Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization's mission is to ensure the orderly and humane management of migration, to promote international cooperation on migration issues, to assist in the search for practical solutions to migration problems, and to provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in need. IOM Ecuador plays a crucial role in supporting the government and regional actors in addressing migration challenges and opportunities, focusing on comprehensive assistance to migrants, refugees, and host communities.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant position at IOM Ecuador involves supporting the implementation and monitoring of various project activities aimed at addressing migration challenges. The incumbent will work under the general supervision of the Head of Operations and in coordination with the National Project Manager. The role requires the retrieval, compilation, summarization, analysis, and presentation of information related to specific project topics. The Project Assistant will also monitor budgets, verify fund availability, and assist in administrative coordination of project implementation. This includes liaising with diverse organizational units and external parties, drafting reports and correspondence, and organizing meetings and training sessions. The position emphasizes collaboration with local authorities, partners, and stakeholders to ensure effective project delivery and compliance with IOM's standards.

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

• Assisting in the implementation and monitoring of project activities.
• Retrieving, compiling, summarizing, analyzing, and presenting information/data on specific project topics.
• Monitoring project budgets, verifying fund availability, and updating budget-related information.
• Supporting the identification of vacancies and occupational profiles with chambers and companies, including coordinating calls for applications and participant selection.
• Acting as a focal point for administrative coordination, involving extensive liaison with various organizational units and external parties.
• Drafting status reports and correspondence on project issues, preparing and updating reports, briefing notes, and other documentation.
• Responding to complex information requests and inquiries, maintaining files/records, and organizing meetings and training sessions.
• Participating in meetings and conferences, assisting in coordinating implementation activities with local authorities and stakeholders.
• Monitoring compliance with project standards and reporting non-compliances to the supervisor. 1
• Providing guidance and training to new or junior staff. 1
• Supporting the EDF Coordinator in liaising with ministries and local governments to ensure regulatory compliance. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Project Assistant position include:

• A school diploma with five 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 three years of relevant professional experience.
• Experience in liaising with governmental authorities, national/international institutions, and NGOs.
• Experience working with migrants, refugees, and vulnerable groups.
• Prior experience with international humanitarian organizations or in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage.
• Knowledge of procurement/donor regulations and financial control is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess either a school diploma with five 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, or Law from an accredited institution. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant professional experience if they hold a Bachelor’s degree, or five years if they have a school diploma. Experience should include working with governmental authorities, international institutions, and NGOs, particularly in contexts involving migrants and refugees. Experience in economic inclusion, MSME banking, funds management, or international cooperation is desirable, as is prior experience in grant making.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is required for this position, both oral and written. IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish, and proficiency in these languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Ecuador will be considered. The appointment will be contingent upon certification of medical fitness, verification of residency, and necessary government authorizations. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its objectives, including discrimination and harassment. Candidates are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet all ideal skills. The selection process may also be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar positions for 24 months.