Operations Assistant

Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations and the leading UN agency in the field of migration. Working closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners, IOM promotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It saves lives and protects people on the move, drives solutions to displacement, and facilitates pathways for regular migration, while providing services and advice to governments and migrants. 

IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. By creating such an environment, IOM aims to better harness the full potential of migration and strengthen its support to people on the move.

IOM invites candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process when required. Learn 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.

IOM in The Netherlands has been the main implementer of Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) activities since 1992. During the past decades AVRR has evolved to cover the full range of IOM support: 1) pre-departure support including assistance tailored to the needs of migrants in situation of vulnerability, facilitating travel documentation; 2) travel assistance; and 3) post arrival assistance and reintegration.

Three operational teams in The Netherlands and IOM colleagues in the countries of return, cooperate closely together to ensure safe and dignified voluntary return. In addition, IOM The Netherlands works with different partners, including medical professionals and airlines, following up on their expertise.

Under the overall supervision of the Team Manager (AVRR) and the direct supervision of the Senior Operations Assistant (AVRR), the incumbent supports the implementation of Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) activities in the Netherlands, contributing to accurate information provision to migrants, coordination with relevant stakeholders, and effective operational assistance throughout the voluntary return process, with a main focus on assisting migrants who are in administrative detention.

1.Assist in the implementation and monitoring of project activities.
2.Retrieve, compile, summarize, analyse, and present information/data on specific project topics.
3.Monitor budget; verify availability of funds; obtain necessary approval and update budget related information.
4.Act as focal point for administrative coordination of project implementation, involving extensive liaison with diverse organizational units and external parties to initiate requests, obtain necessary clearances, process and follow-up on administrative actions, etc.
5.Draft status reports, identifying shortfalls in delivery, bring them to the attention of the supervisor and suggest remedial actions.
6.Draft correspondence on project issues; prepare and update reports, briefing notes, graphics, statistical tables, presentation and other forms of documentation.
7.Respond to complex information requests and inquiries; set up and maintain files/records; organize meetings, workshops and training sessions;
8.Participate in meetings and conferences; assist in coordinating implementation activities with local authorities, partners, United Nation agencies, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, donors and other stakeholders relevant to the project.
9.Assist in monitoring work of implementing partners and report non-compliances to the supervisor.
10.Provides guidance/training to new/junior staff.
11.Perform other related duties as assigned.

• School diploma with five years of relevant experience; or,
• Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law or related fields from an accredited academic institution with three years of relevant professional experience.

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

• Experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, United Nations agencies and non-governmental organizations;
• Experience in working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking and other vulnerable groups; and,
• Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations, non-government or government institutions/organization in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively and professionally with migrants, partners and colleagues.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and in line with data protection principles.
• Organizational and time‑management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple cases simultaneously.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry, documentation and record‑keeping.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and adapt to diverse operational contexts.
• Problem‑solving skills and the ability to identify issues and propose practical solutions.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision, as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Basic analytical skills to compile information, identify trends and prepare routine reports.
• Flexibility and willingness to conduct field work, including visits to external facilities when required.
• Proficiency in standard office software and tools (e.g., MS Office applications and data systems).
• Willingness to work irregular and flexible hours.
• Valid driving license type B

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, fluency in English, Dutch and Arabic is required (oral and written).

Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.

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