Protection Caseworker
Organizational Context
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a UN agency promoting humane and orderly migration. The Global Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program ensures safe, dignified returns and provides post-arrival assistance. This Protection Caseworker role, based in Kingston, Jamaica, operates under the AVR program, reporting to the Programme Coordinator and Chief of Mission.
Job Purpose
The Protection Caseworker is responsible for implementing the Global Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program, ensuring that migrant returns are safe, dignified, and based on informed consent. The role involves providing essential case management services, including individual protection screening, developing case plans, and coordinating referrals to specialized services. This position directly contributes to protecting vulnerable migrants, facilitating their safe return, and offering necessary post-arrival support, thereby upholding IOM's mandate to assist people on the move and promote orderly migration.
Responsibilities
Conduct individual protection screenings for migrants, identifying vulnerabilities and risks, and developing individualized case plans. Provide comprehensive case management, including follow-up, service delivery monitoring, and referrals to specialized services (legal, health, psychosocial, GBV, child protection). Assist in implementing safe and dignified post-arrival assistance, ensuring privacy and consent, and coordinating with authorities. Communicate effectively with beneficiaries, explaining available assistance clearly and appropriately. Maintain accurate data collection and case notes in IOM’s systems, adhering to data protection standards. Coordinate with protection staff and operational teams to ensure timely service provision and escalate operational issues. Participate in protection coordination forums and collaborate with partners to enhance referral networks. Assist in report preparation, case work summaries, and contribute to protection assessments and monitoring.
Work Experience
Experience in protection case management, particularly for vulnerable groups like GBV survivors, trafficking victims, and at-risk children, within humanitarian or migration contexts. Experience working with vulnerable individuals with complex needs, including returnees or deported migrants. Proven experience in referrals and coordination with local protection actors, NGOs, and government services.
Skills
Knowledge of IOM and inter-agency protection standards and guidelines, including Case Management Guidelines. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills. Ability to interact respectfully with migrants with trauma or complex needs. Adaptability and good judgment in challenging conditions. Good written and verbal communication skills for case notes and reports. Proficiency in MS Office and case management tools.