Associate Durable Solutions Officer
Organizational Context
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) protects refugees and stateless persons globally, assisting millions in over 130 countries. UNHCR Mexico operates in a complex protection environment, focusing on durable solutions like local integration through decent work and socioeconomic inclusion. The region's industrial presence, particularly Japanese companies, offers potential for employment partnerships. This role supports UNHCR's agenda amidst financial constraints, aligning with Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus priorities and Japanese diplomatic initiatives.
Job Purpose
This JICA-funded position supports UNHCR Mexico's livelihoods and socioeconomic inclusion agenda in priority locations, aiming to expand inclusive employment opportunities for refugees and asylum-seekers. The role will foster strategic synergies between UNHCR and JICA cooperation frameworks, strengthening partnerships under UNHCR’s Local Integration Programme. It is critical for sustaining operational capacity and ensuring program continuity, especially given UNHCR Mexico's financial constraints and staffing reductions. The assignment aligns with global priorities for integrating refugees into host communities through decent work and economic growth, contributing to their self-reliance and meaningful contribution to society.
Responsibilities
The Associate Durable Solutions Officer will support the implementation of UNHCR’s Local Integration Programme and livelihoods interventions in Aguascalientes, focusing on employability, access to livelihoods, financial inclusion, and services, adhering to AGD principles. Key duties include supporting job matching and labor inclusion for refugees and asylum-seekers, following up on placements, and ensuring basic working conditions. The role involves engaging with employers and the private sector by mapping companies, providing guidance on inclusive hiring, and facilitating linkages with specialized partners. Coordination with implementing partners, civil society, local authorities, and service providers is essential. The officer will contribute to community-based inclusion through outreach and feedback mechanisms, support monitoring of activities, and assist in preparing reports and documenting lessons learned. Liaison with key Japanese stakeholders will also be required.
Work Experience
A minimum of three years of professional experience is required, specifically in refugee integration or the reintegration of internally displaced persons. Experience in community development, working with private sector entities, UN institutions, or NGOs is also necessary. Demonstrated interest or experience in socioeconomic inclusion, financial inclusion, human rights, refugee law, or the humanitarian-development nexus is essential. Previous volunteer experience or experience in diverse cultural settings is highly desirable.
Skills
Key competencies include Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Building Trust, Client Orientation, Creativity, Ethics and Values, Integrity, Judgement and Decision-making, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, and Self-Management. Expertise in project management, programme development, strategy, and community development is also required.