Job Description

• Job Identification17674
• Posting Date11/14/2025, 12:00 PM
• Apply Before11/21/2025, 04:00 AM
• Contract TypeConsultancy (Up to 11 months)
• Initial Contract Duration2 Months
• Vacancy TypeConsultancy
• Recruiting TypeConsultant
• GradeUG
• location Kenya–Somalia–Ethiopia Borderlands

Job DescriptionProject Context and Scope

In response to this evolving context, IOM Kenya, with funding from the Integrated Security Fund (ISF) is launching a targeted research initiative to better understand the drivers, routes, actors, and impacts of irregular migration and human trafficking in the KSE borderlands. The goal is to generate robust, localized, and policy-relevant evidence that can inform IOM programming, donor strategies, and government responses in the region. The research will also contribute to broader efforts to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration, while combating organized migration crime and improving protection mechanisms for vulnerable populations on the move.

To support this initiative, IOM Kenya is seeking to engage a highly qualified Research Consultant with proven expertise in migration research, trafficking dynamics, and irregular migration patterns across the Horn of Africa.

Organizational Department / Unit to which the Consultant is contributing

The consultant will report directly to the Data and Research Coordinator at IOM Kenya and will work closely with a dedicated team comprising of a Senior Data and Research Assistant, a project assistant, IOM Displacement Tracking and Flow Monitoring enumerators, an independent security research firm and government officials where needed.

Responsibilities

The consultant will be responsible for:

Tangible and measurable outputs of the work assignment      

• First deliverable: Conduct “FM+” data collection; a qualitative addendum to ongoing Flow Monitoring Data Collection
  1. Coordinate with existing DTM Flow Monitoring enumerators in and around Nairobi to conduct data collection activities routinely throughout the course of the consultancy
  2. Meet enumerators and selected respondents for long-form interviews using the provided KI interview guides
  3. Probe questions sufficiently to gather detailed information
  4. Transcribe and translate interviews into English-language Microsoft Word files
  5. Provide anecdotal feedback as requested

Deliverable due weekly for the entirety of the contract: Share all interview files from the given week with IOM Data and Research unit securely, by Friday of the relevant workweek

• Second Deliverable: Data collection outside Nairobi
  1. Travel to selected locations outside Nairobi to conduct enumerator hiring and training, as requested
  2. Travel to selected locations outside Nairobi to interview selected respondents for long-form interviews using the provided KI interview guides
  3. Probe questions sufficiently to gather detailed information
  4. Transcribe and translate interviews into English-language Microsoft Word files
  5. Provide anecdotal feedback as requested

Deliverable due weekly for the entirety of the contract: Share all interview files from the given       week with IOM Data and Research unit securely, by Friday of the relevant workweek

• Third deliverable -Support to analysis of qualitative data and to Final Report 
  1. As requested, support analysts with understanding and contextualizing findings from the qualitative analysis.
  2. The following to be provided as part of the third deliverable, to be included in the final report: 
  3. As requested, Incorporate stakeholder feedback into the final report 

Performance indicators for the evaluation of results

• Deliver a comprehensive inception report that identifies knowledge gaps, successful interventions, and includes actor mapping and risk assessments, with the flexibility to update the report as new information becomes available.
• Conduct thorough secondary data analysis throughout the assignment, utilizing a wide range of datasets, including IOM’s own data and relevant international sources, to ensure robust validation and triangulation of findings.
• Collect and analyze primary qualitative data through semi-structured interviews to provide detailed insights into migration and trafficking dynamics.
• Deliver high-quality final report, qualitative datasets and analysis 
• Demonstrate active engagement and collaboration with the IOM team and stakeholders by participating in workshops, responding constructively to feedback, and integrating inputs effectively into all deliverables.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required
• Proficiency in Swahili is highly desirable 

Travel required

Occasional travel is expected

Experiences and Qualifications

Education

• Advanced university degree (master’s or above) in Research Methods, Public Health, Conflict and Securities, Migration Studies, Political Science, Sociology, International Development, or related fields

Experience

• At least 8–10 years of research experience in East and Horn of Africa, with proven expertise in researching human trafficking, smuggling, migration, or border governance
• Based in or with long-term experience working in Kenya, Somalia, or Ethiopia
• Familiarity with UK migration priorities and programming is a strong advantage
• Ability to operate independently in high-risk or hard-to-reach environments.

Skills

• Strong qualitative research skills
• Excellent English writing and analytical skills; proven experience producing policy-oriented research
• Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills
• Ability to operate independently, manage deadlines and meet expectations

Languages

• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required

Travel required

• No

Required Competencies IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process. Values - all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these three values:

• Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.
• Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.
• Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.
• Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
• Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.

Core Competencies – behavioural indicators

• Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
• Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
• Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.
• Accountability: Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.
• Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.

Skills Required

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