The salary for the Boatman Assistant Jobs in Colombia with UNHCR with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees 2026 is aligned with the local compensation structure of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Colombia.
While exact figures are published in the official vacancy notice, similar national field support roles typically range between COP 2,800,000 to COP 4,200,000 per month, depending on experience, contract level, and internal grading.
Job Details:
- Organization: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
- Title: Boatman Assistant Job in Mocoa with UNHCR 2026
- Location: Mocoa, Colombia
- Job type: Full-time
- Remote Work: No
About the Operational Context:
In Putumayo, a department that shares borders with Ecuador and Peru, the Mocoa Field Unit is in operation. The region is interconnected by two significant river systems: the Caquetá and Putumayo rivers. In the context of Colombia’s internal armed conflict, these waterways are sensitive corridors, but they are also essential channels for local communities.
Nearly 160,000 of the 364,000 residents of Putumayo are acknowledged as victims of armed conflict. Municipalities including Mocoa, Valle del Guamuez, Puerto Leguízamo, Puerto Guzmán, and Puerto Asís are prioritized by the office.
The department is culturally diverse, with over 10,000 Afro-Colombians and 15 Indigenous groups. Additionally, it serves as a residence for over 12,000 Venezuelan refugees and migrants. It is imperative to have access to rivers in order to reach high-risk and remote communities.
Purpose of the Assignment:
The Mocoa Field Unit organizes humanitarian river missions, which the Boatman Assistant assists in supporting. The responsibility is to guarantee that protection teams can access vulnerable populations in remote locations, provide operational support, and ensure the secure transportation of goods by river.
You will be responsible for the protection of exiled or at-risk individuals and will accompany missions throughout Putumayo and Caquetá.
Responsibilities of Boatman Assistant Jobs in Colombia with UNHCR
Subject to the supervision of the Senior Field Associate, the chosen contractor will:
- Assist in the conveyance of UNHCR personnel, partners, and materials during field missions.
- Ensure the welfare of passengers and the community by promptly responding to emergencies.
- Monitor and maintain communication and safety equipment on board
- Offer logistical assistance for the cleansing and maintenance of boats.
- Before and during missions, provide fuel and lubricants.
- Ensure that the boat is clean both before and after each journey.
- Provide assistance in the event that the canoe becomes adrift
- Guarantee secure anchoring and mooring
- Adhere to the safety and accident-prevention protocols of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR
- As directed by the mission commanders, secure the boat.
Each mission will be assessed according to predetermined service performance criteria.
Occupational Safety and Health:
The position entails the navigation of rivers in remote and potentially hazardous regions. Safety regulations necessitate strict adherence. Candidates should be physically healthy and prepared to operate in field conditions.
Official international travel advisory platforms provide health and security advice for travelers.
Minimum Requirements for Boatman Assistant Jobs in Colombia with UNHCR:
Education
- There is no prerequisite for a formal degree.
Mandatory Qualifications
- River navigation registration that is valid
Work Experience
- A minimum of one year of uninterrupted experience in river navigation
Language
- Required: Spanish
- Desirable: English
Desirable Competencies:
Candidates who possess the subsequent qualifications will be at an advantage:
- Understanding of the various types of river boats and the necessary safety apparatus
- Experience in navigation with international organizations or UN agencies
- Experience in the navigation of rivers in Putumayo and Caquetá
- Familiarity with the Riverfront Communities of the Region
Benefits of Boatman Assistant Jobs in Colombia with UNHCR:
- Meaningful Humanitarian Impact
Every river mission helps protection teams reach displaced families in remote communities. Your daily work directly supports life saving assistance and long term protection efforts. - Competitive Monthly Salary
Earn between COP 2800000 and COP 4200000 per month, aligned with the standards of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Colombia. Compensation reflects experience and operational responsibility. - International Work Environment
Work alongside global humanitarian professionals and partners. This exposure strengthens your professional profile and expands your career opportunities. - Valuable Field Experience
Gain hands on experience operating in complex humanitarian settings. Field assignments build resilience, decision making skills, and operational discipline. - Job Stability with a Respected Organization
Being part of a recognized UN agency enhances your credibility. It also provides structured performance standards and clear operational protocols. - Professional Skill Development
Improve technical navigation skills, emergency response readiness, and safety compliance. Continuous learning happens naturally in dynamic river missions. - Strong Safety Framework
Missions follow strict safety and accident prevention protocols. This ensures you operate within clear guidelines even in challenging environments. - Community Connection
Engage directly with Indigenous groups, Afro Colombian communities, and displaced populations. The role allows you to witness the real impact of humanitarian outreach. - Team Based Work Culture
Collaborate with protection officers, logistics teams, and field associates. Team coordination strengthens communication and leadership abilities. - Purpose Driven Career Path
This is more than transport work. It is an opportunity to turn river navigation expertise into meaningful service that supports vulnerable people across Putumayo and Caquetá.
Who Should Apply for Boatman Assistant Jobs in Colombia with UNHCR?
This opportunity is optimal for:
- River boat operators with extensive experience in search of mission-driven employment
- Professionals who are acquainted with the waterways of Putumayo and Caquetá
- Individuals who are dedicated to the preservation of community safety and humanitarian principles
- Candidates who are at ease in dynamic, field-based environments
How to Apply for Boatman Assistant Jobs in Colombia with UNHCR?
Southern Colombia’s humanitarian access is significantly reliant on river transportation. Boats are frequently the sole means of accessing displaced families and communities that are at risk of protection in remote and border regions.
This role directly supports humanitarian operations by guaranteeing the safe, efficient, and uninterrupted operation of missions. So apply immediately for the role by clicking the following link:
Conclusion:
The Boatman Assistant Job in Mocoa with UNHCR 2026 offers a full time, field based opportunity for experienced river navigators ready to serve vulnerable communities. With competitive salary in Colombian Pesos and direct involvement in humanitarian missions across Putumayo and Caquetá, this role combines skill with purpose. If you are licensed, experienced, and committed to safe river operations, this position allows you to turn navigation expertise into life changing impact.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the working conditions like?
The role involves operating boats in remote and sometimes challenging environments. Candidates must be physically fit, safety conscious, and comfortable working outdoors for extended periods.
Does this role involve working with vulnerable communities?
Yes. The position directly supports humanitarian missions aimed at assisting displaced families, Indigenous groups, Afro Colombian communities, and refugees. Your work ensures these populations remain accessible to protection teams.
Are there growth opportunities with UNHCR?
Working with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees provides valuable field experience within the UN system. Strong performance and professional conduct can open doors to future humanitarian assignments.
