National Project Officer – Assisted Voluntary Return Protection

About the role

Under the overall supervision of the Head of Programs in Costa Rica and direct supervision of the Protection Coordinator, the National Project Officer (AVR Protection) will support the management of the Global Assisted Voluntary Return (GAVR) program in Costa Rica. The role focuses on ensuring protection standards for migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons and victims of trafficking.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in the overall coordination and management of the GAVR program.
• Liaise with governmental authorities, UN agencies, NGOs and other stakeholders to ensure effective protection interventions.
• Develop and update policies, standard operating procedures and risk‑assessment tools.
• Advocate for the rights and safety of vulnerable groups throughout the return process.
• Provide supervisory leadership to project staff and ensure compliance with protection standards.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law or related field with at least two years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree in the same fields.
• Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, trafficking victims or other vulnerable populations.
• Proven experience in liaising with government bodies, UN agencies and NGOs.
• Prior experience in an international humanitarian or development setting is an advantage.

Required skills

• Knowledge of migration management.
• Strong competence in mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS).
• Supervisory leadership and coordination abilities.
• Policy and SOP development.
• Risk assessment and protection advocacy.
• Fluency in Spanish and English (oral and written); additional languages such as Portuguese, Mandarin, Arabic, French or Russian are desirable.