Project Assistant – Social Cohesion

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 operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization's mission is to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the needs of migrants and their communities. IOM Ecuador specifically supports the Government of Ecuador in addressing migration challenges and opportunities, emphasizing sustainable, community-based interventions and strong coordination with local governments and stakeholders to promote inclusive development and uphold the rights and dignity of all migrants.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant – Social Cohesion will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation and monitoring of various project activities aimed at enhancing social cohesion among migrants, refugees, and host communities in Ecuador. This position requires a proactive individual who can assist in compiling and presenting data on project topics, monitoring budgets, and ensuring the smooth administrative coordination of project implementation. The Project Assistant will work closely with the Migration and Integration National Officer and the National Project Manager, contributing to the overall success of IOM's initiatives in the region. The role demands strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. The Project Assistant will also be responsible for drafting reports, organizing meetings, and responding to inquiries, making this a dynamic and multifaceted position.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Assistant – Social Cohesion include:

• Assisting in the implementation and monitoring of project activities to ensure they align with IOM's objectives.
• Retrieving, compiling, summarizing, and presenting information and data on specific project topics to support decision-making processes.
• Monitoring project budgets, verifying the availability of funds, obtaining necessary approvals, and updating budget-related information as required.
• Supporting the administrative coordination of project implementation by liaising with various organizational units and external parties to initiate requests and process administrative actions.
• Drafting status reports that identify shortfalls in project delivery and bringing these to the attention of the supervisor for timely resolution.
• Preparing correspondence, reports, briefing notes, graphics, statistical tables, presentations, and other documentation as needed.
• Organizing meetings, workshops, and training sessions to facilitate project activities and stakeholder engagement.
• Responding to general information requests and inquiries, and maintaining organized files and records related to project activities.
• Performing other related duties as assigned by the supervisor to support the overall objectives of the project.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Project Assistant – Social Cohesion 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 liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, United Nations agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
• Familiarity with 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.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess 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 fields from an accredited academic institution. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that candidates have received a quality education that meets international standards.

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 should include liaising with governmental authorities and working with vulnerable populations, particularly migrants and refugees. Candidates with prior experience in international humanitarian organizations or in a multicultural environment will be preferred, as this background will enhance their ability to navigate the complexities of migration issues effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory for this position, both oral and written. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in Spanish, as it is the primary language of operation within IOM Ecuador. Additionally, a working knowledge of English is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international stakeholders and enhance the candidate's ability to engage with IOM's broader network. Proficiency in other languages, particularly French, may also be beneficial given IOM's official languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Ecuador will be considered. The appointment will be contingent upon the candidate's medical fitness for the role, as well as verification of residency, visa, and necessary authorizations by the relevant government authorities. The selection process may be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar roles for a period of 24 months. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with the organization's aims and objectives, including discrimination and harassment. Candidates should be aware that IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system.