Programme Support Officer

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 offices in over 100 countries, working to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified. The organization collaborates with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities of migration, providing services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. IOM's mission is to help ensure that migration benefits both migrants and society, and it works to provide solutions to the complex challenges posed by migration, including humanitarian emergencies, climate change, and environmental degradation.

Job Overview:
The Programme Support Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation and administration of projects related to migration, environment, climate change, and risk reduction. This position involves working closely with the Programme Manager and National Programme Officer to ensure that project activities are executed effectively and efficiently. The incumbent will be responsible for monitoring and evaluating project progress, compiling and analyzing data, and preparing reports that highlight key issues and developments in the field of migration management. The role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to liaise with various stakeholders, and a commitment to improving the living conditions of vulnerable communities affected by migration and environmental challenges. The Programme Support Officer will also assist in drafting project documents, coordinating meetings, and providing guidance to junior staff, ensuring that all project activities align with IOM's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the implementation and monitoring of programme activities related to migration, environment, climate change, and risk reduction.
• Retrieve, compile, analyze, and present information/data on specific project topics, national and international developments, and relevant legislation.
• Monitor project budgets, verify fund availability, and prepare necessary reports.
• Act as the focal point for administrative coordination, liaising with various organizational units and external parties.
• Draft status reports, identifying delivery shortfalls and suggesting remedial actions.
• Prepare and update reports, briefing notes, graphics, and other documentation.
• Respond to complex information requests and inquiries, maintaining organized files and records.
• Organize meetings, workshops, and training sessions, and participate in conferences.
• Assist in coordinating activities with local authorities, partners, and stakeholders. 1
• Monitor the work of implementing partners and report on compliance issues. 1
• Provide administrative and logistical support for activities related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. 1
• Support the preparation of project documents, including proposals and concept notes. 1
• Provide guidance and training to new or junior staff. 1
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Climate Change, Disaster Risk Reduction, Environmental Studies, Migration Studies, or related fields from an accredited institution, with three years of professional experience in a related field; or a high school diploma with five years of professional experience.
• Experience in providing administrative and operational support in project implementation.
• Previous experience in projects related to climate change or disaster risk reduction, particularly involving vulnerable groups such as migrants and refugees.
• Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or government institutions in a multicultural setting is an advantage.
• Basic knowledge of climate change, risk reduction, and migration issues.
• Proficiency in project management tools for administrative and reporting purposes.
• Strong coordination and report-preparation skills, including document drafting and formatting.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Climate Change, Disaster Risk Reduction, Environmental Studies, or Migration Studies from an accredited academic institution. Alternatively, candidates with a high school diploma must have five years of professional experience in a related field. It is important that the educational qualifications are from accredited universities recognized in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in a relevant field for candidates with a Bachelor’s degree, or five years for those with a high school diploma. Experience should include providing administrative and operational support in project activities, particularly those related to climate change, disaster risk reduction, and working with vulnerable populations such as migrants and refugees. Previous experience with international humanitarian organizations or government institutions in a multicultural environment is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for all applicants. Additionally, a working knowledge of Sinhala and Tamil is highly advantageous. IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish, and proficiency in these languages may be evaluated during the selection process through 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 Sri Lanka will be considered. 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. Any offer made is contingent upon funding confirmation, and candidates must be medically fit for appointment. IOM adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its objectives, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.