In the remote and ecologically vital region of Darién, Panama, a dedicated professional is making a difference as a Senior Field Assistant under the UNOPS arrangement for UNHCR. This full-time position, posted recently with an application deadline approaching on June 19, 2025, offers an extraordinary opportunity for individuals committed to humanitarian work and community support in challenging environments.
About the Position
The Senior Field Assistant is a key player in UNHCR’s efforts to assist displaced populations and vulnerable communities in the Darién region—a border area that has become a critical transit zone for refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants. The role is based in Meteti, Panama, and is offered under a national contract at the LICA5 level, with an initial term until the end of 2025 and the possibility of extension based on performance and operational needs.
This position is designed for Panamanian nationals or residents with valid work and residency permits. It emphasizes the importance of local knowledge, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability in a complex humanitarian landscape influenced by environmental, social, and logistical challenges.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Field Assistant’s responsibilities encompass a broad range of activities vital to the success of UNHCR’s operations:
- Monitoring Program Implementation: Overseeing the delivery of assistance items and infrastructure projects, ensuring initiatives are effectively executed on the ground.
- Supporting Community Engagement: Acting as a liaison between affected populations, local authorities, and implementing partners. This includes facilitating communication, assisting with registration and assistance provision, and supporting community-based protection principles.
- Data Collection and Reporting: Gathering relevant data on the situation of displaced persons, analyzing information, and preparing reports for internal use and strategic planning.
- Administrative and Logistical Support: Assisting in organizing field missions, preparing documentation, and ensuring smooth coordination of activities.
- Protection and Risk Management: Identifying protection risks, supporting interventions to uphold the safety and dignity of persons of concern, and escalating issues when necessary.
- Interpreting and Liaison Work: Serving as a key interpreter and community connector, facilitating effective communication between local populations and humanitarian actors.
Qualifications and Experience
Candidates suited for this role typically possess:
- A background in Development Studies, Human Rights, Community Development, Social Work, Law, Political Science, Sociology, or Public Administration.
- At least two years of experience working directly with communities in humanitarian, protection, or development contexts—preferably in remote or underserved regions affected by displacement or migration.
- Proven ability to support field activities such as registration, assistance delivery, infrastructure monitoring, and community engagement.
- Experience liaising with local authorities, civil society, and partners to coordinate services.
- Familiarity with community-based protection principles, including age, gender, and diversity (AGD) approaches.
- Strong data collection, analysis, and reporting skills.
- Fluency in both English and Spanish is mandatory, with proficiency in local languages considered an advantage.
Work Environment and Skills
Working in Darién presents unique challenges due to its dense jungle, limited infrastructure, and dynamic humanitarian landscape. The ideal candidate is proactive, adaptable, and resilient—able to operate effectively in unpredictable conditions and complex social environments.
The position requires strong communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to facilitate community interactions. Experience supporting administrative tasks, organizing field missions, and managing logistical operations is also essential.
Why This Role Matters
The Senior Field Assistant plays an integral role in ensuring that UNHCR’s programs are effectively implemented, reaching those most in need in one of Panama’s most sensitive regions. By supporting protection initiatives, assisting in registration and assistance efforts, and fostering coordination with local authorities and communities, this position directly contributes to safeguarding human rights and promoting stability in a challenging context.
Application Details
Interested candidates are encouraged to review the full terms of reference and application requirements. The deadline to apply is June 19, 2025. The initial contract is set until December 31, 2025, with potential for extension, contingent upon operational needs and performance.
A Call to Action
For professionals passionate about humanitarian work, community development, and protecting vulnerable populations, this role offers a meaningful opportunity to make a tangible impact. Working in Darién, Panama, the Senior Field Assistant will be at the forefront of efforts to support displaced persons and foster resilience in one of the most critical transit regions in Latin America.
Final Thoughts
This position exemplifies the UN’s commitment to creating inclusive, diverse, and impactful humanitarian responses. It invites motivated individuals to bring their expertise, compassion, and resilience to a challenging yet profoundly rewarding environment—helping to shape a safer, more equitable future for displaced communities in Panama.
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