Expedited SVN2026/002: Operations Associate, Movements

Introduction

Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations, and as the leading UN agency in the field of migration, works closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It does so by providing services and advice to governments and migrants.

IOM is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally, while working towards harnessing the full potential of migration. Read 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

Since the inception of IOM in 1951, Movement Operations have been and continue to be a fundamental pillar of the Organization’s work. The organized movement of persons in need of international migration assistance is a primary mandate of the Organization and a cornerstone of IOM’s operations. Movement Operations Units in various IOM Country Offices, coordinated under the Resettlement and Movement Management (RMM) Unit in the Division of Movement, Resettlement and Labour Pathways (MRLP) at IOM’s Headquarters, are responsible for all aspects of travel for migrants and refugees under IOM’s auspices, in accordance with the various framework agreements with resettlement and receiving Governments and partners across the spectrum of the Organization's programmes. 

Under the general supervision of the National Movement Operations Manager and direct supervision of the Senior Movement Operations Associate,  the Movement Operations Associate is responsible for undertaking movement operations activities, with the following duties and responsibilities:

1. Coordinate, schedule and book travel for individuals upon receipt of travel-ready status and/or request in accordance with travel requirements, including but not limited to the distribution of Advance Booking Notifications (ABNs), updates, domestic flights, cancellations and departure notifications.

2. Organize and complete all bookings in a timely manner and in accordance with the Handbook of IOM Tariffs (HIT) and standard operating procedures (SOPs) from the Division of Resettlement and Movement Management (RMM). Under the supervision of the direct supervisor, distribute travel information to internal and external stakeholders. 
3. Compile and analyze descriptive statistics, using I-GATOR to capture costs and prepare travel loan paperwork as specified in SOPs and in accordance with host government’s procedures. 
4. Create movement data files, by ABN, for all individuals in accordance with SOPs and for IOM accountability. 
5. In accordance with local practices and RMM guidelines and standards, and in close coordination with supervisors, identify and assign escorts to accompany vulnerable individuals. 
6. In coordination with the supervisor, process exit permission paperwork and travel documents in accordance with established standards and the local guidelines. 
7. Conduct identity and document verification prior to the distribution of travel documentation to refugees, immigrants and migrants.
8. Conduct pre-departure counselling on pre-embarkation procedures and special needs during travel (such as meals, medication, wheelchairs and medical conditions) as needed. Identify beneficiary vulnerabilities and coordinate appropriate action to ensure they are addressed.
9. Provide regular feedback on work being accomplished to the supervisor  and keep the supervisor immediately informed of any issues that arise.
10. Undertake duty travel as needed to participate in meetings, trainings and other programme activities, including in their planning and facilitation.

11. Undertake duty travel as required and delegated to participate in meetings, trainings and other programme activities.

12. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of applicable SOPs, related systems and databases, and IOM Standards of Conduct. Maintain and ensure the confidentiality and integrity of all relevant paperwork in line with SOPs, Standards of Conduct and relevant data protection rules.

13. Uphold RMM Protection Mainstreaming Minimum Standards while carrying out all duties and responsibilities and demonstrate the ability to remain professional, impartial and unbiased during all interactions with migrants and colleagues per the IOM Standards of Conduct and instruction on the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA). Alert the supervisor or management of any non-compliance to SOPs, RMM Protection Mainstreaming Minimum Standards or IOM Standards of Conduct by IOM personnel or partners.\

14. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Education

• High school diploma with 5 years of work experience; or 
• Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, International Relations, Regional Studies or a related field from an accredited academic institution with 3 years of relevant work experience.  

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

Experience

• Prior Movement Operations, transportation-related and/or management experience are strongly preferred. 
• Work experience in programs including movement operations component, particularly in resettlement programs. 
• Experience with guiding and leading junior staff members.
• Experience with communicating with beneficiaries.

Skills

• Computer/software literate with good knowledge in Microsoft Office.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Attention to detail and ability to organize.

• Self-motivated, objective-driven driven and able to use own initiative and work under pressure with minimum supervision.

• Team leading skills. 

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, SPANISH AND ENGLISH mandatory

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.

Managerial Competencies – behavioural indicators Level 2, if with direct reports

• Leadership: Provides a clear sense of direction, leads by example and demonstrates the ability to carry out the Organization’s vision. Assists others to realize and develop their leadership and professional potential.
• Empowering others: Creates an enabling environment where staff can contribute their best and develop their potential.
• Building Trust: Promotes shared values and creates an atmosphere of trust and honesty.
• Strategic thinking and vision: Works strategically to realize the Organization’s goals and communicates a clear strategic direction.
• Humility: Leads with humility and shows openness to acknowledging own shortcomings. 

Notes

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