informed approaches. Maintain liaison with government agencies, UN bodies, NGOs, and donors to foster inter-agency cooperation and referral pathways. Coordinate the preparation of reports, briefing notes, and project proposals. Contribute to the development and rollout of operational tools, standard operating procedures, and training materials. Supervise and provide guidance to reporting staff.
Work Experience
Demonstrated experience in counter-trafficking, migrant protection, border governance, or criminal justice programming, preferably in Viet Nam or similar contexts. Experience working with or supporting government counterparts (law enforcement, judiciary, social protection) is essential. Experience in developing and delivering capacity-building programs and operational tools is required. Familiarity with victim identification, protection, and criminal justice processes is advantageous.
Skills
Strong coordination, analytical, drafting, facilitation, stakeholder engagement, and reporting skills. Ability to work sensitively with diverse partners on complex protection and criminal justice issues. Knowledge of victim-centred, trauma-informed, and rights-based approaches to criminal justice responses.