Project Associate

Introduction

Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations and the leading UN agency in the field of migration. Working closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners, IOM promotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It saves lives and protects people on the move, drives solutions to displacement, and facilitates pathways for regular migration, while providing services and advice to governments and migrants. 

IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. By creating such an environment, IOM aims to better harness the full potential of migration and strengthen its support to people on the move.

IOM invites candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process when required. Learn more about IOM’s workplace culture at IOM workplace culture | International Organization for Migration

Applications are welcome from internal and external candidates. For all IOM vacancies, applications from qualified and eligible first-tier candidates are considered before those of qualified and eligible second-tier candidates in the selection process. For the purpose of this vacancy, internal and internal-equivalent candidates are considered as first-tier candidates.

Organizational Context and Scope

Under the overall supervision of the Chief of Mission and the direct supervision of the Senior Operations Assistant (AVRR), the incumbent supports the implementation of Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) activities in the Netherlands, contributing to accurate information provision to migrants, coordination with relevant stakeholders, and effective operational assistance throughout the voluntary return process.

This position will be carried out primarily in the provinces of Limburg and North-Brabant.

1. Assist in the implementation and monitoring of project activities.
2. Retrieve, compile, summarise, analyse, and present information/data on specific project topics.
3. Monitor budget by verifying availability of funds, obtaining necessary approval and updating budget-related information.
4. Act as focal point for administrative coordination of project implementation, involving extensive liaison with diverse organisational units and external parties to initiate requests, obtain necessary clearances, process and follow-up on administrative actions, etc.
5. Draft status reports, identify shortfalls, bring them to the attention of the supervisor and suggest remedial actions to address delivery gaps.
6. Draft correspondence on project issues; prepare and update reports, briefing notes, graphics, statistical tables, presentation and other forms of documentation.
7. Respond to complex information requests and inquiries, set up and maintain files/records, and organise meetings, workshops and training sessions.
8. Participate in meetings and conferences to assist in coordinating implementation activities with local authorities, partners, United Nation (UN) agencies, intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations, donors and other stakeholders relevant to the project.
9. Assist in monitoring work of Implementing Partners (IP) and report non-compliances to the supervisor.
10. Provides guidance/training to new/junior staff.
11. Perform such other relevant duties as may be assigned.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in political or social sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law or a related field from an accredited academic institution with three years of relevant professional experience; or,

• High School diploma with five years of relevant professional experience.

Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience

• Experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, United Nations agencies and non-governmental organisations;

• Experience in working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking and other vulnerable groups; and,

• Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations, non-government or government institutions/organization in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage. 

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively and professionally with migrants, partners and colleagues.

• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and in line with data protection principles.

• Organizational and time‑management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple cases simultaneously.

• Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry, documentation and record‑keeping.

• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and adapt to diverse operational contexts.

• Problem‑solving skills and the ability to identify issues and propose practical solutions.

• Ability to work independently with limited supervision, as well as collaboratively within a team.

• Basic analytical skills to compile information, identify trends and prepare routine reports.

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• Flexibility and willingness to conduct field work, including visits to external facilities when required.

• Proficiency in standard office software and tools (e.g., MS Office applications and data systems).

• Possession of a valid Category B driving licence.

• Flexibility and availability to work irregular hours.

• Willingness to work in a detention environment when required by operational needs.

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Languages

All IOM staff members in all categories are required to be fluent in one of the IOM's official languages (English, French, Spanish).

For this position, fluency in English and Dutch is required (oral and written).

Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Required Competencies

IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.

Values - all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these five values:

• Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.
• Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.
• Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.
• Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
• Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.

Core Competencies – behavioural indicators Level 1

• Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
• Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
• Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.
• Accountability: Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.
• Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.

Notes

This position will be carried out primarily in the provinces of Limburg and North-Brabant.

Please refer to this link for guidance on IOM Job Category.

Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation.

This selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible to be appointed in a similar position for a period of 24 months.

Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, security clearances.

IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities.

IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training or other fee). IOM does not request any information related to bank accounts.

IOM only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system (for internal candidates link here). The online tool also allows candidates to track the status of their application.

No late applications will be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

For further information and other job postings, you are welcome to visit our website: IOM Careers and Job Vacancies