Deadline for Applications
September 18, 2025
Hardship Level (not applicable for home-based)
A (least hardship)
Family Type (not applicable for home-based)
Family
Staff Member / Affiliate Type
UNOPS LICA5
2025-10-01
There will be 1 (one) hire for this advertisement, subject to operational needs and requirements.
1. General Background
Voluntary returns to Syria have also shown an upward trend in Türkiye as of 9 December 2024. PMM has reacted to the increasing applications for voluntary return to Syria rapidly and increased its daily processing capacity from 3,000 persons to 19,000 persons through deployment of personnel at the border crossings and PDMMs.
FRIT VolRep Project supported by EUD will be signed between UNHCR and PMM. PMM’s Department of Voluntary Return will coordinate project implementation within PMM and with other government institutions. The department will also manage internal operations, including logistics, participant planning, monitoring, workshops, field visits, and statistical data collection for cash assistance.
Currently, PMM assigned three staff members to this project, two of whom are on temporary duty. Due to the significant workload, PMM needs three more staff to support implementation.
The Senior Project Assistant will oversee voluntary return procedures, maintain regular communication with Bureau supervisors and provincial focal points, and coordinate field activities.
2. Purpose and Scope of Assignment
The purpose of this assignment is to provide operational and administrative support for the effective implementation of the Voluntary Return Project under the supervision of the PMM. The Senior Project Assistant will be responsible for carrying out tasks and procedures assigned by the PMM, with a focus on coordination, data management, and reporting.
The scope of the assignment includes supporting the coordination of Voluntary Return Offices under Provincial Directorates of Migration Management (PDMMs), and contributing to the harmonization of tasks and procedures related to voluntary return at the field level. The Senior Project Assistant will assist in consolidating lists and other relevant data of foreign nationals eligible for cash assistance, ensuring timely and accurate data transmission to UNHCR via designated systems or platforms.
The role also involves contributing to the implementation of relevant legislation, maintaining proper documentation and archiving practices, and participating in activities such as reporting, research, and meetings. The Senior Project Assistant will support coordination between UNHCR and PDMMs regarding operational aspects of the voluntary return process and assist in the general administration of the Voluntary Return Department.
The position may require travel within Türkiye to support coordination, monitoring, and implementation efforts at the provincial level. Additional tasks may be assigned by the Unit Manager and Department Head based on operational needs. The incumbent may perform other tasks and duties assigned by the Presidency and UNHCR
3. Monitoring and Progress Controls
The incumbent will receive guidance from the Senior Protection Officer in the operation and will be under the direct supervision of the Assistant Legal Officer. UNHCR Manual, Operations Plans, UN, and UNHCR financial/budgetary rules and regulations will guide the work of the Project Assistant. S/he is expected to stay abreast of the challenges posed to the region by the political context, the UN and humanitarian reform, and institutional developments.
4. Qualifications and Experience
a. Education
It is highly preferred that the individual contractor to have at least a bachelor’s degree in international relations or other relevant disciplines within the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences.
b. Work Experience
The individual contractor should have at least 2 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma; or 1 year of relevant work experience with a Bachelor's or equivalent or higher, preferably in the field of migration, protection, or project implementation within governmental institutions, international organizations, or NGOs. Experience in inter-institutional coordination, engagement with international organizations, and project management is highly desirable.
c. Key Competencies
• Possess strong computer skills, particularly in data entry and data management,
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs,
• Strong communication skills and ability to build positive relationships,
• Patient, open to learning, and support-oriented,
• Capable of effective listening and evaluation,
• Able to travel within Türkiye without restrictions,
• Adaptable to a fast-paced and dynamic work environment,
• Team-oriented and collaborative,
• Advanced skills in English
(reading/writing/speaking).• Knowledge of Graphic Design is an asset.
PLEASE DO NOT USE TURKISH CHARACTERS IN YOUR NAME & SURNAME INFORMATION.
Recruitment as a UNHCR staff member and engagement under a UNHCR affiliate scheme or as an intern is subject to successful reference checks and integrity clearance.
UNHCR does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, meeting, processing, training, or any other fees).
Only short-listed candidates will be notified. The recruitment process might include a written test and/or oral interview for this job opening. No late applications will be accepted.
External candidates should be legally present in Türkiye at the time of application, recruitment, and hire.
Non-Turkish citizens are required to upload their residence permits or relevant documents under the ‘Certifications’ section, by selecting the type as ‘Personnel Administration – Other’, in order to be considered for this job opening.
Applications by non-Turkish citizens will NOT be considered if a valid residence permit is not attached to the application.
For further information on how to apply, please visit the ‘UNHCR - Application and Selection’ page at
https://www.unhcr.org/how-to-apply.html.
Standard Job Description
Required Languages
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Desired Languages
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Additional Qualifications
Skills
Education
Certifications
Other information
This position doesn't require a functional clearance
Remote
No