National Skills Development Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to promote social justice and fair labor standards globally. Established in 1919, the ILO has a mission to ensure that labor rights are upheld and that decent work is accessible to all. The organization operates in over 180 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 3,300 employees. The ILO focuses on various areas including employment, social protection, labor standards, and social dialogue, working to improve working conditions and promote sustainable economic growth.

Job Overview:
The National Skills Development Officer position is crucial for supporting the ILO's expanding interventions under the PROSPECTS program, particularly in the area of skills development and employment in Syria. This role involves aligning training programs with labor market needs to enhance access to decent work for returnees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and local communities. The officer will conduct demand-driven labor market assessments, deliver skills development interventions, and build the capacity of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and trainers. The overarching goal is to improve the quality and relevance of training, promote skills recognition, and strengthen pathways from training to employment in sectors critical for Syria's recovery. The position is based in the ILO office in Damascus and will involve close collaboration with various stakeholders, including government institutions and partner organizations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Skills Development Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: designing, implementing, and reporting on skills development interventions; preparing Terms of Reference (ToRs) and work plans; monitoring the execution of implementation agreements with partners; consolidating progress reports; and updating project work plans and monitoring plans. The officer will follow up with technical officers and counterparts in organizations and ministries to expedite implementation and meet targets. They will monitor the progress of activities, clarify technical information, and ensure timely processing of inputs. Additionally, the officer will support the design and delivery of technical inputs on skills development, participate in training sessions and workshops, maintain cooperation with government institutions, and analyze outcomes of skills interventions. The officer will also prepare technical reports, contribute to project design and fundraising initiatives, and support communication efforts related to skills development activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in fields such as engineering, economics, finance, business administration, or development studies. They should have a solid understanding of the development field, particularly in skills development, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), and active labor market programs. Familiarity with labor market assessment methodologies and competency-based training design is essential. The ability to work effectively with government bodies, the private sector, and international organizations is highly valued.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a first-level university degree in a relevant field such as engineering, economics, finance, business administration, or development studies. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of skills development and labor market dynamics in Syria.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least one year of professional experience at the national level in the TVET sector in Syria. Proven experience in collaborating with government bodies, the private sector, and international organizations will be considered an asset. This experience is vital for effectively navigating the local context and implementing skills development initiatives.

Languages:
Excellent command of Arabic (both written and spoken) is mandatory, along with a very good command of written and spoken English. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration with various stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for two years, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and performance. The entry-level salary for this position is set at 22,983 USD per year. The ILO values diversity and encourages applications from qualified female candidates and individuals with disabilities. The recruitment process for external candidates is subject to specific local recruitment and eligibility criteria. Candidates must complete an online application form, and those facing technical issues can submit their CV and cover letter via email. It is important to note that the ILO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.