Senior Protection Associate

About the role

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is seeking a Senior Protection Associate to support the implementation of protection activities across Erbil, Dohuk and Sulaymaniyah. The role focuses on safeguarding vulnerable migrants, managing counter‑trafficking cases and facilitating Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programmes.

Key responsibilities

• Provide technical supervision and day‑to‑day coordination of migrant protection activities, including case management, counselling, legal referrals and reintegration support.
• Oversee local teams in each location, ensuring timely rollout, monitoring and reporting of protection interventions.
• Identify protection risks and needs of vulnerable migrants, coordinate safe referrals to specialised services and support pre‑departure counselling and return travel arrangements.
• Maintain accurate data updates and ensure 100 % compliance with reporting requirements.

Required profile

• Demonstrated experience in migration protection, case management and counter‑trafficking initiatives.
• Proven ability to supervise and coordinate multi‑location teams.
• Strong knowledge of AVRR processes and legal frameworks affecting migrants.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work with a leading UN agency dedicated to humane migration solutions.
• Collaborative, inclusive workplace that values diversity.
• Professional development within a global humanitarian network.