UNHCR is hiring an Assistant Protection Officer for 2026 with opportunities in refugee protection, human rights law, and humanitarian operations. Learn about eligibility, responsibilities, and how to apply before the deadline.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is recruiting an Assistant Protection Officer (NOA) for 2026. This role focuses on protecting the rights of refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless individuals while supporting humanitarian operations and legal protection frameworks.
The position is based in Tel Aviv, with responsibilities related to refugee protection, legal analysis, and humanitarian response coordination.
Job Overview
Position: Assistant Protection Officer
Organization: UNHCR
Grade: NOA (National Professional Officer)
Location: Tel Aviv, Israel
Job Type: Full-Time
Contract Type: Temporary Assignment
Start Date: 1 March 2026
End Date: 31 May 2026
Application Deadline: 11 March 2026
Job ID: JR2664808
The position contributes to the delivery of UNHCR protection services and ensures compliance with international refugee protection standards.
About UNHCR
The UNHCR is the United Nations agency responsible for protecting refugees, displaced people, and stateless individuals worldwide.
The organization works in more than 130 countries, providing protection, humanitarian assistance, and durable solutions such as:
- Refugee resettlement
- Voluntary repatriation
- Local integration
- Legal protection and documentation
UNHCR’s mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of people forced to flee conflict, persecution, or disasters.
Key Responsibilities
The Assistant Protection Officer supports the design and implementation of protection strategies for populations of concern.
Major responsibilities include:
Protection and Legal Support
- Apply international refugee and human rights law
- Provide legal advice and documentation support for refugees
- Conduct eligibility interviews and refugee status determination
- Assist in preventing and reducing statelessness
Case Management
- Manage individual protection cases
- Support responses related to gender-based violence (GBV)
- Address child protection issues
- Monitor incidents such as expulsion or forced return
Strategy and Programme Development
- Contribute to national protection strategies
- Support child protection and education planning
- Provide inputs into policy development and operational guidelines
Stakeholder Engagement
- Work with government authorities and NGOs
- Build partnerships with humanitarian actors
- Support advocacy efforts related to refugee protection
Data and Information Management
- Maintain protection databases and reports
- Track refugee population data and protection indicators
- Provide information for policy and program decisions
Eligibility Requirements
Education
Applicants must hold a degree in one of the following fields:
- Law
- International Law
- Political Science
- Other relevant fields related to human rights or humanitarian affairs
Experience
Candidates must have:
- At least 1 year of relevant professional experience with a Bachelor’s degree, or
- No experience required with a Master’s degree or PhD
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English
- Fluency in Hebrew is required for this specific duty station
- Knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage
Required Skills
Essential skills include:
- Knowledge of international refugee law
- Understanding of international humanitarian law
- Protection programming and standards
- Age, gender, and diversity (AGD) approaches
- Gender-based violence prevention and response
- Documentation and legal drafting
Additional technical skills such as project management and data analysis are beneficial.
Work Environment and Values
UNHCR promotes a work culture based on:
- Professionalism
- Integrity
- Respect for diversity
The organization maintains zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, sexual exploitation, and abuse and promotes a safe and inclusive workplace for all employees.
Benefits and Career Opportunities
Working with UNHCR offers:
- Experience in global humanitarian operations
- Exposure to international refugee protection frameworks
- Collaboration with global humanitarian partners
- Opportunities for career growth within the UN system
The position also provides hands-on experience in complex humanitarian and legal environments.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official UNHCR careers portal.
Steps to apply:
- Visit the UNHCR careers website.
- Search for Job ID JR2664808.
- Prepare your CV and supporting documents.
- Submit the online application before 11 March 2026.
Applicants should ensure all documentation is complete before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a remote position?
The role is based in Tel Aviv and involves on-site work with humanitarian partners.
What level is the position?
It is a National Professional Officer (NOA) role.
Is prior UN experience required?
No, but experience in refugee protection or human rights law is beneficial.
What languages are required?
Fluency in English and Hebrew is required.
How long is the contract?
The assignment runs from March 2026 to May 2026.
Who should apply?
Candidates with legal or humanitarian backgrounds interested in refugee protection and human rights.
Conclusion
The UNHCR Assistant Protection Officer position for 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for professionals interested in refugee protection and humanitarian work. Candidates with expertise in international law, human rights, or political science can contribute to meaningful protection programs that support displaced populations worldwide.
Applications should be submitted before 11 March 2026 through the official UNHCR careers portal.
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