Senior Project Associate – Protection (G7)

About the role

The Senior Project Associate – Protection will support the overall management of protection programming for the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Costa Rica. Reporting to the Programme Coordinator and directly to the Project Manager & Protection Specialist, the role contributes to the design, implementation and monitoring of activities that safeguard migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons and other vulnerable groups.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in planning, coordinating and monitoring protection projects, ensuring alignment with IOM policies and donor requirements.
• Liaise with governmental authorities, UN agencies, NGOs and other stakeholders on counter‑trafficking, gender‑based violence and protection issues.
• Facilitate community outreach, capacity‑building workshops and training sessions for vulnerable populations.
• Support budget preparation, financial tracking and reporting for protection programmes.
• Contribute to the preparation of project proposals, progress reports and technical documentation.
• Maintain up‑to‑date records and databases related to protection activities.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law or a related field with at least five years of relevant experience, OR a high‑school diploma with seven years of relevant experience.
• Proven experience working with government bodies, UN agencies and NGOs on counter‑trafficking, GBV and protection matters.
• Demonstrated experience in community work with vulnerable groups, training delivery and capacity building.
• Solid background in project management, including budget control and reporting.
• Experience in the UN system or international humanitarian organizations is an advantage.

Required skills