Introduction
Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations and the leading UN agency in the field of migration. Working closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners, IOM promotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It saves lives and protects people on the move, drives solutions to displacement, and facilitates pathways for regular migration, while providing services and advice to governments and migrants.
IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. By creating such an environment, IOM aims to better harness the full potential of migration and strengthen its support to people on the move.
Organizational Context and Scope
Under the overall guidance of the Chief of Mission in Sri Lanka and the direct supervision of the National Programme Officer of the Labour Mobility and Social Inclusion (LMI) Unit, the Project Assistant is responsible for supporting the implementation of projects under the LMI Unit.
- Assist in the implementation and monitoring of project activities.
- Retrieve, compile, summarise, and present information/data on specific project topics.
- Monitor budget by verifying availability of funds, obtaining necessary approval and updating budget-related information.
- Support administrative coordination of project implementation, involving liaison with diverse organisational units and external parties to initiate requests, obtain necessary clearances, process and follow-up on administrative actions, etc.
- Draft status reports, identify shortfalls in delivery and bringing them to the attention of supervisor.
- Draft correspondence, reports, briefing notes, graphics, statistical tables, presentations and other forms of documentation.
- Organise meetings, workshops and training sessions.
- Respond to general information requests and inquiries. Set up and maintain files/records.
- Perform such other relevant duties as maybe assigned.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in political or social sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law or a related field from an accredited academic institution with two years of relevant professional experience; or,
- High School diploma with four years of relevant professional experience.
Experience
- Experience working on projects related to labour migration, skills development, ethical recruitment practices and social development;
- Experience in project implementation and organizing and facilitating meetings, workshops, trainings and events;
- Experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, United Nations agencies and non-governmental organisations;
- Experience in working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking and other vulnerable groups; and,
- Prior work experience with international humanitarian organisations, non-government or government institutions/organisation in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage.
Skills
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Good administrative and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, maintain records, and meet deadlines.
- Strong coordination skills, with the ability to work effectively with colleagues and stakeholders at different levels.
- Ability to prepare and format official correspondence, meeting minutes, reports, presentations, and other project-related documents.
- Strong familiarity with project management methodologies and best practices in the development/migration sector
Languages
IOM’s official languages are English, French, and Spanish.
REQUIRED
For this position, fluency in English and Sinhala / Tamil is required.
DESIRABLE
Fluency in all three languages is advantageous.
Required Competencies
Notes
Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation.
This selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible to be appointed in a similar position for a period of 24 months.
Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, security clearances.
IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities.
IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training or other fee). IOM does not request any information related to bank accounts.
No late applications will be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.