Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to encompass over 173 member states and operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization aims to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the needs of migrants and their communities. IOM's mission includes providing assistance to migrants in need, supporting governments in managing migration effectively, and addressing the challenges and opportunities that migration presents.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant position is integral to the implementation of Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programmes, which offer essential support to migrants who wish to return to their home countries but lack the necessary resources. The role involves providing administrative and clerical assistance to ensure the smooth execution of project activities. The Project Assistant will be responsible for compiling and summarizing data on specific project topics, monitoring and updating budget-related information, and facilitating administrative coordination for project implementation. This includes liaising with various organizational units and external parties to initiate requests, obtain clearances, and process administrative actions. The Project Assistant will also draft reports, correspondence, and presentations, support the organization of meetings and workshops, and respond to general inquiries while maintaining organized files and records. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to supporting the organization's mission in assisting returnees.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide general and clerical assistance in the implementation of project activities.
• Retrieve, compile, summarize, and present information/data on specific project topics.
• Assist in monitoring the project budget and updating budget-related information.
• Support administrative coordination for project implementation, including liaising with diverse organizational units or external parties to initiate requests, obtain necessary clearances, and process administrative actions.
• Draft status reports, correspondence, briefing notes, graphics, statistical tables, presentations, and other forms of documentation.
• Support the organization of meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Respond to general information requests and inquiries; set up and maintain files/records.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisors or project leads.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a school diploma with three years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related fields from an accredited academic institution with one year of relevant professional experience. Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, the ability to prepare clear and concise products, and possess strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes either a school diploma with three years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related fields from an accredited institution. The degree must be from a recognized university listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have a solid academic foundation to support their work in migration and humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
The position requires experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national and international institutions, United Nations agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Candidates should have experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or government institutions in a multicultural setting is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate complex environments and understand the challenges faced by diverse populations.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese and English (both oral and written) is required for this position. IOM’s official languages include English, French, and Spanish, and proficiency in these languages may be beneficial. The selection process will specifically evaluate the required language skills, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure candidates can effectively communicate in the necessary languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Brazil will be eligible for consideration. Any offer made to the candidate is contingent upon funding confirmation. The appointment will also be subject to certification of medical fitness, verification of residency, visa, and necessary authorizations by the concerned government, where applicable. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination. IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system.