National Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to promote social justice and fair labor practices. Established in 1919, the ILO has a mission to ensure that labor standards are upheld globally, contributing to the improvement of working conditions and the promotion of decent work for all. The organization operates in over 180 countries and has a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing labor issues and promoting social protection. The ILO values diversity and inclusivity within its staff and actively encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The National Project Officer will play a crucial role in the 'Strengthening social inclusion and nutrition in Timor-Leste' programme, which is funded by the European Union. This initiative is designed to support the Government of Timor-Leste in achieving its sustainable development goals by enhancing social inclusion and well-being among its citizens. The project focuses on extending contributory social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security to vulnerable workers, particularly those in the informal economy, such as farmers, fishers, domestic workers, and street vendors. The National Project Officer will be responsible for coordinating project activities, engaging with various stakeholders, and ensuring the effective implementation of the project objectives. This role requires a proactive approach to managing relationships with government ministries, UN agencies, and community organizations to facilitate the delivery of services and benefits to those in need. The officer will also be involved in capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving the capabilities of local partners in managing social security schemes.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ensure effective coordination and implementation of project activities, delivering integrated and comprehensive interventions in a timely and efficient manner.
• Coordinate and facilitate the ILO’s engagement with national and sub-national partners, including relevant government ministries, workers’ and employers’ organizations, social partners, academic institutions, the UN, and other stakeholders.
• Provide liaison services with government ministries at national and sub-national levels, ILO constituents, the UN, and other external partners to ensure smooth coordination of activities, including meetings, trainings, advocacy campaigns, seminars, and workshops.
• Facilitate the organization and delivery of meetings, trainings, advocacy campaigns, seminars, and workshops, ensuring effective engagement and participation of stakeholders.
• Collect and compile data and information from project constituents and stakeholders to support planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of activities.
• Assist in reviewing, verifying, and analyzing project work plans, including those of project implementing partners, and related documents to ensure clarity, consistency, and completeness.
• Monitor the progress of project activities, follow up on required documentation, clarify information, and respond to queries regarding clearance and processing to facilitate timely implementation.
• Assist in drafting terms of reference for the implementation of activities such as meetings, trainings, seminars, workshops, and research assignments.
• Prepare information materials, including briefs, background notes, statements, and news articles, to support communication and visibility of project activities. 1
• Contribute to the preparation of project reports (periodic progress reports and final report). 1
• Attend and represent the ILO in relevant coordination meetings and events. 1
• Participate in missions in line with the project implementation plan. 1
• Draft, edit, and translate official correspondence, statements, speeches, and other public information materials into the local language, as needed. 1
• Perform other duties for the ILO office as may be assigned by the Supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a first-level university degree (bachelor’s or equivalent) in sustainable development, economics, management, social sciences, or any other relevant field. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a solid understanding of project management principles and practices, particularly in the context of social protection and development initiatives. Strong analytical skills, effective communication abilities, and a collaborative mindset are essential for success in this role. Candidates should also be adept at working in multicultural environments and possess a commitment to gender-sensitive practices.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a first-level university degree (bachelor’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as sustainable development, economics, management, or social sciences. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of social protection systems and the socio-economic factors affecting vulnerable populations in Timor-Leste.

Experience:
At least one year of professional experience at the national level in project management, implementation, liaison, and coordination activities is required. Familiarity with social protection-related matters and proven experience in working effectively with government ministries, local authorities, and community leaders will be advantageous. Candidates should also have experience in campaign and advocacy work, as well as evaluation processes.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of Tetum and a good knowledge of English is required for this position. Fluency in Portuguese will be considered an advantage, as it will facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of project implementation.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for 12 months, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability and the continuing need for the functions. The recruitment process is open to both internal and external candidates, with specific local recruitment and eligibility criteria for National Officer positions. The ILO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from qualified female candidates and individuals with disabilities. The appointment of an external candidate will typically be made at the first step of the grade, in accordance with existing ILO practices. Candidates must complete an online application form to apply for this position.