Senior Project Associate - Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS)
Organizational Context
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Liberia, funded by the PRM, implements the Global Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) Program. This program assists migrants with irregular status in accessing safe and dignified return to their countries of origin or legal status. The Senior Project Associate - MHPSS role operates under the Chief of Mission and MHPSS Programme Officer, contributing to the implementation of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) activities.
Job Purpose
The Senior Project Associate - Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) plays a crucial role in assisting the MHPSS Programme Officer in implementing MHPSS activities within IOM Liberia. This position directly contributes to enhancing the psychosocial well-being of vulnerable migrants through a range of structured activities, awareness campaigns, recreational events, and information-sharing sessions. The role supports IOM's core expertise in Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR), ensuring that migrants receive comprehensive support, including counselling, travel document assistance, and escorts, facilitating their safe and dignified return. The incumbent's efforts are vital in promoting resilience and recovery among individuals experiencing psychological distress.
Responsibilities
Coordinate multi-layered psychosocial support services, including identification, referral, and follow-up for migrants experiencing distress. Serve as the focal point for MHPSS interventions, overseeing case management and providing guidance on referral mechanisms. Lead administrative coordination for project implementation, liaising with internal and external parties. Develop operational plans based on MHPSS assessment findings to expand access to integrated services. Organize psychoeducational activities focused on stress management, well-being, and social cohesion. Contribute to the development and adaptation of MHPSS training materials for staff and partners. Deliver training on Psychological First Aid (PFA) to staff, stakeholders, and local service providers. Monitor compliance with confidentiality, data protection, and safeguarding standards. Facilitate consultations and focus group discussions with vulnerable populations to inform program design. Promote the integration of cross-cutting issues like protection and gender into MHPSS activities. Maintain quality-controlled activity records and beneficiary databases for monitoring and decision-making. Support the development of M&E tools and generate evidence for program improvement. Prepare comprehensive reports for management and donor requirements.
Work Experience
Required experience includes assessing MHPSS needs in complex emergency/post-conflict settings, providing multi-layered MHPSS services in AVR programs and reception centers, developing MHPSS case plans, conducting triage, and managing case follow-ups. Experience working with psychosocial focal points, translators, migrants, refugees, IDPs, and GBV survivors is essential. Prior work with international humanitarian organizations in a multicultural setting is also necessary.
Skills
Proven ability to establish effective working relationships with diverse populations. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills. Excellent communication and report-writing abilities. Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Knowledge of IASC MHPSS principles and IOM policies is advantageous. Previous participation in IOM's "Psychosocial Interventions in Emergency and Displacement" program is an asset.