Project Associate

IOM; Wien; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

IOM is seeking a Project Associate in Austria to support the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration program. You will assist with implementation, data analysis, and coordination with authorities and partners to ensure safe and dignified returns.

The role requires strong project management, document drafting, and engagement with stakeholders, including vulnerable returnees, while supporting training and outreach activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, or Law.
• Three years of relevant professional experience; five years with a High School diploma.
• Experience liaising with government authorities, UN agencies, NGOs.

Responsibilities

• Assist in implementing and monitoring project activities and data analysis.
• Monitor budgets by verifying fund availability and updating financials.
• Draft status reports, briefing notes, and correspondence.
• Coordinate with local authorities, partners, and UN agencies.
• Provide guidance to junior staff and coordinate training sessions.

Skills

Migration knowledge

Project management

Public speaking

Policy analysis

German language

Education

Bachelor's degree in Political or Social Sciences / related field

High School diploma + 5 years experience

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Internet research

Job description

Organizational context: IOM, established in 1951, is a leading UN agency promoting humane and orderly migration. It supports governments and migrants by saving lives, protecting people on the move, and facilitating regular migration pathways. The Unit for Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration complements national systems in Austria, focusing on vulnerable returnees and providing operational support, training, and outreach. This role operates under the Chief of Mission and Head of Unit.

Job purpose: The Project Associate will provide essential assistance for the implementation of Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration projects within IOM Austria. This involves supporting the Austrian return system by enhancing existing national mechanisms, with a specific focus on assisting vulnerable returnees. The role contributes to ensuring safe, timely, and dignified returns and sustainable reintegration. Key functions include providing operational and needs-based support, conducting quality assurance measures, facilitating training and exchange opportunities for stakeholders, and engaging in outreach and communication activities. The position requires close coordination with IOM offices in countries of return and collaboration with relevant stakeholders in Austria.

Responsibilities: Assist in the implementation and monitoring of project activities, including retrieving, compiling, and analyzing project data. Monitor project budgets by verifying fund availability, obtaining approvals, and updating financial information. Serve as a focal point for administrative coordination, liaising with internal units and external parties to manage requests and follow up on actions. Draft status reports, identify and report shortfalls, and propose solutions. Prepare correspondence, reports, briefing notes, and other documentation. Respond to information requests, maintain project files, and organize meetings and training sessions. Participate in meetings to coordinate implementation with local authorities, partners, UN agencies, and other stakeholders. Monitor implementing partners and report non-compliance. Provide guidance to junior staff and perform other assigned duties.

Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, or Law from an accredited institution, coupled with three years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a High School diploma with five years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Accredited universities are recognized by UNESCO.

Work experience: Experience is required in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, UN agencies, and NGOs. Experience working with vulnerable groups such as migrants, refugees, and victims of trafficking is necessary. Experience with migrant diaspora communities is also required. Prior work in international humanitarian organizations or governmental institutions in a multicultural setting is advantageous.

Skills: In-depth knowledge of migration-related subjects. Strong computer skills (Word, Excel, Internet). Proven project management skills (monitoring, reporting, financial controlling) are an asset. Moderation, presentation, research, and publication skills are beneficial. Knowledge of Austrian and/or European migration landscapes, policies, institutions, and stakeholders is an asset.

Required languages: English, German

Desired languages: Arabic