ASSOCIATE INVESTIGATOR (Temporary Job Opening)

The Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (IIMP) was established by the General Assembly in its resolution 77/301, adopted on 29 June 2023. The incumbent reports to the Human Rights Officer or his/her designee.

Within delegated authority, the Associate Investigator may be responsible for the following duties:

• Assists in the conduct of investigations involving missing persons in Syria.
• Gathers information relevant to missing persons cases, including through witness interviews, NGOs, and humanitarian organizations.
• Records statements from survivors and victims, including families of missing persons.
• Assists in forensic projects including investigating burial sites as and when required.
• Takes part in search field missions where required.
• Contributes to the collection and analysis of data as well as identification of trends or patterns and provides draft insights through graphs, charts, tables and reports using data visualization methods for data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation and reporting.

Professionalism: Knowledge of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to investigations. Good research, analytical and problem-solving skills, including ability to identify and participate in the resolution of issues/problems. Knowledge of various research methodologies and sources, including electronic sources on the Internet, intranet and other databases. Ability to apply good judgment in the context of assignments given ability to gather information and interview witnesses. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Able to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management.

Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in international law, criminal investigation or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, investigations or related area is required. Experience carrying out investigations of violations of international human rights law or international humanitarian law is desirable. Investigation experience in or on the Middle East is desirable.

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is required. Arabic is desirable.

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.