Project Assistant (Programme Support)

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 include 173 member states and offices in over 100 countries, making it a key player in the global migration landscape. The organization aims to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, ensuring that the rights and dignity of migrants are respected. IOM's mission includes providing support to migrants in need, facilitating their integration into host communities, and addressing the challenges posed by migration. The organization is committed to fostering international cooperation on migration issues and providing technical assistance to governments in managing migration effectively.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant (Programme Support) will play a crucial role in supporting the administrative and operational aspects of project activities within the Panama Country Office. This position is designed for individuals who are detail-oriented and possess strong organizational skills. The Project Assistant will work under the supervision of the Chief of Mission and the Head of Programmes, collaborating with various units within the Country Office, Regional Office, and Headquarters. The primary responsibilities include providing logistical support for project proposals, assisting in the implementation and monitoring of project activities, and compiling and presenting data on specific project topics. The role requires effective communication and coordination with diverse organizational units and external parties to ensure smooth project execution. The Project Assistant will also be responsible for maintaining accurate project information in the PRIMA system and responding to general inquiries, making this position integral to the success of IOM's initiatives in Panama.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Assistant (Programme Support) include:

• Providing administrative and logistical support in the preparation of concept notes and project proposals.
• Assisting in the implementation and monitoring of project activities, ensuring adherence to timelines and objectives.
• Retrieving, compiling, summarizing, and presenting information/data on specific project topics to facilitate decision-making.
• Supporting administrative coordination of project implementation by liaising with various organizational units and external parties to initiate requests and obtain necessary clearances.
• Processing and following up on administrative actions related to project activities.
• Assisting in drafting status reports, identifying shortfalls in delivery, and bringing them to the attention of the supervisor.
• Collecting and organizing information related to new project ideas or ongoing initiatives as requested.
• Supporting data entry and routine updates in the PRIMA system, ensuring accurate project information is maintained.
• Responding to general information requests and inquiries, setting up and maintaining files/records. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Project Assistant (Programme Support) position include:

• A school diploma with four 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 two years of relevant professional experience.
• Experience in administrative or clerical support, preferably in project or programme assistance.
• Familiarity with the IOM Project cycle is considered an advantage.
• Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable groups is highly desirable.
• Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations, non-governmental organizations, or government institutions in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess either a school diploma with four 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 disciplines from an accredited academic institution. Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have received a recognized and quality education that prepares them for the challenges of the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience if they hold a Bachelor’s degree, or four years of relevant experience if they possess only a school diploma. Experience in administrative or clerical support is essential, with a preference for candidates who have worked in project or programme assistance roles. Additionally, experience working with vulnerable populations such as migrants and refugees is highly valued, as is prior experience with international humanitarian organizations or government institutions in a multi-cultural environment.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Spanish is required for this position, encompassing both oral and written communication skills. Candidates will be evaluated on their proficiency in these languages during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments. While English, French, and Spanish are the official languages of IOM, the ability to communicate effectively in English and Spanish is crucial for the role, given the context of the work in Panama.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Panama will be eligible for consideration. The appointment will be contingent upon certification of the candidate's medical fitness for the role, as well as verification of residency, visa, and any necessary authorizations by the relevant government authorities. It is important to note that any offer made to the candidate is subject to funding confirmation, and the selection process may be utilized to fill similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar positions for a period of 24 months. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including issues such as sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination based on various factors. Furthermore, IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system.