Protection Associate

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Protection Associate will primarily lead the provision of structured case management services for refugees and asylum seekers experiencing psychosocial distress. The role focuses on assessment, case planning, referrals, and follow-up, ensuring individuals receive appropriate, timely, and confidential support. The Associate will contribute to strengthening integrated, client-centered case management systems within HIAS programming, while embedding MHPSS principles into broader protection interventions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Conduct intake assessments and vulnerability screenings to identify client needs, followed by the development of individualized case plans.
• Ensure timely referrals to appropriate services and maintain ongoing follow-up to monitor progress and outcomes.
• Document all case information in the case management system in line with confidentiality and data protection standards; generate reports to inform program decisions
• Maintain and regularly update service mapping and referral pathways to support integrated case managemen
• Identify individuals requiring specialized mental health care and coordinate referrals to appropriate service
• Integrate basic psychosocial support principles into case management to ensure a trauma-informed and client-centered approach.
• Participate in outreach activities to identify vulnerable individuals and facilitate access to case management services
• Support community-based mechanisms for safe identification and referral of individuals in need
• Conduct mental health and psychosocial awareness activities to promote help-seeking behavior and reduce stigma
• Collaborate with protection teams to ensure coordinated, holistic support for vulnerable individuals, including those affected by Violence, child protection risks, and other protection concerns
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with partners, community structures, and service providers to strengthen referral systems
• Prepare timely and accurate reports on case management activities, trends, challenges, and service gap
• Monitor trends in client needs and contribute to program improvement and response planning
• Ensure compliance with HIAS policies on safeguarding, accountability to affected populations, and data protection
• Support training and capacity building of staff and community actors on case management principles, safe case handling, and ethical standards
• Perform any other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:

• A degree in psychology, sociology, social work, community development or a related field of study
• Minimum 1–2 years of experience in case management within MHPSS or protection programming
• Experience working with refugees or vulnerable populations preferred
• Knowledge of case management principles, IASC MHPSS guidelines, and safeguarding frameworks
• Knowledge of Accountability to Affected Population.
• Knowledge of PSEA